Polaris Sportsman 6x6 User Manual
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.
Copyright 2004 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.
2005 Sportsman 6x6 Owner’s Manual P/N 9919500
2
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. Visit our Web site at
www.polarisindustries.com.
Polaris Recreational Vehicles
S Snowmobiles
S All-terrain vehicles (ATVs)
S RANGER utility vehicles
S Watercraft
S Victory motorcycles
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, m aking it the finest vehicle 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 S ervice 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 i n 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 and POLARIS THE WAY OUT are registered trademarks of
Polaris Industries Inc.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
WELCOME 3.................................
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS 7........
SAFETY 8...................................
FEATURES A ND CONTROLS 33...............
OPERATION 49..............................
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS 68............
MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION 69.........
POLARIS PRODUCTS 113.....................
SPECIFICATIONS 114........................
TROUBLESHOOTING 116.....................
WARRANTY 120..............................
INDEX 129...................................
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6
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS
Record your ATV’s identification numbers and key number in the
spaces provided. 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, so if both keys are lost, t he ignition switch
must be replaced.
2
Vehicle Model Number:
Frame VIN (1):
Engine Serial Number (2):
Key Number (3):
1
31XX
3
7
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.
2
1
WARNING
S DO NOT TOW FROM RACK OR BUMPER.
1
Vehicle damage or tipover may result causing severe
injury or death. Tow only from tow hooks or hitch.
S Maximum Front Rack Load 75 lbs.
WARNING
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) CENTER 5 (34,5)
MAXIMUM WEIGHT CAPACITY (Gross Vehicle Weight
2
8
INCLUDING MACHINE, DRIVER AND CARGO IS 1965 LBS. (893 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 in bed, and firmly secured to the rack.
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 or box.
Read Owner’s Manual for more detailed loading information.
7172592
REAR 5 (34,5)
7172591
Safety Decals and Locations
3
WARNING
Improper vehicle use can result in SEVERE INJURY or DEATH.
3
NEVER:
DOperate on public roads. A collision can occur with another vehicle.
DCarry passengers. Passengers affect balance and steering and in-
crease risk of losing control.
DUSE ALCOHOL or DRUGS before or while operating this vehicle.
DOperate at speeds too fast for your skills or the conditions.
DOperate this vehicle on HILLS steeper than 15 degrees
To prevent flipover on hilly terrain, use throttle and brakes gradually.
ALWAYS:
DUse an approved HELMET AND PROTECTIVE GEAR.
DAvoid paved surfaces. Pavement may seriously affect handling and
control.
DUse proper RIDING TECHNIQUES to avoid vehicle overturns on
hills and rough terrain and in turns.
DUse OVERRIDE for reverse speed limiter with caution. To prevent
loss of control, never activate override button with open throttle.
DREVERSE operation can be dangerous, even at low speeds. Steer-
ing becomes difficult. To prevent flipover, avoid sharp turns.
PARKING BRAKE may relax when used for more than 5 minutes.
When parking on grades, leave shift in forward.
LOCATE AND READ OWNER’S MANUAL. FOLLOW ALL
INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS. IF OWNER’S MANUAL IS
MISSING, CONTACT A POLARIS DEALER FOR A
REPLACEMENT.
SAFETY
15°.
7172589
9
SAFETY
Safety Decals and Locations
5
4
8
4
WARNING
Operating this vehicle if you are under the
age of 16 increases your chance of severe
injury or death.
NEVER opera te this ve hicle if you are under
age 16.
This vehicle is equipped with a
Polaris Electronic Throttle Control
5
(ETC) to reduce the risk of a stuck or
“frozen” throttle. Please refer to your
owner’s manual for details.
ETC
7172588
7
6
78
WARNING
Pushing reverse
override button
may cause
sudden increases
in power and
traction if too
much throttle is
applied. Loss of
control or forward
flipover may
result, especially
in AWD. See
Owner’s Manual.
7172564
ALL WHEEL
DRIVE
SWITCH
Do not push switc h to
engage AWD if the rear
wheels are spinning.
This may cause severe
drive shaft and clutch
damage.
See your owner’s
manual.
7079780
6
Remove flammable containers from before refueling.
10
DPassengers can be thrown off.
This can cause serious injury
or death.
DNever carry passengers.
Maximum Box Load 800 lbs.
