Polaris 500 H.O. - Manual

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Features and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41Emis...

4 INTRODUCTION The following signal words and symbols appear throughout this manual and on your vehicle. Your safety is involved when these words and sym-bols are used. Become familiar with their meanings before reading the manual. The safety alert symbol indicates a potential personal injury hazard...

5 INTRODUCTION Failure to heed the warnings and safety precautions contained in this manual can result in severe injury or death. A POLARIS ATV is not a toy and can be hazardous to operate. This vehicle handles differently than other vehicles, such as motorcycles and cars. A collision or rollover ca...

6 INTRODUCTION Vehicle Identification Numbers Record your vehicle's identification numbers and key number in the spaces provided. Remove the spare key and store it in a safe place. An ignition key can be duplicated only by ordering a POLARIS key blank (using your key number) and mating it with one o...

7 SAFETY Safety Training ATV safety training is a top priority for POLARIS. POLARIS strongly encourages you and any family members who will be riding the ATV to take a training course. If you purchased a new POLARIS ATV in the United States, your dealer provided information about the authorized ATV ...

8 SAFETY Safe Riding Gear Always wear appropriate clothing when riding an ATV. Wear protective clothing for comfort and to reduce the chance of injury. Helmet Wearing a helmet can prevent a severe head injury. Whenever riding a POLARIS vehicle, always wear a helmet that meets or exceeds estab-lished...

9 SAFETY Safe Riding Gear Eye Protection Do not depend on eyeglasses or sunglasses for eye protection. When-ever riding a POLARIS vehicle, always wear shatterproof goggles or use a shatterproof helmet face shield. POLARIS recommends wearing approved Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) bearing markin...

10 SAFETY Safety Warnings Failure to operate the ATV properly can result in a collision, loss of control, accident or overturn, which may result in serious injury or death. Heed all safety warnings outlined in this section of the owner’s manual. See the OPERATION section of the owner’s manual for pr...

11 SAFETY Safety Warnings Handling Gasoline Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive under certain conditions. • Always exercise extreme caution whenever handling gasoline.• Always refuel with the engine stopped, and outdoors or in a well ventilated area. • Do not smoke or allow open flames or spa...

12 SAFETY Safety Warnings Protective Apparel Riding in this vehicle without wearing an approved helmet and protective eyewear increases the risk of a serious injuries in the event of an accident.Operator and passenger must always wear an approved helmet that fits properly and eye protection (goggles...

13 SAFETY Safety Warnings Operating on Pavement Operating an ATV on paved surfaces (including sidewalks, paths, parking lots and driveways) may adversely affect the handling of the ATV and could result in loss of control and accident or overturn.Avoid operating the ATV on pavement. ATV tires are des...

14 SAFETY Safety Warnings Physical Control of the ATV Removing a hand from the handlebars or feet from the footrests during operation can reduce your ability to control the vehicle or cause loss of balance and ejection from the ATV. If the operator's foot is not firmly planted on the footrest, it co...

15 SAFETY Safety Warnings Descending Hills Improperly Improperly descending a hill could cause loss of control or overturn.• Always follow proper procedures for travel- ing down hills as described in the owner's manual. NOTE: A special technique is required when braking while traveling down-hill. Se...

16 SAFETY Safety Warnings Stalling While Climbing a Hill Stalling, rolling backwards or improperly dismounting while climbing a hill could cause an overturn.• Always maintain a steady speed when climbing a hill. If all forward speed is lost:• Keep body weight uphill.• Apply the brakes.• Lock the par...

17 SAFETY Safety Warnings Operating on Slippery Terrain Failure to use extra caution when operating on excessively rough, slippery or loose terrain could cause loss of traction, loss of control, accident or overturn.Do not operate on excessively rough, slippery or loose terrain. Always use extra cau...

18 SAFETY Safety Warnings Operating Improperly in Reverse Improperly operating in reverse could result in a collision with an obstacle or person. Always follow proper operating procedures as outlined in this manual. See page 57. Before shifting into reverse gear, always check for obstacles or people...

