I am new to ATVs and recently bought my first machine. I wanted something cheap (as in not expensive), reliable and easy to work on when it did break down. I saw so much love in these forums for old TRX300FW’s that I decided to get one. Mine is a 1998 in Red. The seller advertised the bike as having "no issues", but on closer inspection the front brakes were shot, the rear brake pedal was snapped off, one of the front wheel bearings was in desperate need of replacement and it only had one working headlight. I bought it anyway.
Apparently the "rear end has been replaced", but it is hard to know what that means since the seller didn’t seem to be up on his maintenance. It apparently also has new rear brakes, though I won’t know that until I get them working again!
The wheel bearing I have already sorted out, and the front brakes are in such bad shape that I have ordered the disc conversion kit rather than try to refurbish the drums. I found a used rear brake pedal which I just haven’t had time to swap out yet, but what I am seeking some advice on is another matter.
I took the bike for a first ride yesterday (5kms or so through some moderate trails) once I got the front wheel bearing sorted, and towards the end of the ride I burned my foot on something that I didn’t think should get so hot. And I mean literally burned. It was hotter than the motor itself.
Any insights on this? I am not 100% sure what the part is (pic attached). I know it is part of the drive shaft linkage, but am not sure where it gets its lubrication from. I worry that it is either low on fluid, or running the wrong fluid at the moment to manage heat appropriately.
