Mikey: I think you misunderstood when you heard that you had dirty magnets. My guess is that you were actually told you had a few loose screws. On the differential you will find a cover that conceals the differential-lock mechanism. Inside is a gear that rides on threads that actuates the diff-lock, and it's not uncommon for this gear to get out of alignment. You may need to shift the gear back into position where it can make connection to the threads. If you do find some dirty magnets, I would wash them with soapy water and put them back on the refrigerator.
Ask: I recently purchased a 2002 Honda 400EX. I didn't realize it until I got home, but it had a major oil leak. After further inspection I found it was coming from a threaded hole on the back right of the motor. I was told that on some quads this was where the timing chain-tensioner bolt went, but the 400EX doesn't have one. I heard I should just plug up the hole with a very short bolt. How accurate is this information?
Mikey: True, that hole is where some bikes have a timing tensioner bolt, but only the ones that don't leak oil! When you say the 400EX doesn't have a timing tensioner bolt, you should really be saying that your particular 400EX doesn't have a timing tensioner bolt. And yes, this is why your 400EX is leaking oil. You're in need of a 6X16 flange washer and a 6X6 pan screw. These will cost you a grand total of about five bucks from Honda. I bet the guy who sold you the 400EX would give you a great deal on the very parts you need. LMAO!
Ask: Hi Mikey! I have a 1995 Kawasaki Bayou. I have taken care of it but now suddenly it will hardly go. The shifter shifts, but when I take off, the rpm increase? and I'm not getting any speed. I can hit third gear with little speed, but the rpm are there. The engine is running great! Thanks for any help.
Mikey: If you haven't figured out the problem, I wouldn't even begin to suggest that you try making the repair yourself! You should solicit the help of a friend or neighbor with basic mechanical skills and have him install a new clutch for you. I recommend that you stick with the parts purchase and provide a pizza and case of beer for your mechanically inclined friend.