Polaris Sportsman 9921828 User Manual
2
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California 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 1-800-3423764 for assistance.
WELCOME
Thank you for purchasing a Polaris vehicle, and welcome to our worldwide family of Polaris owners. We proudly produce an exciting line of
utility and recreational products.
• Snowmobiles
• All-terrain vehicles (ATVs)
• RANGER utility vehicles
• Victory motorcycles
We believe Polaris sets a standard of excellence for all utility and recre-
ational 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 complete line of apparel, parts and accessories, available through our online store at www .purepolaris.co m. Have
your accessories and clothing delivered right to your door!
1
POLARIS and POLARIS THE WAY OUT are registered trademarks of Polaris Industries Inc.
Copyright 2008 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.
Printed in U.S.A.
2009 Sportsman 500 EFI Owner’s Manual
P/N 9921828
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Features and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Emission Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Polaris Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Maintenance Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
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.
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
WARNING
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 can occur quickly , even during
routine maneuvers like turning, or driving on hills or over obstacles, if you fail to
take proper precautions.
• Read this owner’s manual. Understand all safety warnings, precautions and
operating procedures before operating a Polaris ATV. Keep this manual with
the ATV.
• Never operate an ATV without proper instruction. Take a training course.
Purchasers of a new Polaris ATV and their eligible family members are
entitled to take the ATV RiderCourse
(800) 887-2887 or visit www.atvsafety .org for information on enrollment in the
ATV RiderCoursesm.
• This vehicle is an ADULT VEHICLE ONLY . Operation is prohibited for anyone
under 16 years of age.
• Never permit a guest to operate the ATV unless the guest has read this
manual and all product labels and has completed a certified safety training
course.
sm
. Contact ATV Enrollment Express at
5
INTRODUCTION
####
VIN
Engine Serial Number
Key Number
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: ___________________________________________________________
6
SAFETY
Safety Training
ATV safety training is a top priority for Polaris. When you purchased
your new ATV, your dealer instructed you on the authorized ATV Rider-
Course
ing is included in the purchase price of your ATV. Polaris strongly
encourages you and your eligible family members who will be riding
the ATV to take the ATV RiderCourse
printed materials that explain safe operating procedures. You should
review this information on a regular basis.
If you purchased a used Polaris ATV, you can take the ATV RiderCours-
e
www.atvsafety.org. Purchasers of a used Polaris ATV will be charged
for this training.
A Polaris ATV is an off-road vehicle. Familiarize yourself with all laws
and regulations concerning the operation of this vehicle in your area.
W e 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.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ATV SAFETY, call the Consumer Product Safety Commission at 1-800-638-2772, or visit
www.cp sc.gov, visit www.atvsafety.org, or call Polaris at 1-800-342-
3764.
sm
available to you and your eligible family members. This train-
sm
. You were also provided with
sm
by calling ATV Enrollment Express at (800) 887-2887 or by visiting
7
SAFETY
Helmet
Eye Protection
Gloves
Boots
Long Pants
Long
Sleeves
E
4
051039
0006.31
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 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.
8
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.
Equipment Modifications
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.
The warranty on your Polaris ATV is terminated if an y equipment has
been added to the vehicle, or if any modifications have been made to the
vehicle, that increase its speed or power.
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.
9
SAFETY
WARNING
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 proper operating procedures.
Operating Without Instruction
Operating this ATV without proper instruction
increases the risk of an accident. The operator
must understand how to operate the ATV properly
in different situations and on different types of
terrain.
Beginning and inexperienced operators should
complete the recommended safety training before
operating this vehicle. See page 7.
Never permit a guest to operate the ATV unless the
guest has read this manual and all product labels
and has completed a certified safety training
course.
Age Restrictions
This vehicle is an ADULT VEHICLE ONLY.
Operation is prohibited for anyone under 16 years
of age.
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.
10
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 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.
Exposure to Exhaust
Engine exhaust fumes are poisonous and can cause loss of consciousness or
death in a short time. Never start the engine or let it run in an enclosed area.
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to cause
cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Operate this vehicle only
outdoors or in well-ventilated areas.
Failure to Inspect Before Operating
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.
Always follow all inspection and maintenance
procedures and schedules described in the
owner's manual.
11
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 or face shield).
Using Alcohol or Drugs
Operating the ATV after consuming
alcohol or drugs could adversely affect
operator judgment, reaction time,
balance and perception.
Never consume alcohol or drugs before
or while operating an ATV.
Carrying a Passenger
Carrying a passenger greatly reduces the
operator's ability to balance and control the
ATV, which may result in an accident or
overturn.
Never carry a passenger on this ATV.
12
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 A T V on pavement. AT V
tires are designed for off-road use. If it's
unavoidable, travel slowly and avoid sudden
turns or stops.
Operating on Public Roads
Operating this ATV on public streets, roads
or highways could result in a collision with
another vehicle.
