Polaris 2004 SPORTSMAN User manual

Part No. 9918724 Rev 06
PRINTED IN THE USA
WARNING
Improper vehicle use can result in SEVERE INJURY or DEATH.
READ OWNER'S MANUAL.
FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS.
ALWAYS USE
AN APPROVED
HELMET AND
PROTECTIVE
GEAR
NEVER USE
ON PUBLIC
ROADS
NEVER CARRY
PASSENGERS
NEVER USE
WITH DRUGS
OR ALCOHOL
Operate without proper training or instruction.
Operate on public roads. A collision can occur with another vehicle.
Operate at speeds too fast for your skills or the conditions.
Use ALCOHOL or DRUGS before or while operating this vehicle.
Carry Passengers.
ALWAYS:
Avoid paved surfaces, which may adversely affect handling and control.
Use proper RIDING TECHNIQUES to avoid vehicle overturns on hills
and rough terrain, and in turns.
Wear eye protection, helmet and protective apparel.
NEVER:
P
an
t
one
644

WARNING
The engine exhaust from this
product contains chemicals known
to cause cancer, birth defects or
other reproductive harm.
A card containing important ATV safety information should be
attached to the owner’s manual on the next page. If you cannot
locate this card, or if it has been removed, please call
1-800-342-3764 for assistance.

1
We’ve created a web site just for YOU!
STechnical tips
SNew product introductions
SEvent schedules
SParts and Service Manual information
SExciting details about The Way Out
Check it out...
www.polarisindustries.com/owner

2
Copyright 2003 Polaris Sales Inc. All information contained within this publication is
based on the latest product information at the time of publication. Due to constant
improvements in the design and quality of production components, some minor
discrepancies may result between the actual vehicle and the information presented in this
publication. Depictions and/or procedures in this publication are intended for reference
use only. No liability can be accepted for omissions or inaccuracies. Any reprinting or
reuse of the depictions and/or procedures contained within, whether whole or in part, is
expressly prohibited. Printed in U.S.A.

3
WELCOME
Thank you for purchasing a Polaris vehicle, and welcome to our
world-wide family of Polaris owners. We proudly produce an exciting
line of utility and recreational products.
Polaris Recreational Vehicles
SSnowmobiles
SAll-terrain vehicles (ATVs)
SWatercraft
SRANGER utility vehicles
SVictory motorcycles
Polaris Professional Series Workmobilest
SUtility Task Vehiclest(UTVs)
SPersonal Task Vehiclest(PTVs)
SAll-Surface Loaders (ASLs)
We believe Polaris sets a standard of excellence for all utility and
recreational vehicles manufactured in the world today. Many years of
experience have gone into the engineering, design, and development of
your Polaris vehicle, making it the finest machine we’ve ever
produced.
For safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle, be sure to follow the
instructions and recommendations in this owner’s manual. Your
manual contains instructions for minor maintenance, but information
about major repairs is outlined in the Polaris Service Manual and
should be performed only by a Factory Certified Master Service Dealer
(MSD) Technician.
Your Polaris dealer knows your vehicle best and is interested in your
total satisfaction. Be sure to return to your dealership for all of your
service needs during, and after, the warranty period.
We also take great pride in our Parts Apparel and Accessories (PAA)
products, available through our online store at www.purepolaris.com.
Have your accessories and clothing delivered right to your door!
Polaris, Polaris The Way Out, and Workmobiles are registered
trademarks of Polaris Industries Inc.

4
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS
The frame vehicle identification number (VIN)(1) and engine serial
number (2) are important for model identification when registering
your vehicle, when obtaining insurance, and when ordering
replacement parts. In the event your vehicle is stolen, these numbers
are essential to the recovery and identification of your vehicle.
Remove the spare key and store it in a safe place. Your key can be
duplicated only by mating a Polaris key blank with one of your
existing keys. If both keys are lost, the ignition switch must be
replaced. See your Polaris dealer.
NOTE: Record your vehicle’s ID numbers and key number (3) in the
spaces provided.
2
1
31XX
3
2
400/500
600/700
Frame VIN:
Engine Serial Number:
Vehicle Model Number:
Key Number:

5
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WELCOME 3........................................
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS 4...............
SAFETY 6..........................................
CONTROLS 36......................................
FEATURES 44.......................................
OPERATION 50.....................................
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS 68...................
MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION 69................
ADJUSTMENTS 112.................................
POLARIS PRODUCTS 115............................
TROUBLESHOOTING 116............................
SPECIFICATIONS 120................................
WARRANTY 128.....................................
INDEX 133..........................................