Safety Decals and Locations
S Moving parts hazard under belt-clutch guard. To
prevent serious injury, do not operate vehicle
with guard removed.
S 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.
SAFETY
WARNING
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)
(on hitch)
ATTENTION
S Operation of this vehicle without the
filter element will severely damage
the engine.
S Clean air filter often, more frequent
cleaning required in dusty conditions.
S Operation of this vehicle without en-
gine breather filter(s) can cause engine damage. Consult owner’s
manual for details.
(under seat)
NO STEP
7170509
S Specific carburetor jetting and adjust-
ments are required depending on temperature and altitude. See your owner’s
manual.
Factory setting:
40_ to 80_ F . at 0-3000 feet
(5_ to 27_ C. at 0-900 meters).
7079902
7172563
11
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 t he
markings Z2.1 or VESC 8).
1
2
3
5
4
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.
12
SAFETY
Operator Safety
WARNING
Failure to follow the warnings contained in this manual can result
in serious 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.
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 t horoughly inspected at specific
intervals.
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SAFETY
Operator Safety
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, on your vehicle or in this manual, alerts
you to the potential for personal injury.
WARNING
The safety alert warning indicates a potential hazard that may
result in serious injury or death.
CAUTION
The safety alert caution indicates a potential hazard that may
result in minor personal injury or damage to the vehicle.
CAUTION
A caution indicates a situation that may result in damage to the
vehicle.
NOTE:
A note will alert you to important information or instructions.
14
SAFETY
Operator Safety
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.
S Read this manual and all labels carefully, and follow the operating
procedures described.
S Never operate the S portsman 6x6 without proper instruction. Tak e a
training course. Beginners should receive training from a certified
instructor. Contact an authorized Polaris dealer or call Polaris at
1-800-342-3764 to find out about the training courses nearest you.
S Never allow anyone under 16 years of age to operate this vehicle.
S Never permit a guest to operate the vehicle unless the guest has read
this manual and all product labels and has completed a certified safety training course.
S Always avoid operating this vehicle on paved surfaces, including
sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, and streets.
S Never operate this vehicle on a public street, road or highway, in-
cluding a dirt or gravel road.
S Never operate this vehicle 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.
S Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while operating this ve-
hicle.
S Never operate at excessive speeds. Travel at speeds appropriate for
the terrain, visibility and operating conditions, and your experience.
S Never attempt wheelies, jumps or other stunts.
S Always inspect your vehicle 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.
S Always keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the foot-
rests of the vehicle during operation.
S Always travel slowly and use extra caution when operating on unfa-
miliar terrain. Be alert to changing terrain conditions.
S Never operate on excessively rough, slippery, or loose terrain.
S Always follow recommended turning procedures as described in this
manual. Practice turning at low speeds before attempting to turn at
faster speeds. Do not turn at excessive speeds.
15
SAFETY
Operator Safety
S Always have the vehicle inspected by an authorized Polaris dealer if
it’s been involved in an accident.
S Never operate on hills too steep for the vehicle or for your abilities.
Practice on smaller hills before attempting larger hills.
S Always follow proper procedures for climbing hills. Check the ter-
rain carefully before ascending a hill. Never climb hills with excessively 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.
S Always 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 t o one side. Travel straight down the hill when possible.
S Always 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 vehicle. Never attempt to turn the
vehicle around on any hill until you’ve mastered (on level ground)
the turning technique outlined in this manual. Avoid crossing the
side of a steep hill when possible.
S Always use proper procedures if the vehicle stalls or rolls backwards
while climbing a hill. To avoid stalling, maintain a steady speed
when climbing a hill. Always dismount on the uphill side, or to either side if the vehicle is pointed straight uphill. Turn the vehicle
around and remount following the procedure described in this manual.
S Always check for obstacles before operating in a new area. Never
attempt to operate over large obstacles, such as rocks or fallen t rees.
S Always be alert to the potential for skidding or sliding. On slippery
surfaces (like ice), travel slowly and use extra caution to reduce the
chance of skidding or sliding out of control.
S Avoid operating the vehicle through deep or fast-flowing water. If
it’s unavoidable, travel slowly, balance your weight carefully, avoid
sudden movements, and maintain a slow and steady forward motion.
Do not make sudden t urns or stops, and do not make sudden throttle
changes.
16
SAFETY
Operator Safety
S Wet brakes may have reduced stopping ability. Test your brakes af-
ter leaving water. If necessary, apply them lightly several times to
allow friction t o dry out the pads.
