Polaris YOUTH ATV 2001 User manual

2001
Universal Owner’s Safety
and Maintenance Manual
ATV
Read this manual carefully. It contains important safety information.
This is an adult vehicle only.
Operation is prohibited for those under 16 years of age.

The engine exhaust from this
product contains chemicals known
to cause cancer, birth defects or
other reproductive harm.
WARNING

FOREWORD
Congratulations and thank you from Polaris Industries Inc. for pur-
chasing one of our all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Built with American
engineering and manufacturing know-how, it is designed to pro-
vide superior riding comfort, enjoyment, and safety.
This manual is furnished to ensure that the operator is aware of
safe operating procedures. It also includes information about the
general care and maintenance of your ATV.
Carefully read the following pages. If you have any questions re-
garding this ATV contact a Polaris dealer for assistance. Remem-
ber, Polaris dealers have the knowledge and facilities to provide
you with the best service possible.
PROTECT YOUR SPORT
Know all local, state/province riding laws;
Respect your vehicle;
Respect the environment; and
You will gain the respect of others.
We also advise you to strictly follow the recommended mainte-
nance program as outlined. This preventive maintenance pro-
gram is designed to ensure that all critical components on this ATV
are thoroughly inspected at various intervals.
All information in this manualis based upon the latest product data
and specifications available at the time of printing. Polaris Indus-
tries Inc. reserves the right to make product changes and improve-
ments which may affect illustrations or explanations.
No part of thismanualshall be reproduced or used without the writ-
ten permission of Polaris Industries Inc.
Illustrations included in this manual are general
representations of parts having a similar function. Your
model may differ.

AN ATV IS NOT A TOY AND CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO OPER-
ATE. An ATV handles differently from othervehicles including mo-
torcycles and cars. A collision or rollover can occur quickly, even
during routine maneuvers such as turning and driving on hills or
over obstacles, if you fail to take proper precautions.
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH can result if you do not follow
these instructions:
•Read this manual and all labels carefully and follow the operating
procedures described.
•Never operate an ATV without proper instruction. Take a train-
ing course. Beginners should receive training from a certified
instructor. Contact an authorized Polaris ATV dealer or call Po-
laris at 1-800-342-3764 to find out about the training courses
nearest you.
•Never allow anyone under 16 years of age to operate this ATV.
•Never permit a guest to operate this ATV unless the guest has
read this manual and all product labels, and has completed a
certified training course.
•Always avoid operating an ATVon anypaved surfaces,including
sidewalks, driveways, parking lots and streets.
•Never operate an ATV on any public street, road or highway,
even a dirt or gravel one.
•Never operate an ATV without wearing an approved helmet that
fits properly. You should also wear eye protection (goggles or
face shield), gloves, boots, long-sleeved shirt or jacket, and long
pants.
•Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while operating this
ATV.
•Never operate at excessive speeds. Always travel at a speed
which is proper for the terrain, visibility and operating conditions,
and your experience.
•Never attempt wheelies, jumps or other stunts.

•Always inspect your ATV each time you use it to make sure it is
in safe operating condition. Always follow the inspection and
maintenance procedures and schedules described in this
manual.
•Always keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the
footrests of the ATV during operation.
•Always go slowly and be extra careful when operating on unfa-
miliar terrain. Always be alert to changing terrain conditions
when operating the ATV.
•Never operate on excessively rough, slippery or loose terrain.
•Always follow proper procedures for turning as described in this
manual. Practice turning at lowspeeds before attempting to turn
at faster speeds. Do not turn at excessive speed.
•Always have the ATV checked by an authorized Polaris dealer
if it has been involved in an accident.
•Never operate the ATV on hills too steep for the ATV or for your
abilities. Practice on smaller hills before attempting larger hills.
•Always follow proper procedures for climbing hills as described
in this manual. Check the terrain carefully before you start up
any hill. Never climb hills with excessively slippery or loose sur-
faces. Shift your weight forward. Never open the throttle sud-
denly or make sudden gear changes. Never go over the top of
any hill at high speed.
•Always follow proper procedures for going down hills and for
braking on hills as described in this manual. Check the terrain
carefully before you start down any hill. Shift your weight back-
ward. 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. Go straight down the hill where possible.
•Always follow proper procedures for crossing the side of a hill as
described in this manual. 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 have
mastered the turning technique described in this manual on lev-
el ground. Avoid crossing the side of a steep hill if possible.