6
SAFETY
Safety Decals and Locations
Warning decals have been placed on the ATV for your protection. Read
and follow the instructions of the decals on the ATV carefully. If any
of the decals depicted in this manual differ from the decals on your
ATV, always read and follow the instructions of the decals on the ATV.
If any decal becomes illegible or comes off, contact your Polaris dealer
to purchase a replacement. Replacement safety decals are provided by
Polaris at no charge. The part number is printed on the decal.
7079083
E1997, 2000
IF OWNER’S MANUAL IS MISSING, CONTACT
A POLARIS DEALER FOR A REPLACEMENT.
WARNING
Operating this vehicle if you are under
the age of 16 increases your chance
of severe injury or death.
NEVER operate this vehicle if you are
under age 16.
WARNING
WARNING
7077920
WARNING

7
SAFETY
Safety Decals and Locations
IMPROPER TIRE PRESSURE OR OVERLOADING can cause loss of
control resulting in SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH.
TIRE PRESSURE IN PSI (KPa): FRONT 5 (34,5) REAR 5 (34,5)
MAXIMUM WEIGHT CAPACITY (Gross Vehicle Weight)
INCLUDING MACHINE, DRIVER AND CARGO IS 1200 LBS. (545 kg).
Reduce speed and allow greater distance for braking when carrying
cargo. Overloading or carrying tall, off-center, or unsecured loads
will increase your risk of losing control. Loads should be centered,
carried as low as possible, and firmly secured to the racks. With
dual racks, load distribution 1/3 front 2/3 rear is best. For stability
on rough or hilly terrain, reduce speed and cargo. Do not block
headlight. Be careful if load extends over the side of the rack.
Read Owner’s Manual for more detailed loading information
WARNING
7079084
ATTENTION
SOperation of this vehicle without the air
filter element will severely damage the
engine.
SClean pre-filter element often, more
frequent cleaning required in dusty
conditions. Do not operate vehicle
without pre-filter.
SOperation of this vehicle without engine
breather filter(s) can cause engine
damage. Consult owner’s manual or
dealer for details.
Factory setting:
40_to 80_F. at 0-3000 feet
(5_to 27_C. at 0-900 meters).
7079902
SSpecific carburetor jetting and
adjustments are required depending
on temperature and altitude. See
your Owner’s Manual.

8
SAFETY
Safety Decals and Locations
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 which can result in serious injury or death.
NO STEP
7078689
WARNING
SDO NOT TOW FROM RACK OR BUMPER.
Vehicle damage or tipover may result causing severe injury
or death. Tow only from tow hooks or hitch.
SMax Rack Loads: Front 100 lbs. (45 kg) Rear 200 lbs. (91 kg) 7170912
WARNING
SDO NOT TOW FROM RACK OR BUMPER.
Vehicle damage or tipover may result causing severe injury
or death. Tow only from tow hooks or hitch.
SMax Rack Loads: Front 90 lbs. (41 kg) Rear 180 lbs. (82 kg) 7170021
WARNING
Sportsman 400/500
Sportsman 600/700

9
SAFETY
Safety Decals and Locations
ALL WHEEL
DRIVE
SWITCH
Do not push switch to
engage AWD if the rear
wheels are spinning.
This may cause severe
drive shaft and clutch
damage.
See your Owner’s
Manual.
7079780
7079604
7170509
TRAILER MAX WEIGHT:
1500 LBS. (682 KG) ON LEVEL GROUND
850 LBS. (386 KG) UP TO 15°GRADE
HITCH MAX. VERTICAL WEIGHT: 150 LBS. (68KG)
WARNING
Pushing reverse
override button
may cause
sudden in-
creases in pow-
er and traction if
too much
throttle is ap-
plied. Loss of
control or for-
ward flipover
may result, es-
pecially in
AWD. See Own-
er’s Manual.
7170911
TRAILER MAX WEIGHT:
1225 LBS. (557 KG) ON LEVEL GROUND
850 LBS. (386 KG) UP TO 15°GRADE
HITCH MAX. VERTICAL WEIGHT: 120 LBS. (55KG)
Sportsman 600/700
Sportsman 400/500
MANUFACTURED
BY: POLARIS IND. INC.
DATE:
VIN:
THIS VEHICLE IS AN ALL TERRAIN VEHICLE AND IS NOT
INTENDED FOR USE ON PUBLIC ROADS.
7171492
CE VÉHICULE EST UN VÉHICULE TOUT TERRAIN QUI NiEST
PAS DESTINÉ À ÊTRE UTILISÉ SUR LES CHEMINS PUBLICS.
Canadian Certification Decal