19 SAFETY Safety Warnings Operating Through Deep Water Operating the ATV through deep or fast-flowing water could cause the tires to float, causing loss of control or overturn.Avoid operating the ATV through deep or fast-flowing water. If it's unavoidable to enter water that exceeds the recommended ...

21 SAFETY Safety Decals and Locations Warning labels have been placed on the vehicle for your protection. Read and follow the instructions on each label carefully. If any of the labels shown in this manual differ from the labels on your vehicle, always read and follow the instructions of the labels ...

22 SAFETY Safety Decals and Locations Discretionary Warning WARNING • Never operate this ATV on HILLS steeper than 25 degrees 25°. To pre- vent overturn on hilly terrain, use throttle and brakes gradually, and shift weight uphill. • REVERSE operation can be dangerous even at low speeds. Steering bec...

23 SAFETY Safety Decals and Locations Clutch Cover Warning WARNING • Moving parts hazard under belt-clutch guard. To prevent serious injury, do not operate vehicle with guard removed. • Do not modify engine or clutch. Doing so can cause part failure, possible imbalance, and excessive engine RPM, whi...

24 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Switches Mode/Reverse Override Switch This vehicle is equipped with a reverse speed limiter system. To gain additional wheel speed while backing, release the throttle and depress the override button. WARNING! Pressing the override button while the throttle is open can cause ...

25 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Switches Engine Stop Switch Move the stop switch either left or right to the OFF position to stop the engine quickly. The engine will not start or run when the switch is off. Both the main switch and the engine stop switch will shut off all electri-cal power to the vehicle, ...

26 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Throttle Lever Operating an ATV with sticking or improperly operating throttle controls could cause an accident. Never start or operate an ATV that has a sticking or improperly operating throttle. Always contact your dealer for service before operating the vehicle. Failure t...

27 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Brake Lever Operating the ATV with a spongy brake lever can result in loss of braking, which could cause an accident. Never operate the ATV with a spongy-feeling brake lever. Always contact your dealer for service before operating the vehicle. Squeeze the brake lever toward ...

28 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Master Cylinder/Brake Fluid An over-full master cylinder may cause brake drag or brake lock-up, which could result in an accident. Maintain brake fluid at the recommended level. Do not overfill. Never store or use a partial bottle of brake fluid. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, ...

29 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Parking Brake Locking the Parking Brake 1. Place the transmission in PARK. 2. Squeeze and release the brake lever two or three times, then squeeze and hold. 3. Push the parking brake lock forward to engage the lock. 4. Release the brake lever. 5. To release the parking brake...

30 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Auxiliary Foot Brake Never back down a hill. Applying the auxiliary brake when backing down a hill may cause rear tipover, which could result in serious injury or death. Use caution when applying the auxiliary brake. Do not aggressively apply the auxiliary brake when going f...

31 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Fuel Valve The fuel valve is located in the left front wheel well. OFF: For vehicle storage and when transporting. ON: For normal operation. Choke The choke assists in starting a cold engine. Refer to the engine starting procedure on page 46 for correct choke and throttle se...

32 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Automatic Transmission Gear Selector The transmission gear selector is located on the right side of the vehicle. H: High GearL: Low GearN: NeutralR: ReverseP: Park To shift gears, brake to a com-plete stop. When the engine is idling, move the lever to the desired gear. NOTIC...

33 FEATURES AND CONTROLS All Wheel Drive (AWD) System The All Wheel Drive system is controlled by the AWD switch. When the switch is on 2X4, the ATV is in two-wheel drive at all times. When the switch is on AWD, the ATV is in all wheel drive and the AWD indicator light in the instrument cluster will...

34 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Your ATV is equipped with an instrument cluster that senses vehicle speed from the right front wheel. In addition to showing vehicle speed, the speedometer needle flashes when a warning condition exists. The instrument cluster measures distance in miles as...

35 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center The rider information center is located in the instrument cluster. All seg-ments will light up for 2.5 seconds at start-up. If the instrument cluster fails to illuminate, a battery over-voltage may have occurred and the instrument ...

36 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center Standard Modes Use the MODE button to toggle through the mode options. The reverse override button is also the MODE button. See page 24. The transmission cannot be in reverse when using this feature. Odometer Mode The odometer reco...

