I was looking at buying a 1996 cougar 550 and wanted to know if it was a good sled?

Yes it is a good sled. We had one for awile, and loved it. They are very reliable, and pretty quick too. I would reccommend going to plastic skis on it though. Factory cat style work great. I can't remember haveing to do any major repairs on the sled just basic maintenance. I was looking for one before I settled on the ski-doo I just got. They are a rare find people don't like to give them up.

My sister-in-law has over 10,000 original miles on her 1996 cougar 550 :D

My firend got 1 last year beginning of season.Was the best sled he ever had .He didn't have 1 problem with it

I have been riding a '96 Cougar that I bought in '97. No problems at all.I did change out driveshaft bearings at 4500 miles as preventative maintenance,although when I got them out they felt like new.Quick sled for 80hp,as you know though, you will get left behind by the newer 500 and bigger sleds on the lakes.I bet in the woods you can stay on others tails.Watch the water pump seal,I have heard of some leaking out the weep hole.I believe more irritating than a problem.Maybe others can give input on that.I have around 5500 miles on the sled now.

My wife has a 97 550-

Same thing- general maintenence, no roach downs or major work. Very reliable. In fact, that's what she always says to me when I buy aftermarket upgrades for my sled.

"You're going to blow it up" "My sled has never broken down"

Damn women!

D

I had a '96 Cougar from new. You won't find a more practical, reliable or consistanly strong sled as a Cougar. They ain't slow or hard on the eyes either. A suggestion though... if you seek out a '98 Cougar instead you'll also get hydraulic brakes, plastic skis and Extra Travel Tunnel. Good Luck!

P.S. I presently own a '98 Cougar DLX 2-up that wifey rides. BULLETPROOF

Great machine but I would recomend looking for a 1997. they introduced the Extra Travel Tunnel in 97' and you will see a big difference in ride quality when it gets bumpy.... all in all thought the 550 motor is great... but take it from me... keep it serviced or pay for the maint when it breaks