S Always check for obstacles or people behind the vehicle before oper-
ating in reverse. When it’s safe to proceed in reverse, move slowly
and avoid turning at sharp angles.
S Always use the size and type of tires specified for your vehicle, and
always maintain proper tire pressure.
S Never modify this vehicle t hrough improper installation or use of
accessories.
S 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 hauling cargo or towing.
Allow a greater distance for braking.
S Always remove the ignition key when the vehicle is not in use to
prevent unauthorized use or accidental starting.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ATV SAFETY , call the Consumer 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 Sportsman 6x6 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 Sportsman 6x6 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.
17
SAFETY
Operator Safety
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Operating this vehicle without proper instruction.
WHAT CAN
The risk of an accident is greatly increased if the operator does
not know how to operate the vehicle properly in different
situations and on different types of terrain.
HOW TO AVOID THE
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 Polaris dealer or call Polaris at 1-800-342-3764.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Failure to follow the age recommendations for this vehicle.
WHAT CAN
Severe injury and/or death could occur if a person under the age
of 16 operates the Sportsman 6x6.
Even though a child may be within the recommended age group
for operating some vehicles, he/she may not have the skills,
abilities, or judgment needed to operate the Sportsman 6x6 safely
and could be susceptible to accident or injury.
HOW TO AVOID THE
No one under the age of 16 should operate a Polaris Sportsman
6x6.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
18
Operator Safety
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Carrying a passenger on a Sportsman 6x6.
WHAT CAN
Carrying a passenger greatly reduces the operator’s ability to
balance and control the vehicle, which could cause an accident
and injury to the operator and/or passenger.
HOW TO AVOID THE
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.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Operating a Sportsman 6x6 on paved surfaces, including
sidewalks, paths, parking lots, and driveways.
WHAT CAN
Sportsman 6x6 tires are designed for off-road use. Operating on
paved surfaces may seriously affect the handling and control of
the vehicle and could result in loss of control, accident, and/or
injury.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Avoid operating the Sportsman 6x6 on pavement. If it’s
unavoidable, travel slowly and avoid sudden turns or stops.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
SAFETY
WARNING
Safe operation of this rider active vehicle requires good
judgement and physical skills. Persons with cognitive or physical
disabilities who operate this vehicle have an increased risk of
overturns and loss of control, which could result in serious injury
or death.
19
SAFETY
Operator Safety
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Operating this vehicle on public streets, roads or highways.
WHAT CAN
The vehicle could collide with another vehicle.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Never operate the Sportsman 6x6 on any public street, road or
highway, including dirt and gravel roads.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Operating this vehicle without wearing an approved helmet, eye
protection and protective clothing.
WHAT CAN
Operating a Sportsman 6x6 without an approved helmet
increases the risk of a severe head injury or death in the event of
an accident.
Operating without eye protection could result in an accident and
could increase the chance of a severe injury in the event of an
accident.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Always wear an approved helmet that fits properly.
Always wear eye protection (goggles or face shield), gloves,
boots, long-sleeved shirt or jacket, and long pants.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
20
SAFETY
Operator Safety
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Stalling or rolling backwards while climbing a hill.
WHAT CAN
Stalling or rolling while climbing a hill could result in vehicle
overturn.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Maintain steady speed when climbing a hill.
Ifyouloseallforward
Keep your body weight toward the front of the vehicle (uphill).
Apply the brakes. After the vehicle has completely stopped, lock
the parking brake.
If you begin rolling
Keep your body weight toward the front of the vehicle (uphill).
Do not apply engine power.
Do not apply the rear brakes.
Gradually apply the service brake. When fully stopped, apply the
auxiliary brake as well, and then lock the parking brake.
Dismount on the uphill side, or to either side if the vehicle is
pointed straight uphill.
Turn the vehicle around and remount, following the procedure
described in the owner’s manual. See page 62. In the event of
an accident, have an authorized Polaris dealer inspect the entire
vehicle for possible damage, including (but not limited to) brakes,
throttle and steering.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
speed:
backwards:
21
SAFETY
Operator Safety
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Operating the Sportsman 6x6 at excessive speeds.
WHAT CAN
Excessive speed increases the operator’s chance of losing
control of the vehicle, which can result in an accident.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Always operate the vehicle at a speed that’s proper for the
terrain, visibility and operating conditions, and your experience.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Improperly operating in reverse.