37 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center Diagnostic Mode The wrench icon will display when the gauge is in the diagnostic mode. To exit the diagnostic mode, turn the key switch off and on. Any move-ment of the tires will also cause the gauge to exit the diagnostic mode. T...

38 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center Diagnostic Mode Battery Voltage Screen View this screen to check battery voltage level. Tachometer Screen View the tachometer to check engine speed. AWD Diagnostic Screen The gauge indicates whether or not current is flowing throug...

39 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center Diagnostic Mode Programmable service interval To enable or disable the service interval: 1. Enter the diagnostic mode. 2. Toggle to the service interval screen. 3. Press and hold the mode button for about 7 seconds, until either ON...

40 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center Diagnostic Mode Miles/Kilometers toggle The display in the tripmeter and odometer can be changed to display either standard or metric units of measurement. 1. Enter the diagnostic mode. 2. Toggle to the screen that displays either ...

41 OPERATION Failure to operate the ATV properly can result in a collision, loss of control, accident or overturn, which may result in serious injury or death. Read and understand all safety warnings outlined in the safety section of this owner’s manual. Break-In Period The break-in period for your ...

42 OPERATION Break-In Period Engine and Drivetrain Break-in 1. Fill the fuel tank with gasoline. See page 31. Always exercise extreme caution whenever handling gasoline. 2. Check the oil level on the dipstick. See page 69. Add oil if neces- sary to maintain the level between the safe and add marks. ...

43 OPERATION Safe Operation Practices 1. Complete the recommended safety training before operating this vehicle. See page 7. 2. Do not allow anyone under 16 years of age to operate this vehicle. Do not allow anyone with cognitive or physical disabilities to oper-ate this vehicle. 3. Never carry a pa...

44 OPERATION Know Your Riding Area/Tread Lightly Familiarize yourself with all laws and regulations concerning the opera-tion of this off-road vehicle in your area. Respect the environment in which you ride. Find out where the designated riding areas are by con-tacting your POLARIS dealer, a local r...

45 OPERATION Pre-Ride Checklist Failure to inspect and verify that the ATV is in safe operating condition before operating increases the risk of an accident. Always inspect the ATV before each use to make sure it's in safe operating condition. Item Remarks Page Brake system/lever travel Ensure prope...

46 OPERATION Starting the Engine 1. Position the vehicle on a level surface outdoors or in a well-venti- lated area. 2. Place the transmission in PARK. 3. Lock the parking brake. Tip: The starter interlock will prevent the engine from starting if the transmission is in gear and the brake is not enga...

47 OPERATION Starting the Engine 11. Turn the ignition key past the ON position to engage the starter. Activate the starter for a maximum of five seconds, releasing the key when the engine starts. NOTICE: Operating the vehicle immediately after starting could cause engine damage. Allow the engine to...

48 OPERATION Driving Procedures 1. Wear a helmet and eye protection. See page 8. 2. Sit upright with both feet on the footrests and both hands on the handlebars. 3. Start the engine and allow it to warm up. 4. Shift the transmission into gear. 5. Check your surroundings and determine your path of tr...

49 OPERATION Turning the Vehicle Your ATV is equipped with a solid rear axle, which drives both rear wheels equally at all times. This means that the wheel on the outside of the turn must travel a greater distance than the inside wheel when turning and the inside tire must slip traction slightly. To...

50 OPERATION Driving on Slippery Surfaces Whenever riding on slippery surfaces such as wet trails or loose gravel, or during freezing weather, follow these precautions: 1. Do not operate on excessively rough, slippery or loose terrain. 2. Slow down when entering slippery areas. 3. Engage AWD before ...

51 OPERATION Driving Uphill Braking and handling are greatly affected when operating in hilly ter-rain. Improper procedure could cause loss of control or overturn. When-ever traveling uphill, follow these precautions: 1. Drive straight uphill. 2. Avoid steep hills (25° maximum). 3. Always check the ...