Never operate the ATV on any public street,
road or highway, including dirt and gravel
roads. In many states it's unlawful to
operate ATVs on public streets, roads and
highways.
Operating at Excessive
Speeds
Operating the ATV at excessive speeds
increases the operator's risk of losing
control.
Always operate at a speed that's
appropriate for the terrain, the visibility and
operating conditions, and your experience.
SAFETY
13
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
AT V. If the operator's foot is not firmly
planted on the footrest, it could also contact
the rear wheels.
Never remove your hands from the
handlebars while operating, and always
keep both feet on the footrests.
Turning Improperly
Turning improperly could cause loss of
traction, loss of control, accident or overturn.
Always follow proper procedures for turning
as described in the owner's manual.
Never turn abruptly or at sharp angles. Never
turn at high speeds. Practice turning at slow
speeds before attempting to turn at faster
speeds.
Jumps and Stunts
Attempting wheelies, jumps and other
stunts increases the risk of an accident or
overturn.
Never attempt wheelies, jumps, or other
stunts. Avoid exhibition driving.
Improper Hill Climbing
Improper hill climbing could cause loss of
control or overturn. Always follow proper
procedures for climbing hills as described in
the owner's manual. See page 55. Always
move the 4X4 switch to ADC 4X4 before
ascending or descending a hill.
14
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
Descending Hills Improperly
Improperly descending a hill could cause loss
of control or overturn.
• Always follow proper procedures for traveling down hills as described in the own e r 's
manual. NOTE: A special technique is
required when braking while traveling downhill. See page 57.
• Always descend a hill with the transmission
in forward gear. Do not descend a hill with
the transmission in neutral. Always move the
4X4 switch to ADC 4X4 before ascending or
descending a hill. See page 36.
• Always check the terrain carefull y before descending a hill.
• Shift your weight rearward.
• 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.
Crossing Hillsides
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 hillside is unavoidable, always follow
proper procedures as described in the owner's
manual. See page 56.
Never attempt to turn the ATV around on any hill
until you've mastered the turning technique (on
level ground) as described in the owner's
manual. See page 58.
15
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.
• Always move the 4X4 switch to ADC 4X4 before
ascending or descending a hill. See page 36.
If all forward speed is lost:
• Keep body weight uphill.
• Apply the brakes.
• Lock the parking brake when fully stopped.
• Dismount on uphill side, or to either side if ATV is pointed straight uphill.
• Turn the ATV around and remount, following the procedure described in the
owner's manual. See page 58.
If the ATV begins rolling downhill:
• Keep body weight uphill.
• Never apply engine power.
• Never apply the rear brake while rolling backwards. Apply the single-lever
brake gradually.
• When fully stopped, apply the rear brake as well, and then lock the parking
brake.
• Dismount on uphill side, or to either side if ATV is pointed straight uphill.
• Turn the ATV around and remount, following the procedure described in the
owner's manual. See page 58.
Operating on Steep Hills
Operating on excessively steep hills could cause
an overturn.
Never operate on hills too steep for the ATV or for
your abilities. Never operate the ATV on hills
steeper than 25 degrees.
16
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 caution on rough,
slippery or loose terrain.
Operating in Unfamiliar Terrain
Failure to use extra caution when operating on
unfamiliar terrain could result in an accident or
overturn.
Unfamiliar terrain may contain hidden rocks,
bumps, or holes that could cause loss of control or
overturn.
Travel slowly and use extra caution when operating
on unfamiliar terrain. Always be alert to changing
terrain conditions.
SAFETY
17
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 61.
Before shifting into reverse gear, always check for obstacles or people behind
the ATV. When it's safe to proceed, back slowly.
Improper Tire Maintenance
Operating this ATV with improper tires
or with improper or uneven tire
pressure could cause loss of control or
accident.
Always use the size and type of tires
specified for your ATV.
Always maintain proper tire pressure as
described in the owner's manual and
on safety labels.
18
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
Operating Over Obstacles
Improperly operating over obstacles could cause loss of control or overturn.
Before operating in a new area, check for obstacles. Avoid operating over large
obstacles such as rocks and fallen trees. If unavoidable, use extreme caution
and always follow proper operating procedures as outlined in this manual. See
page 60.
Skidding or Sliding
Skidding or sliding can cause loss of control or overturn (if tires regain traction
unexpectedly).
On slippery surfaces such as ice or loose gravel, travel slowly and use extra
caution to reduce the chance of skidding or sliding. Do not operate on
excessively slippery surfaces.
Operating Through Deep Water
Operating the ATV through deep or fastflowing 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 maximum depth (see page
59):
• Travel slowly.
• Balance your weight carefully.
• Avoid 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. After leaving water, test the
brakes. Apply them lightly several times while driving slowly. The friction will
help dry out the pads.
19
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
Improper Cargo Loading
Overloading the ATV or carrying/towing cargo improperly may cause changes in
handling, which could cause loss of control or an accident.
• Never exceed the stated load capacity for this ATV.
