Polaris ATV Sportsman Forest 550 User Manual
Sportsman Forest 550
Sportsman Forest 850
for Maintenance and Safety
Owner's Manual
Read this manual carefully. It contains important safety information.
Operation is prohibited for those under 16 years of age.
This is an adult vehicle only.
Before you operate this vehicle,
read the owner’s manual
For your nearest Polaris dealer,
call 1-800-POLARIS
or visit www.polarisindustries.com
Polaris Sales Inc., 2100 Hwy 55
Medina, MN 55340
Phone 1-888-704-5290
Part No. 9923176 Rev 01
Printed in USA
*9923176 *
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.
• Snowmobiles
• All-terrain vehicles (ATVs)
• RANGER
• Victory Motorcycles
Always follow the instructions and recommendations in this manual.
The 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
needs during (and after) the warranty period.
For more information about POLARIS, visit us online at www.polarisindustries.com.
®
utility vehicles
®
®
(MSD) technician. Please see your dealer for all of your service
1
POLARIS, THE WAY OUT and SPOR TSMAN are registered trademarks of POLARIS
Industries Inc.
MAXXIS
®
is a registered trademark of Maxxis International.
Copyright 2010 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 in acc uracies. Any reprinting or reuse
of the depictions and/or procedures contained within, whether whole or in part, is
expressly prohibited.
The original instructions for this vehicle are in English. Other languages are provided as
translations of the original instructions.
Printed in U.S.A.
SPORTSMAN Forest 550 / SPORTSMAN Forest 850 Owner’s Manual
P/N 9923176
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Features and Controls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Winch Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Emission Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
POLARIS Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Declaration of Conformity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Maintenance Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
3
INTRODUCTION
The following signal words and symbols appear throughout this manual
and on your vehicle. Your safety is involved when these words and symbols are used. Become familiar with their meanings before reading the
manual.
The safety alert symbol indicates a potential personal injury hazard.
DANGER
A DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
A WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in
death or serious injury.
CAUTION
A CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE
A NOTICE indicates a situation that may result in property damage.
The Prohibition Safety Sign indicates an action NOT to take in order
to avoid a hazard.
The Mandatory Action Sign indicates an action that NEEDS to be
taken to avoid a hazard.
4
INTRODUCTION
####
VIN
Engine Serial Number
Key
Number
550 850
As the operator of the vehicle, you are responsible for your personal
safety, the safety of others (including your passenger), 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.
Ride responsibly. Know all laws and regulations concerning the operation of this vehicle in your area.
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 of your existing keys.
The ignition switch must be replaced if all keys are lost.
Vehicle Model Number: ___________________________________________________
Frame VIN: _____________________________________________________________
Engine Serial Number: ____________________________________________________
Key Number: ___________________________________________________________
5
SAFETY
WARNING
Failure to follow the warnings in this manual can result in serious injury or death.
This POLARIS vehicle is not a toy and can be hazardous to operate. A collision
or rollover can occur quickly, even during routine maneuvers, if you fail to take
proper precautions.
Read and understand your owner's manual and all warnings before operating
this POLARIS vehicle.
Safety Training
When you purchased your new POLARIS vehicle, your dealer offered a
hands-on safety training course. You were also provided with printed
materials that explain safe operating procedures. Review this information on a regular basis.
If you purchased a used POLARIS vehicle from a party other than a
POLARIS dealer, please request free safety training from any authorized POLARIS dealer.
Age Restrictions
This vehicle is an ADULT VEHICLE ONLY. Operation is prohibited
for anyone under 16 years of age.
Restrictions
This vehicle is approved for OFF-ROAD TOWING ONLY. Towing a
trailer with this vehicle on public roads is prohibited. See your
POLARIS dealer about configuring the vehicle to be certified to tow a
trailer on-road.
Equipment Modifications
The warranty on your POLARIS vehicle may be terminated if any
equipment has been added, or if any modifications have been made, that
increase speed or power.