52 OPERATION Driving on a Sidehill (Sidehilling) Driving on a sidehill is not recommended. Improper procedure could cause loss of control or overturn. Avoid crossing the side of any hill unless absolutely necessary. If crossing a sidehill is unavoidable , follow these precautions: 1. Slow down. 2. A...

53 OPERATION Driving Downhill When driving downhill, follow these precautions: 1. Avoid steep hills (25° maximum). 2. Shift body weight uphill. 3. Drive straight downhill. 4. Slow down. Excessive speed when traveling downhill can cause loss of control. 5. Squeeze the brake lever gradually. Applying ...

54 OPERATION Turning Around on a Hill (K-Turn) If the vehicle stalls while climbing a hill, never back it down the hill! Use the K-turn to turn around. 1. Stop and lock the parking brake while keeping body weight uphill. 2. Leave the transmission in forward and shut off the engine. 3. Dismount on th...

55 OPERATION Driving Through Water Your ATV can operate through water with a maximum recom-mended depth equal to the bot-tom of the footrests. Follow these procedures when operat-ing through water: 1. Determine water depths and current before entering water. 2. Choose a crossing where both banks hav...

56 OPERATION Driving Over Obstacles Follow these precautions when operating over obstacles: 1. Always check for obstacles before operating in a new area. 2. Look ahead and learn to read the terrain. Be constantly alert for haz- ards such as logs, rocks and low hanging branches. 3. Travel slowly and ...

57 OPERATION Driving in Reverse Follow these precautions when operating in reverse: 1. Always check for obstacles or people behind the vehicle. 2. Always avoid backing downhill. 3. Back slowly. 4. Apply the brakes lightly for stopping. 5. Avoid turning at sharp angles. 6. Never open the throttle sud...

58 OPERATION Hauling Cargo Overloading the vehicle or carrying or towing cargo improperly can alter vehicle handling and may cause loss of control or brake instability, which can result in serious injury or death. Always follow these precautions when hauling cargo:REDUCE SPEED AND ALLOW GREATER DIST...

59 OPERATION Hauling Cargo Never exceed the weight capaci-ties specified for your ATV on warning labels and in the speci-fications section of this manual. Cargo weight should be evenly distributed (1/3 on the front rack and 2/3 on the rear rack) and mounted as low as possible. NEVER exceed 50 MPH (8...

60 OPERATION Parking on an Incline Avoid parking on an incline if possible. If it's unavoidable, follow these precautions: 1. Stop the engine. 2. Place the transmission in PARK. 3. Lock the parking brake. 4. Always block the rear wheels on the downhill side. 5. Turn the fuel valve off.

61 EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS Noise Emission Control System Do not modify the engine, intake or exhaust components, as doing so may affect compli-ance with U.S.A. EPA noise control requirements (40 CFR 205) and local noise level requirements. Operation on Public Lands in the U.S.A. Your POLARIS vehicl...

62 MAINTENANCE Periodic Maintenance Chart Careful periodic maintenance will help keep your vehicle in the safest, most reliable condition. Inspection, adjustment and lubrication of important components are explained in the periodic maintenance chart. Inspect, clean, lubricate, adjust and replace par...

63 MAINTENANCE Periodic Maintenance Chart Maintenance Chart Key WARNING! Improperly performing the procedures marked with a “D” could result in component failure and lead to serious injury or death. Have an authorized POLARIS dealer perform these services. Symbol Description Perform these operations...

67 MAINTENANCE Lubrication Guide Check and lubricate all components at the intervals outlined in the Peri-odic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 62. Items not listed in the chart should be lubricated at the General Lubrication interval. The a-arms and lower control arms are lubricated at the facto...

68 MAINTENANCE Engine Oil Oil Recommendations Always change the oil filter whenever changing oil. POLARIS recommends the use of POLARIS PS-4 PLUS Performance Synthetic 2W-50 4-cycle oil or a similar oil for this engine. Oil may need to be changed more frequently if POLARIS oil is not used. Always us...

69 MAINTENANCE Engine Oil Oil Level Access the oil dipstick and fill tube from the left side of the ATV. A rising oil level between checks in cool weather driving can indicate contaminants such as gas or mois-ture collecting in the crankcase. If the oil level is over the full/safe mark, change the o...