• Cargo should be properly distributed and securely attached.
• Reduce speed when carrying cargo or pulling a trailer. Allow a greater distance for braking.
• Always follow the instructions in the owner's manual for carrying cargo or pulling a trailer.
Operating on Frozen Bodies of Water
Operating on frozen bodies of water may result in serious injury or death if the
ATV and/or the operator fall through the ice.
Never operate the ATV on a frozen body of water.
Poor Visibility
Operating the ATV in darkness or inclement weather could result in a collision
or accident, especially if operating on a road or street. This ATV is not equipped
with highway-approved lights. Operate this vehicle off-road only. Use caution
and drive at reduced speeds in conditions of reduced visibility such as fog, rain
and darkness. Clean headlights frequently and replace burned out headlamps
promptly.
20
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
Operating a Damaged ATV
Operating a damaged ATV can result in an accident. After any overturn or
accident, have a qualified service dealer inspect the entire machine for possible
damage, including (but not limited to) brakes, throttle and steering systems.
Physical Skills
Safe operation of this rider-active vehicle requires good judgement and physical
skills. Persons with cognitive or physical disabilities who operate this veh icle
have an increased risk of overturn and loss of control.
Hot Exhaust Systems
Exhaust system components are very hot during and after use of the vehicle.
Hot components can cause burns and fire. Do not touch hot exhaust system
components. Always keep combustible materials away from the exhaust
system. Use caution when traveling through tall grass, especially dry grass.
Unauthorized Use of the ATV
Leaving the keys in the ignition can lead to unauthorized use of the vehicle,
which could result in an accident or overturn. Always remove the ignition key
when the vehicle is not in use.
21
SAFETY
Safety Labels and Locations
Warning labels have been placed on the ATV for your protection. Read
and follow the instructions of the labels on the ATV carefully. If any of
the labels depicted in this manual differ from the labels on your ATV,
always read and follow the instructions of the labels on the ATV.
If an informational or graphic 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.
General Warning/Discretionary Warning
WARNING
Improper ATV use can result in SEVERE INJURY or DEATH
ALWAYS USE AN APPROVED HELMET AND PROTECTIVE GEAR
NEVER USE ON PUBLIC ROADS
NEVER CARRY PASSENGERS
NEVER USE WITH DRUGS OR ALCOHOL
NEVER operate:
• without proper training or instruction
• at speeds too fast for your skills or the conditions
• on public roads - a collision can occur with another vehicle
• with a passenger - passengers affect balance and steering and increase risk
of losing control
ALWAYS:
• use proper riding techniques to avoid vehicle overturns on hills and rough terrain and in turns
• avoid paved surfaces - pavement may seriously affect handling and control
LOCATE AND READ OWNER’S MANUAL.
FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS.
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
becomes difficult. To prevent loss of control, avoid sudden braking or sharp
turns.
7175553
22
Safety Labels and Locations
+
+
Tire Pressure/L oad
Warning
General Warning/Discretionary Warning
Tire Pressure/Load Warning
WARNING
Improper tire pressure or overloading can cause loss of control.
Loss of control can result in severe injury or death.
• Cold tire pressure:
Front: 5.0 psi (34.5 kPa)
Rear: 5.0 psi (34.5 kPa)
• Maximum weight capacity: 485 lbs. (220 kg)
SAFETY
7175642
23
SAFETY
+
“No Passenger”
Warning
+
Clutch Cover
Warning
+
Age 16 Warning
+
+
Rack
Warning
Rack
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
Age 16 Warning
WARNING
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.
7175374
24
SAFETY
Safety Labels 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, which can result in serious injury or
death.
NO STEP
7172563
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 90 lbs. (41 kg) Rear 180 lbs. (82 kg)
7172572
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
25
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
Mode/Reverse
Override
Switch
Work Light
Switch
(if equipped)
Main Key Switch
Engine
Stop Switch
Headlight
Switch
4X4
Switch
Switches
Mode/Reverse Override Switch
This vehicle is equipped with a reverse speed limiter system.To gain
additional power while backing, depress the override switch.
WARNING! Pressing the override button 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 button.
The override switch also allows activation of 4X4 in reverse, if the 4X4
switch is on. This switch is also used to toggle through the modes of the
rider information center. See page 37.
4X4 Switch
Use the 4X4 switch to engage ADC 4X4, 4X4 or 2X4. See page 36.
26
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
OFF OFFRUN
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 electrical power to the vehicle, including lights.
Main Key Switch
Use the main key switch to start the engine. See page 51 for starting procedures.
Work Light Switch
Use the work light switch (if equipped) to turn the work light on or off.
The work light is located at the rear of the vehicle. Turn the light on
while loading and unloading cargo in low light situations. Turn the work
light off when driving.
Headlight Switch
Use the headlight switch to turn the lights on and off and to change the
lights from high beam to low beam. The key must be in the ON position
and the engine stop switch must be in the RUN position to operate the
headlights.
27
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