The addition of certain accessories, including (but not limited to) mowers,
blades, tires, sprayers and large racks may change vehicle handling. Use only
POLARIS-approved accessories. Know their function and effect on the vehicle.
6
SAFETY
WARNING
Rider Safety
Serious injury or death can result if you do not follow the instructions and
procedures listed here and throughout this manual. See the OPERATION
section of the owner’s manual for proper operating procedures.
Read and understand all warnings, cautions and
operating procedures in this manual and on the
safety labels before operating the vehicle.
Never operate this vehicle without proper instruction.
Take a training course. Beginners should receive
training from a certified instructor. Contact an
authorized POLARIS dealer or visit the POLARIS
web site at www.polarisindustries.com.
Never permit others to operate the vehicle unless
they have read and understand this manual and all
product labels, and have completed a certified safety training course.
Never allow anyone under 16 years of age to
operate this vehicle.
Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive under certain conditions.
• Use extreme caution whenever handling gasoline.
• Refuel with the engine stopped. Refuel outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
• Do not smoke or allow open flames or sparks in or near the area where refueling is performed or where gasoline is stored.
• Do not overfill the tank. Do not fill the tank neck.
• If gasoline spills on your skin or clothing, immediately wash it off with soap
and water and change clothing.
Engine exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide and can cause loss of
consciousness resulting in severe injury or death. Never run an engine in an
enclosed area.
7
SAFETY
Rider Safety
Never carry a passenger on this vehicle.
Always wear an approved helmet that fits
properly. Wear eye protection (goggles or
face shield), gloves, boots, long sleeves and
long pants.
Never consume alcohol or drugs before or
while operating this vehicle.
Never operate at excessive speeds. Travel
and turn at speeds appropriate for the terrain,
visibility, operating conditions and your
experience.
8
Rider Safety
Always inspect your vehicle before each use
to verify that it's in safe operating condition.
See page 44. Follow the inspection and
maintenance procedures outlined in this
manual.
Keep both hands on the handlebars. Keep
both feet on the footrests.
Always travel slowly when operating on
unfamiliar terrain. Use extra caution.
SAFETY
Always follow the procedures outlined in this
manual for turning. See page 47.
Never turn sharply at excessive speeds,
which can lead to vehicle overturn.
If the vehicle has been involved in an accident, always have an authorized
POLARIS dealer inspect the entire vehicle for possible damage, including (but
not limited to) brake, throttle and steering systems.
9
SAFETY
Rider Safety
Never attempt jumps or other stunts.
Always follow the procedures outlined in this
manual for driving on hills. See page 52.
Never operate on hills too steep for the
vehicle or for your abilities. Practice on
smaller hills before attempting larger hills.
Avoid climbing hills steeper than 25.
Always move the 4X4 switch to ADC 4X4
before ascending or descending a hill.
Always follow the procedures outlined in this
manual for driving downhill and for braking on
hills. See page 55.
Always follow the procedures outlined in this
manual for crossing the side of a hill. See
page 54.
Never attempt to turn the vehicle around on
any hill until you've mastered (on level
ground) the turning technique outlined in this
manual. See page 56.
10
SAFETY
Rider Safety
Always follow the procedures outlined in this
manual for braking if you stall or roll
backwards while climbing a hill. Never back
down a hill. See page 53.
Always follow the procedures outlined in this manual for operating over
obstacles. See page 50.
Always follow the procedures outlined in this
manual for operating on slippery or loose
surfaces. Use extra caution. Always avoid
skidding or sliding. See page 48.
Always follow the procedures outlined in this
manual for driving through water. Never drive
through deep or fast-flowing water. See page
49.
Always follow the procedures outlined in this manual for driving in reverse. See
page 51.
11
SAFETY
Rider Safety
Always use the size and type of tires
specified for your vehicle. Maintain the proper
tire pressure.
Never modify this vehicle through improper installation or use of accessories.
Never exceed the stated load capacity for your vehicle. 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.