70 MAINTENANCE Oil and Filter Change Always change the oil and filter at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 62. Always change the oil filter whenever changing oil. 1. Position the vehicle on a level surface. 2. Start the engine. Allow it to idle for two to thr...

71 MAINTENANCE Oil and Filter Change 12. Place shop towels beneath the oil filter. Using an oil filter wrench, turn the filter counter-clockwise to remove it. 13. Using a clean dry cloth, clean the filter sealing surface on the crank-case. 14. Lubricate the o-ring on the new filter with a film of fr...

72 MAINTENANCE Oil and Filter Change Oil Pump Priming This priming procedure must be performed whenever the oil hose connection between the oil tank and pump inlet has been disconnected. 1. Clamp or pinch off the vent line approximately 2" (5 cm) from the oil tank, between the end of the oil tan...

73 MAINTENANCE Transmission Oil Always check and change the transmission oil at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 62. Maintain the oil level at the bottom of the fill plug hole threads. See page 117 for the part numbers of POLARIS products. The fill plug is l...

74 MAINTENANCE Transmission Oil Oil Change 1. Remove the fill plug. 2. Place a drain pan under the gearcase. Remove the drain plug. Allow the oil to drain completely. 3. Clean and reinstall the drain plug. Torque to specification. 4. Add the proper amount of the recommended oil. 5. Reinstall the fil...

75 MAINTENANCE Front Gearcase (Demand Drive) Fluid Fluid Check 1. Position the vehicle on a level surface. Remove the fill plug. Check the fluid level. 2. Add the recommended demand drive fluid as needed to bring the level to the bottom of the fill hole threads. 3. Reinstall the fill plug. Torque to...

76 MAINTENANCE Cooling System The engine coolant level is controlled, or maintained, by the recovery system. The recovery system components are the recovery bottle, the radiator filler neck, the radiator pressure cap and the connecting hose. As coolant operating temperature increases, the expanding ...

77 MAINTENANCE Cooling System Radiator Coolant To ensure that the coolant maintains its ability to protect the engine, POLARIS recommends that you drain the system completely every two years and add a fresh mixture of antifreeze and water. Replace the coolant any time the cooling system has been dra...

78 MAINTENANCE Brakes Hand Brake The front and rear brakes are hydraulic disc brakes, activated by moving the single brake lever toward the handlebar. These brakes are self-adjusting. Under normal operation, the diaphragm extends into the reservoir as fluid level drops. If the fluid level is low and...

79 MAINTENANCE Toe Alignment Use the following procedure to check the toe alignment of the vehicle. The recommended toe alignment is 1/8" to 1/4" (3-6 mm) toe out. WARNING! Severe injury or death can result from improper toe alignment and adjustment. Do not attempt to adjust tie rod alignmen...

80 MAINTENANCE Steering Assembly The steering assembly of the ATV should be checked periodically for loose nuts and bolts. If loose nuts and bolts are found, see your POLARIS dealer for service before operating the vehicle. Side Panel Removal 1. Remove the seat. 2. Grasp the rear of the side panel n...

81 MAINTENANCE Tires Operating your ATV with worn tires, improperly inflated tires, non-standard tires or improperly installed tires will affect vehicle handling and could cause an accident resulting in serious injury or death. Always follow all tire maintenance procedures as outlined in this manual...

82 MAINTENANCE Tires Wheel Installation 1. Place the transmission in PARK. 2. Lock the parking brake. 3. Place the wheel on the hub with the valve stem toward the outside and rotation arrows on the tire pointing toward forward rotation. 4. Install the wheel nuts and finger-tighten them. 5. Lower the...

83 MAINTENANCE Air Filter 1. Remove the seat. 2. Release the air box cover clips, and remove the air box cover. 3. Loosen the clamp and remove the filter. 4. Remove the fabric type pre- filter from the main filter. Wash the pre-filter in soapy water, then rinse and let dry. 5. Reinstall the pre-filt...