•Always use properprocedures if you stall or roll backwards when
climbing a hill. To avoid stalling, maintain a steady speed when
climbing a hill. If you stall or roll backwards, follow the special
procedure forbraking described in this manual. Dismount on the
uphill side or to either side if pointed straight uphill. Turn the ATV
around and remount, following the procedure described in this
manual.
•Always check for obstacles before operating in a new area. Nev-
er attempt to operate over large obstacles, such as large rocks
or fallen trees. Always follow proper procedures when operating
over obstacles as described in this manual.
•Always be careful of skidding or sliding. On slippery surfaces,
such as ice, go slowly and be very cautious in order to reduce
the chance of skidding or sliding out of control.
•Avoid operating the ATV through deep or fast flowing water. If
you cannot avoid water which exceeds the recommended maxi-
mum depth (pg. NO TAG), go slowly, balance your weight care-
fully avoiding sudden movements, maintain a slow and steady
forward motion, do not make sudden turns or stops, and do not
make sudden throttle changes.
•Wet brakes may have reduced stopping ability. Test your brakes
after leaving water. If necessary apply them lightly several times
to let friction dry out the pads.
•Always be sure there are no obstacles or people behind you
when you operate in reverse. When it is safe to proceed in re-
verse, go slowly. Avoid turning at sharp angles in reverse.
•Always use the size and type tires specified in this manual. Al-
ways maintain proper tire pressure as described in this manual.
•Never modify an ATV through improper installation or use of ac-
cessories.
•Never exceed the stated load capacity for an ATV. Cargo should
be properly distributed and securely attached. Reduce speed
and follow instructions in this manual for carrying cargo or pulling
a trailer. Allow greater distance for braking.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ATV SAFETY, call the Con-
sumer Product Safety Commission at 1-800-638-2772, or Polaris
at 1-800-342-3764.

Additional Important Information...
Due to our concern for the safety of our customers and the general
public, Polaris hereby strongly recommends and requests that
consumers not have installed on a Polaris ATV any equipment
which is intended to increase the speed or power of the vehicle; or
make any other modifications to the vehicle for these purposes.
Any modifications to the originalequipment of the ATV substantial-
ly increase the risk of bodily injury. Please be aware that these
modifications may create a substantial safety hazard.
Polaris hereby informs you that the warranty on your ATV is termi-
nated if any such equipment has been added to the ATV or any
modifications have been made to the ATV which increase its
speed or power.
We also advise you to strictly follow the recommended mainte-
nance program outlined in this manual. This preventive mainte-
nance program is designed to ensure that all critical components
on the ATV are thoroughly inspected by your dealer at various
mileage intervals.
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 ATV.
Be certain any accessories added to this ATVhave been approved
by Polaris.
Familiarize yourself with their function and affect on the ATV.

The Polaris Preferred
Registered Owners
(PRO) Family
Your Owners Program
As the owner of a new Polaris vehicle, you are entitled to a FREE
two- year membership in the Polaris PRO Family---the Preferred
Registered Owners Family. It’s an owners program for Polaris
owners like you, people who have chosen the finest recreational
vehicle available, people who share an interest in Polaris and its
products.
Once your new vehicle’s warranty is registered, you will receive a
PRO Family membership packet that will include:
A letter of welcome to the PRO Family
A PRO Family card with your name and membership number
A colorful sticker of the PRO logo
A PRO merchandise brochure and order form.
As a PRO Family member, you’re entitled to opportunities such as:
A free subscription to PRO Spirit, the official magazine of the
PRO Family
The chance to buy insurance for your Polaris vehicle. The toll-
free insurance telephone number is: 1-800-473-0111
The chance to arrange travelthrough thePolaris TravelCenter.
The toll-free travel telephone number is: 1-800-267-1915
The chance to apply to serve on PRO Consumer Councils that
provide input into the Polaris vehicles of the future
The chance to serve as a PRO Field Evaluator and provide
feedback on your new vehicle
The chance to take part in national PRO snowmobile, ATV or
personal watercraft rides
The chance to purchase exclusive PRO Family merchandise
And more!

To order PRO merchandise, complete the order form you receive
with your membership packet, take the form to your Polaris dealer
and pay for the merchandise. The merchandise will be shipped di-
rectly to your home from the PRO merchandise fulfillment center.
Watch for your PRO membership packet and the next issue of
PRO Spirit magazine. This quarterly magazine will keep you in-
formed about Polaris news and events, and special PRO mer-
chandise, travel, and ride opportunities.
Enjoy your new Polaris vehicle, and welcome to the family--The
Polaris PRO Family.

CONTENTS
UNDERSTANDING WARNINGS 1-2..........................
SAFETY WARNING AND OPERATION DECALS 3-11...........
DAILY PRE-RIDE INSPECTION 12...........................
OPERATION WARNINGS 13-33..............................
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS 34.....................
CONTROL AND PARTS FUNCTIONS 35-65...................
STARTING THE ENGINE 66.................................
VEHICLE BREAK IN PERIOD 67-69..........................
RIDING GEAR 70...........................................
CARRYING LOADS 71-73...................................
DAILY PRE-RIDE INSPECTION 74...........................
RIDING 75-88..............................................
PVT System 89-91..........................................
BATTERY 92-94............................................
NOISE EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM REGULATION 95.......
MAINTENANCE 96-168.....................................
TROUBLE SHOOTING 167-172.............................
WARRANTY 173-175.......................................
INDEX 176-177............................................

