At a cross roads

[Kartorbust]

Couple years back as some of you may recall, I purchased Badland Buggy plans, specifically the ST2-NG plans. Around the same time frame, I got (shafted) on a 1970s Arctic Cat Panther 5000, with a 500cc Suzuki Spirit engine. Seller said he had it running, but after seeing it in person, I call BS (wiring was shot for the kill switch, ignition switch), air box was filled with debris from rodents. Engine has a single carb (Mikuni, size can't recall) that feeds both cylinders. Engine is fan cooled 2 stroke that uses mixed and not oil injection.

With it being a circa 1979, parts are scarce, Dennis Kirk still has some parts for the engine. At this point, I'm not sure where to go with this. Do I get a different engine that is newer/has aftermarket support or do I do my best and get the current one up and running? Almost contemplating just getting a different engine such as a motorcycle or dual sport, just for electric start. Possibly a Ninja 250R or some other bike.

 

[Denny]

I my self would ditch the sled engine idea. Yea, it would have been quick. But it also would have been unreliable. Go with the 4 stroke bike engine idea with good parts support. You’ll end up happier in the long run.

 

[FlyFrog]

i say get it going and keep it, theres only so many older engines left.
EDIT:I always try to get the old engines going i see by peoples trash or sitting in peoples yards, i walk up and ask if they mind if i work on it and try to get it running, half the time i dont even keep them i just like working on them and seeing old things going again.

 

[Functional Artist]

I my self would ditch the sled engine idea. Yea, it would have been quick. But it also would have been unreliable. Go with the 4 stroke bike engine idea with good parts support. You’ll end up happier in the long run.

Yea, what he said