Never operate the vehicle on a frozen body of water unless you have
independently verified that the ice is sufficiently thick to support the weight and
moving force of the vehicle, you and your cargo, together with any other
vehicles in your party.
Operating on paved surfaces may affect the handling and control of the vehicle
and could result in loss of control. Avoid sudden turns or swift movement of the
handlebars.
12
SAFETY
Rider Safety
Always remove the ignition key when the
vehicle is not in use to prevent unauthorized
use or accidental starting.
Always unlock the steering before starting the engine. See page 26.
Hot components can cause serious burns and fire. Do not touch hot exhaust
system components. Always keep combustible materials away from the exhaust
system.
For more information about safety, contact an authorized
POLARIS dealer or visit the POLARIS web site at
www.polarisindustries.com.
13
SAFETY
Helmet
Eye Protection
Gloves
Boots
Long Pants
Long
Sleeves
E
4
051039
0006.31
Safe Riding Gear
Always wear protective clothing to reduce the chance of injury.
Helmet
Always wear a helmet that meets or exceeds established safety standards.
Approved helmets in the USA and Canada bear a U.S. Department of
Transportation (DOT) label.
Approved helmets in Europe, Asia and Oceania
bear the ECE 22.05 label. The ECE mark consists
of a circle surrounding the letter E, followed by the
distinguishing number of the country which has
granted approval. The approval number and serial
number will also be displayed on the label.
14
SAFETY
Safe Riding Gear
Eye Protection
Do not depend on eyeglasses or sunglasses for eye protection. Whenever riding a POLARIS vehicle, always wear shatterproof goggles or
use a shatterproof helmet face shield. POLARIS recommends wearing
approved Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) bearing markings such
as VESC 8, V-8, Z87.1, or CE. Make sure protective eye wear is kept
clean.
Gloves
Off-road style gloves with knuckle pads are the best for comfort and
protection.
Boots
The best footwear is a pair of sturdy over-the-calf boots with low heels.
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.
15
SAFETY
2x4
OUT
IN
General
Alert
Age 16
Alert
Hill
Operation
Alert
Reverse
Override
Warning
Safety Labels and Locations
Warning labels have been placed on the vehicle for your protection.
Read and follow the instructions on each label carefully. If a label
becomes illegible or comes off, contact your POLARIS dealer to purchase a replacement. Replacement safety labels are provided by
POLARIS at no charge. The part number is printed on the label.
The following pages repeat the information found on each label.
16
SAFETY
Safety Labels and Locations
General Alert
(Multi-Lingual)
Before you operate this
vehicle, read the owner’s
manual.
7173025
Reverse Override Warning/4X4 Caution
WARNING
Improper use of the override button can lead to loss of control resulting in severe
injury or death. Do not activate override while throttle is engaged. Always apply
throttle gradually, while in reverse.
CAUTION
Do not push switch to engage 4X4 (AWD) if the rear wheels are spinning. This
may cause severe drive shaft and clutch damage.
7175512
Hill Operation Alert
• Never operate this vehicle on HILLS steeper than 25 degrees 25.
• To prevent flip-over on hilly terrain, when going up or down, use throttle and
brakes gradually.
7173026
17
SAFETY
“No Passenger”
Warning
Tire
Pressure/Load
Warning
Safety Labels and Locations
“No Passenger” Warning
WARNING
NEVER ride as a passenger.
Passengers can cause a loss of control, resulting in SEVERE INJURY or
DEAT H.
7175378
Tire Pressure/Load Alert
TIRE PRESSURE IN PSI (KPa):
Front: 7.0 psi (48.3 kPa)
Rear: 5.0 psi (34.5 kPa)
MAXIMUM WEIGHT CAPACITY 575 lbs. (261 kg)
INCLUDES WEIGHT OF OPERATOR, PASSENGER, CARGO AND
ACCESSORIES.