10
SAFETY
Safe Riding Gear
Always wear clothing suited to the type of riding. ATV riding requires
special protective clothing for comfort and to reduce the chance of
injury.
1. Helmet
Your helmet is the most important piece
of protective gear for safe riding. A
helmet can prevent a severe head injury.
Select an approved helmet that meets
or exceeds your state’s safety standards
and bears either the Department of
Transportation (DOT) label, the
American National Standards
Institute label (ANSI z90.1), or the
Snell Memorial Foundation label.
2. Eye Protection
Do not depend on sunglasses for
proper eye protection. A pair of
goggles or a helmet face shield offer
the best protection for your eyes. They
should be kept clean and be of
shatterproof design (bearing the
markings Z2.1 or VESC 8).
3. Gloves
Off-road style gloves with knuckle pads are the best for comfort and
protection.
4. Boots
The best footwear is a pair of strong over-the-calf boots with heels, like
moto-cross boots.
5. Clothing
Always wear long sleeves and long pants to protect arms and legs.
Riding pants with kneepads and a jersey with shoulder pads provide
the best protection.
1
2
3
4
5

11
SAFETY
Operator Safety
Age Restrictions
This vehicle is an ADULT VEHICLE ONLY. Operation is prohibited
for anyone under 16 years of age.
Know Your Vehicle
As the operator of the vehicle, you are responsible for your personal
safety, the safety of others, and the protection of our environment.
Read and understand your owner’s manual, which includes valuable
information about all aspects of your vehicle, including safe operating
procedures.
Safety Training
When you purchased your new ATV, your dealer offered a hands-on
safety training course that covers all aspects of vehicle safety. You
were also provided with printed materials that explain safe operating
procedures. You should review this information on a regular basis.
If you purchased a used Polaris ATV from a party other than a Polaris
dealer, you can request this free safety training from any authorized
Polaris dealer.
A Polaris ATV is an off-road vehicle. Familiarize yourself with all
laws and regulations concerning the operation of the ATV in your area.
We strongly advise you to strictly follow the recommended
maintenance program outlined in your owner’s manual. This
preventive maintenance program is designed to ensure that all critical
components on your vehicle are thoroughly inspected at specific
intervals.
WARNING
Failure to follow the warnings 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 can occur quickly,
even during routine maneuvers like turning, or driving on hills or
over obstacles, if you fail to take proper precautions.
Read and understand your owner’s manual and all warnings
before operating a Polaris ATV.

12
SAFETY
Operator Safety
The following two pages identify signal words and symbols that appear
in this manual. Your safety is involved when these words and symbols
are used. Become familiar with their meanings before reading the
manual.
The safety alert symbol, on your vehicle or in this manual, alerts
you to the potential for personal injury.
The safety alert warning indicates a potential hazard that may result
in serious injury or death.
The safety alert caution indicates a potential hazard that may result
in minor personal injury or damage to the vehicle.
CAUTION
NOTE:
Anote will alert you to important information or instructions.
Acaution indicates a situation that may result in damage to the
vehicle.
CAUTION
WARNING

13
SAFETY
Operator Safety
SRead this manual and all labels carefully, and follow the operating
procedures described.
SNever operate an ATV without proper instruction. Take a training
course. Beginners should receive training from a certified instructor.
Contact an authorized Polaris ATV dealer or call Polaris at
1-800-342-3764 to find out about the training courses nearest you.
SNever allow anyone under 16 years of age to operate this ATV.
SNever permit a guest to operate the ATV unless the guest has read
this manual and all product labels and has completed a certified safe-
ty training course.
SAlways avoid operating an ATV on paved surfaces, including side-
walks, driveways, parking lots, and streets.
SNever operate an ATV on a public street, road or highway, including
a dirt or gravel road.
SNever operate an ATV without wearing an approved helmet that fits
properly. Always wear eye protection (goggles or face shield),
gloves, boots, a long-sleeved shirt or jacket, and long pants.
SNever consume alcohol or drugs before or while operating an ATV.
SNever operate at excessive speeds. Travel at speeds appropriate for
the terrain, visibility and operating conditions, and your experience.
SNever attempt wheelies, jumps or other stunts.
SAlways inspect your ATV before each use to make sure it’s in safe
operating condition. Always follow the inspection and maintenance
procedures and schedules outlined in your owner’s manual.
SAlways keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the foot-
rests of the ATV during operation.
SAlways travel slowly and use extra caution when operating on unfa-
miliar terrain. Be alert to changing terrain conditions.
SNever operate on excessively rough, slippery, or loose terrain.
SAlways follow proper turning procedures as described in this manu-
al. Practice turning at low speeds before attempting to turn at faster
speeds. Do not turn at excessive speeds.
WARNING
Serious injury or death can result if you do not follow these
instructions and procedures, which are outlined in further detail
within your owner’s manual.

