Market Position:
Comprehensive technical resource for owners and independent repair shops seeking to service and maintain the 2011 Polaris Sportsman 550 series ATVs.
Competitive Analysis:
Presents itself as the most comprehensive and cost-effective alternative to dealership service manuals, offering factory-level information.
Key Features:
Step-by-step instructions, exploded views, electrical schematics, troubleshooting guides, and extensive coverage of all major vehicle systems.
Cost Effectiveness:
Positioned as a high-value resource, saving owners significant costs compared to professional repair services.
Covered Models:
Sportsman 550, Sportsman 550 EPS, Sportsman 550 EPS International, Sportsman X2 550, Sportsman X2 550 International, Sportsman Touring 550, Sportsman Touring 550 International
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Accessibility:
Viewable on PC, Mac, tablet, or smartphone; printable for hard copy reference.
Engine Systems:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Cooling System, Engine Mechanicals
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission, Clutching (PVT - Polaris Variable Transmission), Final Drive
Chassis Systems:
Body/Frame, Steering, Suspension, Brakes
Electrical Systems:
Complete Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams
Fuel System:
EFI System, Fuel Pump, Injectors, Throttle Body, Fuel Lines.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, muffler, catalytic converter (if applicable).
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Repair Procedures:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Clutch Service, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, EFI System Diagnostics
Component Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major components like the engine, transmission, differentials, and steering system.
Torque Specifications:
Critical torque specifications for engine, drivetrain, and chassis fasteners are provided to ensure proper assembly.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and component rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and exploded views.
Diagnostic Tools Required:
While the manual provides diagnostic procedures, it may reference specialized Polaris diagnostic tools or testers for advanced EFI troubleshooting, which are detailed within the manual.
Troubleshooting Charts:
Includes organized troubleshooting charts that correlate symptoms to potential causes and recommended repair actions.
Exploded Views:
Abundant exploded view diagrams illustrating component relationships and providing part identification for assembly and disassembly.
Bodywork Repair:
Fenders, body panels, racks, seat assembly, bumpers, lighting components.
Steering Components:
Handlebars, tie rods, steering shaft, steering rack (if applicable), EPS components.
Suspension Components:
A-arms, shocks, bushings, ball joints, wheel bearings.
Brake System:
Hydraulic brake system, brake lines, calipers, master cylinder, brake pads, brake fluid specifications.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, including lighting, ignition, charging system, EFI, and accessories.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve, single-cylinder (ProStar engine family)
Engine Displacement:
549cc
Bore X Stroke:
Refer to manual for exact bore and stroke, but typically around 95mm x 79mm for this engine family.
Horsepower:
Approx. 40-42 HP (Varies slightly by model/tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 33-35 lb-ft (Varies slightly by model/tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Length:
Varies by model (e.g., Sportsman 550 approx. 83 in / 210.8 cm, X2 approx. 83 in / 210.8 cm, Touring approx. 88 in / 223.5 cm)
Width:
Varies by model (e.g., Sportsman 550 approx. 46 in / 116.8 cm, X2 approx. 46 in / 116.8 cm, Touring approx. 46 in / 116.8 cm)
Height:
Varies by model (e.g., Sportsman 550 approx. 49.5 in / 125.7 cm)
Dry Weight:
Varies by model (e.g., Sportsman 550 approx. 670 lbs / 304 kg, X2 approx. 705 lbs / 320 kg, Touring approx. 735 lbs / 333 kg)
Towing Capacity:
1500 lbs / 680 kg
Rack Capacity Front:
200 lbs / 90.7 kg
Rack Capacity Rear:
400 lbs / 181.4 kg
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 100 hours or 12 months (refer to manual for exact specifications)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; generally based on hours or mileage
Air Filter Maintenance:
Frequent checks and cleaning recommended based on operating conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
Polaris PS-4 Oil (or SAE 5W-50 API CI-4 Synthetic) - Check manual for exact grade and API rating.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 US quarts / 2.4 Liters (with filter change) - Verify in manual.
Gearcase Oil Type:
Polaris Demand Drive Fluid (Front) / Polaris Angle Drive Fluid (Rear) - Check manual for exact specifications.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Common Issues:
Starter solenoid failures, fuel pump issues, PVT belt wear, potential electrical connector corrosion in wet environments. Manual addresses diagnosis and repair for these.
Brand Heritage:
Polaris has a long history in powersports, dating back to 1954. They are a major manufacturer of ATVs, snowmobiles, and off-road vehicles.
Model Evolution:
The Sportsman line has been a cornerstone of Polaris's ATV offerings, known for its comfort, independent suspension, and versatility. The 550cc engine represents a significant power upgrade in this lineup.
Production Years:
The 550cc engine platform was introduced prior to 2011 and continued for several years thereafter.