18
7175820
Safety Labels and Locations
Clutch Cover
Warning
(under seat)
Rack
Warning
Rack
Warning
Clutch Cover Alert
7175826
SAFETY
Rack Warning, Front and Rear
WARNING
• DO NOT TOW FROM RACK OR BUMPER. Vehicle damage or tipover may
result causing severe injury or death. Tow only from tow hooks or hitch.
• Max. Rack Loads: Front 120 lbs. (54 kg) Rear 240 lbs. (109 kg)
7175448
19
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
2x4
OUT
IN
Mode/Reverse
Override Switch
Main Key
Switch
4X4 Switch
Winch
Switch
Momentary High-Beam
Switch
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 switch.
Pressing the override switch while the throttle is open can cause loss of control,
which may result in serious injury or death. Always release the throttle before
pressing the override switch.
The reverse override switch also acts as a MODE button when held
down for approximately one half second. The transmission cannot be in
reverse when using the override switch as a MODE button.
4X4 Switch
Use the 4X4 switch to engage ADC 4X4, 4X4 or 2X4. See page 30. The
vehicle automatically engages 4X4 when operating in reverse if the
switch is set to either 4X4 position.
Momentary High Beam Switch
Press this switch with your left forefinger to activate the headlight high
beam. The lights will return to low beam when the switch is released.
Winch Switch
See page 61 for winch information.
20
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
Override
Switch
Engine
Stop
Switch
Headlight
Switch
Horn
Switch
Hazard
Switch
Turn
Signal
Switch
Switches
Main Key Switch
End all electrical power to the vehicle.
LIGHTS ON position turns the headlights on.
Start the engine. The headlights are not on in this position.
After starting the engine, release the key switch to the POSITION
LIGHTS ON position.
See page 45 for starting procedures.
Engine Stop Switch
The engine will not start or run when the
switch is in the OFF position.
OFF
RUN
Headlight Switch
The lights do not operate unless the main
key switch is on and the engine stop switch
is in the RUN position.
High Beam
Turn Signal Switch
Horn Switch
Hazard Warning Switch
flash simultaneously . Use this feature to alert others of an emergency or
other situation requiring caution.
Low Beam
Push the toggle switch either left or right to activate the
corresponding turn signal light. The indicator on the pod will also
flash. Return the toggle to the center position to end the signal.
Press the horn switch to sound the horn
Push the hazard warning switch to cause all turn signal lights to
21
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
2x4
Electronic Throttle Control
Mirrors
Use the mirrors to assist in traffic maneuvers. Always check and adjust
the mirrors before driving.
Throttle Lever
Failure to check or maintain proper operation of the throttle system can result in
an accident if the throttle lever sticks during operation. Check the lever for
proper operation before starting the engine. Check occasionally during
operation.
Do not start or operate the vehicle with sticking or improperly operating throttle
controls. Contact your dealer for repair if throttle problems arise.
Press the throttle lever to
increase engine speed and
vehicle movement.
Release the lever to reduce
engine speed and vehicle
movement.
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)
ETC causes the engine to stop if the throttle cable sticks in an open position when the operator releases the throttle lever.
The Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) stops the engine in the event of a throttle
system malfunction. Do not modify the ETC system or replace it with other
throttle mechanisms.
22
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
Foot
Brake
Brakes
Aggressively applying the brakes when backing down a hill may cause rear
tipover. Aggressively applying the brakes while moving forward may cause the
rear wheels to skid and result in loss of control.
Read this owner's manual and understand the operation of all brake systems on
this vehicle. Always use caution whenever applying the brakes.
Foot Brake
The all-wheel foot brake is located
on the right footrest. The foot brake
operates both front and rear brakes.
Press the brake pedal down with
your foot to apply the all-wheel
brakes.
If the rear wheels begin to skid or
slide while using the foot brake,
reduce brake pressure.
Hand Brake Lever
The hand brake operates both front
and rear brakes. Squeeze the brake
lever toward the handlebar to apply
the all-wheel brakes.
If the rear wheels begin to skid or
slide while using the brake, reduce
lever pressure.
Operating the vehicle with a spongy brake lever can result in loss of braking,
which could cause an accident. Never operate the vehicle with a spongy-feeling
brake lever. Always contact your dealer for service before operating the vehicle.
23
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
Brakes
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 for-
ward to engage the lock.
4. Release the brake lever.
5. To release the parking brake
lock, squeeze and release the brake lever.
Operating the vehicle while the parking brake is engaged could result in an
accident and serious injury or death. Always release the parking brake lock
before operating.
24
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
Gear
Selector
Electronic Power Steering (EPS)
Electronic power steering engages when the ignition key is turned to the
ON position. EPS remains engaged whether the vehicle is moving or
idle. See page 33 for EPS Warning Indicator information.
Automatic Transmission Gear Selector
The transmission gear selector is
located on the right side of the
vehicle.
H: High Gear
L: Low Gear
N: Neutral
R: Reverse
P: Park
Stop the vehicle, release the
throttle and move the shift lever
to the desired gear. See your
dealer if you experience any
shifting problems.
NOTICE: Shifting gears with the engine speed above idle or while the vehicle is
Whenever the vehicle is left unattended, always place the transmission
in PARK. The transmission is locked when it’s in PARK.
Belt Life
To extend belt life, use low forward gear when pulling a heavy load at
less than 11 km/h for extended periods and when operating uphill at a
slow speed.
moving could cause transmission damage.
25
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
Fuel Tank
Cap
Steering Lock
Lock the steering to prevent unauthorized use or theft of the vehicle.
1. Turn the handlebars to the full left position.
Tip: The handlebars may also be locked in the full left position.
2. Insert the steering lock key and turn it clockwise.
3. Remove the key.
Tip: Place the ste ering lock keys in a safe place. The lock must be replaced if
the keys are lost.
4. Reverse the procedure to unlock the steering.
The handlebars are locked in the fully turned position when the steering is
locked. Always unlock the steering before starting the engine.
Fuel Tank
Always refuel with the engine stopped,
and outdoors or in a well ventilated area.
Refuel on a level surface.
Remove the fuel tank cap and add fuel.
Use either leaded or unleaded gasoline
with a minimum pump octane number of
87=(R+ M/2) octane. Do not use fuel
with ethanol content greater th an 10 percent, such as E-85 fuel.
The fuel tank is designed to allow for the
normal expansion of fuel. Do not overfill. Do not fill the tank neck.
26
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
Latches
ADC Fluid Reservoir
Brake Fluid Reservoir
Radiator
Cap
Coolant
Bottle Cap
Electrical/Fuse/Relay
Front Rack/Compartment
Release the front rack latches
and remove the rack to gain
access to the front compartment. To reinstall the rack,
hold the rack as shown in the
illustration. Position the front
edge in the tabs, then push the
rack downward and secure
the latches.
Access the following components in the front compartment:
• Radiator cap
• Foot brake fluid reservoir
• ADC fluid reservoir
• Coolant recovery bottle cap
• Electrical/fuse/relay components
27
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
2x4
4X4
Switch
ADC 4X4
All Wheel Drive System
The All Wheel Drive system is
controlled by the 4X4 switch.
ADC 4X4 Mode
When the switch is on ADC 4X4,
the ADC system allows engine
braking to all four wheels when
the vehicle descends a hill or
incline. Always move the 4X4
switch to ADC 4X4 before
ascending or descending a hill.
See page 30.
4X4 Mode
When the switch is on 4X4, the
vehicle is in 4X4, and the 4X4
indicator icon in the instrument
cluster display will be visible.
When in 4X4, the demand drive
unit will automatically engage
any time the rear wheels lose
traction. When the rear wheels
regain traction, the demand drive
unit will automatically disengage.
There is no limit to the length of time the vehicle may remain in 4X4.
The vehicle automatically engages 4X4 when operating in reverse if the
switch is set to either 4X4 position.
2X4 Mode
When the switch is on 2X4, the vehicle is in two-wheel drive at all
times.
2x4
28
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