1977 JD Cyclone 440

[though]

Not sure what to do here, yes I do but let me explain. I am new to this board by the way. Live in SW Iowa all my life, had sleds when I was a kid, JDX6 and a SkiRoule. Anyway, bought this for not much and the previous owner says "no compression" so we will test. I am sure you guys can tell me whether its worth a rebuild. Body isn't bad, track looks decent, just need to get into the engine. It doesn't look too bad to work on, everyone so far says put a new engine in it and move on but I need to check this one first. Cosmetically windshield, new seat, front head light, some touch up stuff but it would work for me, I love the look of these machines. Thoughts?

[AirborneX4Special]

It's not bad. Needs a proper rear lift handle and I bet the bumper could be straightened. Paint isn't horrible either. How's the track?

[though]

Hey!
Sorry for delay, zonked out last night, got a inch of snow I see!
Track looks pretty good really. I gotta get it up this weekend and really look.
Thanks for response bro!

[Liquifire 4/6]

Looks like a great starting point for a restoration or a custom. look for a decent used bumper though because they are not real easy to properly straighten. If the engine is beyond fixing, you can do all sorts of things because there's a fair bit of room in the engine bay. I planted a 1999 Polaris Indy Trail 488 engine into my 78 Cyclone a couple years ago. Runs great and the oil injection is sure convenient. It wasn't an easy installation but it wasn't terribly complicated either. Have fun with your project and keep the pictures coming as you progress.

[though]

Thanks - great information! That’s very helpful and I was hoping for responses!

I see so much online but to get real hands on experience to me is key!

[JDMIKE8100]

I am working on the same sled also.Take your time,collect all the parts you need and get everything to function properly.
I like to keep them original as possible.This is the toughest,most reliable sled Deere made,Fun to drive,Enjoy the project.

[though]

Thanks man! Good stuff!

[though]

Looking like I need a motor, I could piece part but I rather drop one in and move on. Any ideas here on where to find?

[though]

I found a 79 JOHN DEERE 440 TRAILFIRE kawasaki ta440a-c202 engine motor crankcase cylinder on eBay can I make this work guys? Sorry I am dumb!

[Liquifire 4/6]

I think that would be quite easy to install. Just make certain you get the complete engine with carburetor. And you’ll want to use a proper Trailfire pipe as wee

[though]

I pulled motor today, not sure if I do a rebuild or the motor I was talking about, wasn’t bad getting out.

[400brian]

You say "no compression". On one side, or none at all?

Pistons are available for these last I knew, standard and oversize. So it all depends on what went on inside the engine, as to how to proceed.

I have never really had a problem with spending money on these old sleds, but then the only vices I have are Mountain Dew and my Wife!

How many miles showing on the sled?

Unless something catastrophic went on inside the engine, I would have the crank freshened up, bore the jugs, and drop in some fresh pistons.

But remember, I hang out with a bunch of nutcases that ride the hell out of these things!

[though]

Good stuff - wow, thanks

I will take a look and get back to you on compression and miles etc

[though]

Rings are gone, powdered steel everywhere, too much to rebuild this engine in my opinion. Back to my original thought, find a engine!

[400brian]

Yeah, that looks pretty rough.

If it were me, I would be looking for a 340/22 or another 440/22 replacement. Everything would drop in with no mods needed.

I am personally not a fan of the Kawis, but that is me.