84 MAINTENANCE Breather Filter/Hose The breather filter is on the hose that runs between the engine and air box. See illustration above. 1. Remove the left side panel. See page 80. 2. Remove the hose clamps from the filter and pull the filter out of the hoses. 3. Inspect the filter for debris. Blow ...

85 MAINTENANCE Fuse Replacement If the engine stops or will not start, or if you experience other electrical failures, a fuse may need replacement. Locate and correct any short circuits that may have caused the blown fuse, then replace the fuse. Spare fuses are provided in a compartment on the top o...

86 MAINTENANCE Lights Poor lighting can result in reduced visibility when driving. Headlight and taillight lenses become dirty during normal operation. Clean lights frequently and replace burned out lamps promptly. Always make sure lights are adjusted properly for best visibility. Headlight Lamp Rep...

87 MAINTENANCE Lights High Beam Adjustment The headlight beam can be adjusted slightly upward or downward. Use the following procedure to make the adjustment. 1. Position the vehicle on a level surface with the headlight approxi- mately 25 ft. (7.6 m) from a wall. Place the transmission in PARK. 2. ...

88 MAINTENANCE Lights Headlight Housing Replacement 1. Remove the two screws on the lower front corners of the headlight pod. 2. Lift the pod slightly while depressing the tabs at the rear of the pod. 3. Lift the pod cover and disconnect the speedometer harnesses from the speedometer. 4. Unplug the ...

89 MAINTENANCE Lights Lower Headlamp Replacement 1. Turn the back of the headlight harness counter-clockwise and pull the harness assembly away from the headlight assembly. 2. Remove the headlamp and install the new headlamp. 3. Reinstall the harness assembly into the headlight assembly. 4. Turn the...

90 MAINTENANCE Spark Plugs Spark Plug Recommendations Refer to the specifications section beginning on page 118 for the recom-mended spark plug type and gap for your vehicle. Torque spark plugs to specification. NOTICE: Using non-recommended spark plugs can result in serious engine damage. Always us...

91 MAINTENANCE Spark Plugs Spark Plug Inspection Normal Spark Plug The normal insulator tip is gray, tan or light brown. There will be few combustion deposits. The electrodes are not burned or eroded. This indi-cates the proper type and heat range for the engine and the service. The tip should not b...

92 MAINTENANCE Vehicle Immersion If your vehicle becomes immersed, major engine damage can result if the machine is not thoroughly inspected. Take the vehicle to your dealer before starting the engine. If it's impossible to take your ATV to a dealer before starting it, follow the steps outlined belo...

93 MAINTENANCE Spark Arrester Failure to heed the following warnings while servicing the spark arrester could result in serious injury or death. Never run the engine in an enclosed area. Remove any combustible materials from the area. Wear eye protection and leather work gloves. Do not stand behind ...

94 MAINTENANCE PVT System Failure to comply with the instructions in this warning can result in severe injury or death. Do not modify any component of the PVT system. Doing so may reduce its strength so that a failure may occur at a high speed. The PVT system has been precision balanced. Any modific...

96 MAINTENANCE PVT System When To Use Low Range and High Range PVT Drying There may be some instances when water is accidently ingested into the PVT system. Use the following instructions to dry it out before operat-ing. 1. Position the vehicle on a level surface. 2. Remove the drain plug. Allow the...

97 MAINTENANCE Battery Improperly connecting or disconnecting battery cables can result in an explosion and cause serious injury or death. When removing the battery, always disconnect the negative (black) cable first. When reinstalling the battery, always connect the negative (black) cable last. Bat...

98 MAINTENANCE Battery Battery Removal 1. Disconnect the battery hold-down strap. 2. Remove the battery cover (if equipped). 3. On conventional batteries, remove the battery vent tube. 4. Disconnect the black (negative) battery cable first. 5. Disconnect the red (positive) battery cable last. 6. Lif...

99 MAINTENANCE Battery Battery Installation Using a new battery that has not been fully charged can damage the bat-tery and result in a shorter life. It can also hinder vehicle performance. Follow the battery charging instructions on page 101 before installing the battery. 1. Ensure that the battery...