1
UNDERSTANDING WARNINGS
ATTENTION:
This is an ADULT VEHICLE ONLY; not a toy. Operation is prohib-
ited for anyone under 16 years of age. READ ANDUNDERSTAND
WARNINGS AND OWNER’S MANUAL BEFORE OPERATION.
KNOW YOUR VEHICLE BEFORE YOU BEGIN RIDING!.
Read this manual thoroughly referring to the various areas which
are being discussed on your machine. Operating this vehicle car-
ries with it responsibilities for your personal safety, the safety of
others, and the protection of our environment.
SAFETY TRAINING.
When you purchased this vehicle your dealer presented a hands-
on safety training course covering all aspects of ATV safety. In
addition, you were provided with certain printed material which
instructs you on safe operating procedures.
You should review this information on a regular basis. In the event
you purchased a used Polaris ATVfrom a party other than a Polaris
dealer, you can obtain this safety training at no charge from any
authorized Polaris dealer.
Failure to follow the warnings contained in this manual can result
in SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH.
NOTE: Illustrations used in this manual are for general represen-
tation only. Your model may differ.

2
UNDERSTANDING WARNINGS
SAFETY ALERT
WARNINGS identify special instructions or procedures
which, if not correctly followed, could result in personal inju-
ry, or loss of life. Read all WARNINGS in this manual carefully.
Follow their instructions to remain safe.
The following precautionary signal words are used throughout this
manual to convey the following messages:
This is the safety alert symbol. When you
see this symbol on your machine or in this
manual, be alert to the potential for personal
injury. Your safety is involved!
Indicates a potential hazard which could result in
severe injury or death.
Indicates a potential hazard which may result in mi-
nor personal injury or damage to the ATV.
NOTE The word “NOTE:” in this manual will
alert you to key information or
instructions.
Indicates a situation that can result in damage to
the machine.

3
SAFETY WARNING AND OPERATION DECALS
NOTE:
Warning decals have been placed on the vehicle for your protec-
tion. Read and follow the instructions on each decal carefully. In
the event any decal becomes illegible or comes off, contact your
Polaris dealer for a replacement. Any safety decal needing re-
placement will be provided by Polaris at no charge. The part num-
ber is printed on the decal.
1

4
SAFETY WARNING AND OPERATION DECALS
1
7079083
E1997
IF OWNER’S MANUAL IS MISSING, CONTACT
YOUR POLARIS DEALER FOR A REPLACEMENT.
WARNING

5
SAFETY WARNING AND OPERATION DECALS
2
3

6
SAFETY WARNING AND OPERATION DECALS
FNever operate this ATV on HILLS steeper than 25 degrees
To prevent flipover on hilly terrain, when going up or down,
use throttle and brakes gradually.
25°
FREVERSE operation can be dangerous even at low speeds.
Steering becomes difficult. To prevent flipover, avoid sudden
braking or sharp turns.
FUse OVERRIDE for reverse speed limiter with caution. To prevent
loss of control, never activate override button with open throttle.
FPARKING BRAKE may relax when used for more than 5 minutes.
When parking on grades, leave shift in forward.
7079085
3
Operating this ATV if you are under the age
of 16 increases your chance of severe injury
or death.
NEVER operate this ATV if you are under
age 16. 7078253
UNDER
2
3
WARNING

7
SAFETY WARNING AND OPERATION DECALS
4
5
6

8
SAFETY WARNING AND OPERATION DECALS
4
5
(Refer to your Owner’s Manual Supplement for your vehicle’s
specifications.)
IMPROPER TIRE PRESSURE OR OVERLOADING can cause loss of
control resulting in SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH.
TIRE PRESSURE (PSI): FRONT ___ REAR ___
MAXIMUM WEIGHT CAPACITY (Gross Vehicle Weight)
INCLUDING MACHINE, DRIVER AND CARGO IS ____ LBS.
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
(on rear of seat)
6
WARNING
WARNING

9
SAFETY WARNING AND OPERATION DECALS
7
8
ATTENTION
DOPERATION OF THIS VEHICLE WITHOUT
THE FILTER ELEMENT WILL SEVERELY
DAMAGE THE ENGINE.
DCLEAN AIR FILTER OFTEN, MORE FRE-
QUENT CLEANING REQUIRED IN
DUSTY CONDITIONS.
DLiutilisation de ce véhicule sous liélément
filtre endommage sévèrement le moteur.
DNettoyer souvent le filtre à air, surtout dans
des situations poussiereuses.
7072791
(Under Seat)
7
8
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