WHAT CAN
The Sportsman 6x6 could collide with an obstacle or person,
resulting in severe injury.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Before shifting into reverse gear, always check for obstacles or
people behind the vehicle. When it’s safe to proceed, back
slowly.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Failure to inspect the vehicle before operating.
Failure to properly maintain the vehicle.
WHAT CAN
Poor maintenance increases the possibility of an accident or
equipment damage.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Always inspect your vehicle before each use to make sure it’s in
safe operating condition.
Always follow the inspection and maintenance procedures and
schedules described in the owner’s manual.
22
HAPPEN
HAZARD
Operator Safety
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Removing hands from the handlebars or feet from the footrests
during operation.
WHAT CAN
Removing even one hand or foot can reduce ability to control the
vehicle or could cause loss of balance and ejection from the
vehicle.
If the operator’s foot is not firmly planted on the footrest, it could
come into contact with the rear wheels and lead to accident or
injury.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Always keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the
footrests of the vehicle during operation.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Skidding or sliding.
WHAT CAN
Skidding or sliding can cause loss of control.
If the tires regain traction unexpectedly, the vehicle could
overturn.
HOW TO AVOID THE
On slippery surfaces such as ice, travel slowly and use extra
caution to reduce the chance of skidding or sliding out of control.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
SAFETY
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Failure to use extra caution when operating the vehicle on
unfamiliar terrain.
WHAT CAN
Unfamiliar terrain may contain hidden rocks, bumps, or holes that
could cause loss of control or overturn.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Travel slowly and use extra caution when operating on unfamiliar
terrain. Always be alert to changing terrain conditions.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
23
SAFETY
Operator Safety
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Failure to use extra caution when operating on excessively rough,
slippery or loose terrain.
WHAT CAN
Operating on excessively rough, slippery or loose terrain could
cause loss of traction or loss of control, which could result in an
accident or overturn.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Do not operate on excessively rough, slippery or loose terrain
until you’ve learned and practiced the skills necessary to control
thevehicleonsuchterrain.
Always use extra caution on rough, slippery or loose terrain.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Turning improperly.
WHAT CAN
Improper turns could cause loss of control and lead to a collision
or overturn.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Always follow proper procedures for turning as described in the
owner’s manual.
Practice turning at slow speeds before attempting to turn at faster
speeds.
Never turn at excessive speed.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
24
SAFETY
Operator Safety
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Operating on excessively steep hills.
WHAT CAN
The vehicle may overturn and cause serious injury or death.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Never operate on hills too steep for the vehicle or for your
abilities. Never operate the Sportsman 6x6 on hills steeper than
15_.
Practice on small hills before attempting larger hills.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Climbing hills improperly.
WHAT CAN
Improper hill climbing could cause loss of control or overturn.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Always follow proper procedures for climbing hills as described in
the owner’s manual.
Always check the terrain carefully before ascending any hill.
Never climb hills with excessively slippery or loose surfaces.
Shift your weight forward.
Never open the throttle suddenly while traveling uphill. The
vehicle could flip over backwards.
Never go over the top of any hill at high speed. An obstacle, a
sharp drop, or another vehicle or person could be on the other
side of the hill.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
25
SAFETY
Operator Safety
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Traveling downhill improperly.
WHAT CAN
Improperly descending a hill could cause loss of control or
overturn.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Always follow proper procedures for traveling down hills as
described in the owner’s manual.
Always check the terrain carefully before descending a hill.
Shift your weight backward.
Never travel down a hill at high speed.
Avoid traveling down a hill at an angle, which would cause the
vehicle to lean sharply to one side. Travel straight down the hill
when possible.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
26
Operator Safety
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Improperly crossing or turning on hills.
WHAT CAN
Improperly crossing or turning as hills could cause loss of control
or overturn.
HOW TO AVOID THE
Never attempt to turn the Sportsman 6x6 around on any hill until
you’ve mastered the turning technique (on level ground) as
described in the owner’s manual. See page 62. Use extra
caution when turning on any hill.
Avoid crossing the side of a steep hill. If it’s unavoidable, always
follow proper procedures as described in the owner’s manual.
Avoid hills with excessively slippery or loose surfaces.
Shift your weight to the uphill side of the vehicle.
HAPPEN
HAZARD
SAFETY
27
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