100 MAINTENANCE Battery Battery Storage Whenever the vehicle is not used for a period of three months or more, remove the battery from the vehicle, ensure that it's fully charged, and store it out of the sun in a cool, dry place. Check battery voltage each month during storage and recharge as needed...

101 MAINTENANCE Battery Battery Charging (Conventional Battery) 1. Remove the battery from the vehicle to prevent damage from leak- ing or spilled electrolyte during charging. See page 98. 2. Charge the battery with a charging output no larger than 1/10 of the battery’s amp/hr rating. Charge as need...

102 MAINTENANCE Battery Battery Charging (Sealed Battery) Always verify battery condition before and 1-2 hours after the end of charging. State of Charge Voltage Action Charge Time (Using constant current charger @ standard amps specified on top of battery) 100% 12.8-13.0 volts None, check at 3 mos....

103 MAINTENANCE Camber and Caster The camber and caster are non-adjustable. Rear Spring The rear shock absorber spring is adjusted by rotating the adjuster either clockwise or counter-clockwise to increase or decrease spring tension. Accessory springs are available through your POLARIS dealer. Handl...

104 MAINTENANCE Carburetor Your POLARIS ATV is calibrated at the factory for optimal perfor-mance at altitudes ranging from zero to 6,000 feet (1800 m) and temper-atures of +40 degrees F. (4 degrees C.) or higher. Above 6000 feet (1800 m) the engine air/fuel mixture becomes overly rich and the engin...

105 MAINTENANCE Throttle Cable Freeplay Adjust throttle cable freeplay at the handlebar. 1. Locate the throttle cable adjuster at the handlebar. 2. Squeeze the end of the rub- ber boot and slide it far enough to expose the end of the inline cable adjuster. 3. Loosen the adjuster lock nut. 4. Rotate ...

106 MAINTENANCE Cleaning and Storage Washing the Vehicle Keeping your POLARIS vehicle clean will not only improve its appear-ance but it can also extend the life of various components. NOTICE: High water pressure may damage components. POLARIS recommends washing the vehicle by hand or with a garden ...

107 MAINTENANCE Cleaning and Storage Washing the Vehicle If a high pressure water system is used for cleaning (not recommended), exercise extreme caution. The water may damage components and could remove paint and decals. Avoid directing the water stream at the follow-ing items: • Wheel bearings• Ra...

108 MAINTENANCE Cleaning and Storage Chrome Wheel Care (if equipped) Proper maintenance will protect chrome wheels from corrosion, pre-serve wheel life and ensure a “like new” appearance for many years. Chrome wheels exposed to road salt (or salt in the air in coastal areas) are more susceptible to ...

109 MAINTENANCE Cleaning and Storage Storage Tips NOTICE: Starting the engine during the storage period will disturb the protective film created by fogging and damage could occur. Never start the engine during the storage period. Clean the Exterior Make any necessary repairs and clean the vehicle as...

110 MAINTENANCE Cleaning and Storage Storage Tips Fluid Levels Inspect the fluid levels. Add or change fluids as recommended in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 62.• Demand drive unit (front gearcase)• Rear gearcase (if equipped)• Transmission• Brake fluid (change every two years and...

111 MAINTENANCE Cleaning and Storage Storage Tips Inspect and Lubricate Inspect all cables and lubricate all areas of the vehicle as recommended in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 62. Battery Storage See pages 100-101 for storage and charging procedures. Storage Area/Covers Set the ...

112 MAINTENANCE Transporting the ATV Follow these procedures when transporting the vehicle. 1. Stop the engine. 2. Place the transmission in PARK. 3. Lock the parking brake. 4. Secure the fuel cap, oil cap and seat. 5. Always tie the frame of the ATV to the transporting unit securely with suitable s...

113 TROUBLESHOOTING Drive Belt Wear/Burn Possible Cause Solution Driving onto a pickup or tall trailer in high range Use low range during loading. Starting out going up a steep incline Use low range or turn around using the K-turn (see page 54). Driving at low RPM or ground speed (3-7 MPH) Drive at ...