14
SAFETY
Operator Safety
SAlways have the ATV inspected by an authorized Polaris dealer if
it’s been involved in an accident.
SNever operate on hills too steep for the ATV or for your abilities.
Practice on smaller hills before attempting larger hills.
SAlways follow proper procedures for climbing hills. Check the ter-
rain carefully before ascending a hill. Never climb hills with exces-
sively slippery or loose surfaces. Shift your weight forward. Never
open the throttle suddenly or make sudden gear changes. Never go
over the top of a hill at high speed.
SAlways follow proper procedures for going downhill and for braking
on hills. Check the terrain carefully before you start down a hill.
Shift your weight backward. Never go down a hill at high speed.
Avoid going down a hill at an angle, which would cause the vehicle
to lean sharply to one side. Travel straight down the hill when pos-
sible.
SAlways follow proper procedures for crossing the side of a hill.
Avoid hills with excessively slippery or loose surfaces. Shift your
weight to the uphill side of the ATV. Never attempt to turn the ATV
around on any hill until you’ve mastered (on level ground) the turn-
ing technique outlined in this manual. Avoid crossing the side of a
steep hill when possible.
SAlways use proper procedures if you stall or roll backwards while
climbing a hill. To avoid stalling, maintain a steady speed when
climbing a hill. If you stall or roll backwards, follow the special
procedure for braking described in this manual. Always dismount
on the uphill side, or to either side if the ATV is pointed straight
uphill. Turn the ATV around and remount following the procedure
described in this manual.
SAlways check for obstacles before operating in a new area. Never
attempt to operate over large obstacles, such as rocks or fallen trees.
Always follow proper procedures when operating over obstacles as
described in this manual.
SAlways be careful of skidding or sliding. On slippery surfaces like
ice, travel slowly and use extra caution to reduce the chance of skid-
ding or sliding out of control.
SAvoid operating the ATV through deep or fast-flowing water. If it’s
unavoidable, travel slowly, balance your weight carefully, avoid sud-
den movements, and maintain a slow and steady forward motion. Do
not make sudden turns or stops, and do not make sudden throttle
changes.

15
SAFETY
Operator Safety
SWet brakes may have reduced stopping ability. Test the brakes after
leaving water. If necessary, apply them lightly several times to allow
friction to dry out the pads.
SAlways check for obstacles or people behind the ATV before operat-
ing in reverse. When it’s safe to proceed in reverse, move slowly
and avoid turning at sharp angles.
SAlways use the size and type of tires specified for your ATV, and
always maintain proper tire pressure.
SNever modify an ATV through improper installation or use of acces-
sories.
SNever exceed the stated load capacity for your ATV. Cargo must be
properly distributed and securely attached. Reduce speed and follow
the instructions in this manual for carrying cargo or towing. Allow a
greater distance for braking.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ATV SAFETY, call the Con-
sumer Product Safety Commission at 1-800-638-2772, or call
Polaris at 1-800-342-3764.
Equipment Modifications
We are concerned for the safety of our customers and for the general
public. Therefore, we strongly recommend that consumers do not
install on a Polaris ATV any equipment that may increase the speed or
power of the vehicle, or make any other modifications to the vehicle
for these purposes. Any modifications to the original equipment of the
vehicle create a substantial safety hazard and increase the risk of bodily
injury.
The warranty on your Polaris ATV is terminated if any equipment has
been added to the vehicle, or if any modifications have been made to
the vehicle, that increase its speed or power.
NOTE: The addition of certain accessories, including (but not limited
to) mowers, blades, tires, sprayers, or large racks, may change the
handling characteristics of the vehicle. Use only Polaris-approved
accessories, and familiarize yourself with their function and effect on
the vehicle.

16
SAFETY
Operator Safety
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Operating this ATV without proper instruction.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
The risk of an accident is greatly increased if the operator
does not know how to operate the ATV properly in different
situations and on different types of terrain.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Beginning and inexperienced operators should complete the
certified training course offered by Polaris. Operators should
regularly practice the skills learned in the course and the
operating techniques described in the owner’s manual.
For more information about the training course, contact an
authorized ATV dealer or call Polaris at 1-800-342-3764.
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Failure to follow the age recommendations for this ATV.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Severe injury and/or death could occur if a child under the
minimum age recommendation operates an ATV.
Even though a child may be within the recommended age group
for operating some ATVs, he/she may not have the skills,
abilities, or judgment needed to operate an ATV safely and could
be susceptible to accident or injury.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
No one under the age of 16 should operate a Polaris ATV.
WARNING
WARNING

17
SAFETY
Operator Safety
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Carrying a passenger on an ATV.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Carrying a passenger greatly reduces the operator’s ability to
balance and control the ATV, which could cause an accident
and injury to the operator and/or passenger.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Never carry a passenger. The purpose of the long seat is to
allow the operator to shift position as needed during operation.
It is not intended for carrying passengers.
WARNING