Segment:
Mid-size Utility ATV
Target Audience:
Recreational riders, farmers, hunters, trail enthusiasts seeking a capable and reliable ATV
Key Competitors:
Honda Foreman, Yamaha Kodiak, Suzuki King Quad, Kawasaki Brute Force (similar displacement classes)
Power Delivery:
Known for its smooth and responsive power delivery from the 400 HO engine.
Handling Ride Comfort:
Independent Front Suspension (IFS) and MacPherson strut front suspension contribute to good ride quality and handling over varied terrain.
Versatility:
Suitable for a range of tasks from trail riding to light utility work, with ample rack capacity.
Durability Reliability:
Polaris Sportsman line is generally regarded for its robust build and durability.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, top-end and bottom-end procedures, valve adjustment, piston and cylinder diagnosis, lubrication system, cooling system (liquid-cooled)
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI), throttle body, fuel pump, fuel filter replacement, pressure testing, injector diagnosis
Transmission:
PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission) system, belt inspection and replacement, clutch maintenance (primary and secondary), gear case lubrication and service
Drivetrain:
AWD system, front differential, rear differential, driveshafts, universal joints, CV boots inspection and replacement
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorber adjustment and replacement, control arm inspection, ball joint service, bushings
Brakes:
Hydraulic braking system, front and rear disc brakes, brake pad replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush and replacement, master cylinder
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting system, ignition system, sensors (TPS, MAP, etc.)
Steering:
Steering column, tie rods, steering linkage, power steering system (if applicable, check specific sub-model for EPS)
Body And Chassis:
Frame inspection and repair, body panel removal and installation, seat removal, rack and fender components
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, coolant hoses, bleeding procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, air filter cleaning/replacement, lubrication points, battery checks
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable via diagnostic tool)
Major Repairs:
Complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, differential repairs, suspension component replacement
Component Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed instructions for removing, inspecting, repairing, and reinstalling all major and minor components
Torquing Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for certain procedures
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, testing of sensors and actuators
Rebuild Procedures:
Full engine, transmission, and differential rebuild instructions with detailed component specifications and clearances
Customization Modifications:
May include some information or considerations for common modifications, but primarily focused on stock repair.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, Single Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled, SOHC, 4-Valve
Bore X Stroke:
78 mm x 75.6 mm (typical for this engine family)
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approximately 25-30 HP (claimed figures vary slightly, but this is the general range for the 400 HO)
Torque:
Around 23-25 lb-ft (estimated)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, Octane Rating 87 minimum
Throttle Control:
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) on some later models, but typically cable-actuated for 2012-2013 400 HO.
Atv Safety Certification:
Meets ANSI standards for ATVs. (Note: Not road-legal unless modified and registered for street use.)
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear, with steel-braided lines for enhanced feel and durability.
Engine Braking:
Integrated engine braking provided by the PVT system for controlled descents.
Lighting:
Dual 25W headlights, 8W brakelight/taillight.
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider comfort and control with intuitive hand controls and foot placement.
Chassis Design:
Sturdy chassis and suspension geometry designed for stability.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 100 hours or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check owner's manual for severe use intervals.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Inspect every 25 hours, clean or replace as needed. More frequent in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 100 hours or annually. Check for wear and proper gap.
Pvt Belt Inspection:
Inspect every 25 hours, check for wear, cracks, or glazing. Replace as needed. Service life varies greatly with usage.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 12-24 months or as per manual guidelines to maintain braking performance.
Tire Pressure Check:
Check before every ride. Recommended pressures vary by tire size, typically around 5-7 psi.
Engine Oil Type:
Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic 2W-50 (or equivalent API SG, JASO MA certified oil).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.2 US quarts (2.1 liters) with filter change.
Gearcase Oil:
Polaris Gearcase Lube (GL-4) SAE 80W-90 (or equivalent).
Gearcase Oil Capacity:
Check manual for exact capacity (typically around 10-12 oz).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Pvt Belt Wear:
PVT belt wear and premature failure can occur with aggressive riding or improper clutch alignment.
Wiring Harness Issues:
Some older Polaris models have reported issues with vibration-related wiring harness chafing, requiring protective measures.
Susceptibility To Water Ingress:
Like many ATVs, careful attention to sealing electrical components and air intakes is necessary when operating in deep water.
Polarist Atv Legacy:
Polaris is a pioneer in the ATV industry, having introduced the first factory-built ATV, the Trail Boss, in 1985. The Sportsman line has been a cornerstone of their offerings for decades.
Sportsman Line Development:
The Sportsman 400 HO represents an evolution of Polaris's popular mid-size utility ATV, building upon previous iterations with engine upgrades (HO - High Output) and chassis refinements. The 400cc engine size has been a consistent offering in their lineup, providing a balance of power and efficiency.
Manufacturing Location:
Polaris vehicles are primarily manufactured in the United States.
Model Years Covered:
Specifically covers the 2012 and 2013 model years of the Polaris Sportsman 400 HO.