114 TROUBLESHOOTING Engine Doesn't Turn Over Engine Turns Over, Fails to Start Engine Backfires Possible Cause Solution Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse Reset the breaker/Replace fuse Low battery voltage Recharge the battery to 12.8 VDC Loose battery connections Check all connections and tighte...

115 TROUBLESHOOTING Engine Pings or Knocks Engine Runs Irregularly, Stalls or Misfires Possible Cause Solution Poor quality or low octane fuel Replace with recommended fuel Incorrect ignition timing See your dealer Incorrect spark plug gap or heat range Set gap to specs or replace plugs Possible Cau...

116 TROUBLESHOOTING Engine Stops or Loses Power Engine Overheating Possible Cause Solution Out of fuel Refuel, cycle key to ON position three times for 5 seconds each, then start Kinked or plugged fuel vent line Inspect and replace Overuse of choke Inspect, clean and/or replace spark plugs Water is ...

117 POLARIS PRODUCTS Part Number Description Engine Lubricant 2870791 Fogging Oil (12 oz. Aerosol) 2876244 PS-4 PLUS Performance Synthetic 2W-50 4-Cycle Oil (qt./.95 l) 2876245 PS-4 PLUS Performance Synthetic 2W-50 4-Cycle Oil (gal./3.8 l) Gearcase / Transmission Lubricants 2878068 AGL PLUS Transmis...

118 SPECIFICATIONS * Based on EU Directive 76/432/EC SPORTSMAN 400/500 H.O. Gross Vehicle Weight 1200 lbs. (544 kg) Maximum Weight Capacity 485 lbs. (220 kg) (operator, cargo, accessories) Dry Weight 688 lbs. (312 kg) (400) / 696 lbs. (316 kg) (500) Fuel Capacity 4.25 gal. (16 l) Engine Oil Capacity...

119 SPECIFICATIONS Jetting Chart Clutching Chart (400/500) Clutching Chart (500 LE) *EBS models require no helix/spring adjustment SPORTSMAN 400/500 H.O. Gear Reduction, Low 23.91:1 Gear Reduction, Reverse 21.74:1 Gear Reduction, Forward 10.57:1 Drive Ratio, Front 3.82:1 Tires/Pressure, Front 25x8-1...

120 WARRANTY LIMITED WARRANTY POLARIS Sales Inc., 2100 Highway 55, Medina, MN 55340, gives a SIX MONTH LIMITED WARRANTY on all components of the POLARIS All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) against defects in material or workmanship. Warranty period will vary regionally. POLARIS also gives a one year limited w...

122 WARRANTY LIMITATIONS OF WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES This warranty also excludes failures resulting from improper lubrication; improper engine timing; improper fuel; surface imperfections caused by external stress, heat, cold or contamination; operator error or abuse; improper component alignment, te...

123 WARRANTY HOW TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE If your ATV requires warranty service, you must take it to a POLARIS dealer authorized to repair POLARIS ATVs. When requesting warranty service you must present your copy of the Warranty Registration form to the dealer. (THE COST OF TRANSPORTA-TION TO AND ...

124 WARRANTY Exported Vehicles EXCEPT WHERE SPECIFICALLY REQUIRED BY LAW, THERE IS NO WAR-RANTY OR SERVICE BULLETIN COVERAGE ON THIS VEHICLE IF IT IS SOLD OUTSIDE THE COUNTRY OF THE SELLING DEALER'S AUTHORIZED LOCA-TION.This policy does not apply to vehicles that have received authorization for expo...

125 WARRANTY Exported Vehicles How to Get Service If Purchased From A Private Party: If you purchase a POLARIS product from a private citizen, to be kept and used outside of the country in which the vehicle was originally purchased, all warranty coverage will be denied. You must nonetheless warranty...

128 MAINTENANCE LOG Present this section of your manual to your dealer each time your vehicle is serviced. This will provide you and future owners with an accurate log of maintenance and ser-vices performed. DATE MILES (KM) OR HOURS TECHNICIAN SERVICE PERFORMED / COMMENTS

131 INDEX A Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83All Wheel Drive System . . . . . . . . . . 33Apparel, Protective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Auxiliary Foot Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . 78AWD Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . ....