This manual covers the 2008 Sportsman 300 and 400 models, renowned for their robust engineering and versatility in off-road applications. As part of the esteemed Sportsman line, these all-terrain vehicles are built for reliable performance and durability, offering a comfortable and capable riding experience for various terrains and tasks. The engineering quality reflects a long-standing commitment to innovation in the powersports industry, ensuring these ATVs are well-equipped for both recreational use and utility work.
This comprehensive factory service manual provides essential information for maintaining and repairing your 2008 Sportsman. It details procedures for general information, scheduled maintenance, and in-depth repairs across all major systems, including the fuel, cooling, engine, transmission, clutch, final drive, body, frame, steering, suspension, brakes, and electrical systems. With clear, step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting guides, and detailed wiring diagrams, this manual is an indispensable resource for owners and technicians alike, enabling efficient and accurate upkeep of the vehicle.
Product Type:
Repair Manual / Factory Service Manual
Positioning:
Essential resource for owners and technicians seeking to maintain and repair the 2008 Polaris Sportsman 300 and 400 models.
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair information, enabling cost savings and ensuring proper maintenance.
Features:
Instant download, permanent access, comprehensive coverage, detailed illustrations, step-by-step procedures.
Models Covered:
2008 Polaris Sportsman 300 H.O., 2008 Polaris Sportsman 400 H.O., 2008 Polaris Sportsman 300, 2008 Polaris Sportsman 400
Chapters Covered:
General Information, Maintenance, Fuel System, Cooling System, Engine, Transmission, Clutching, Final Drive, Body and Frame, Steering and Suspension, Brakes, Electrical, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
Detailed page count not specified, but implies comprehensive coverage.
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Language:
English (Assumed based on product description)
Delivery Method:
Digital Download
File Format:
PDF (implied by "simple PDF manual" and no special software required)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Transmission, Clutching, Final Drive
Chassis:
Body and Frame, Steering and Suspension, Brakes
Electrical:
Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle components and systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting guides for common issues.
Disassembly Reassembly:
Removal and installation procedures for components.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to advanced repair and diagnostics, suitable for DIY and professional technicians.
Compatibility:
Viewable on any computer, tablet, or smartphone without special software.
Quality:
High-quality pictures, diagrams, and illustrations.
Type:
Digital (Downloadable)
Engine Type:
Single-cylinder, 4-stroke (Specific displacement for 300/400 H.O. and non-H.O. variants expected within manual, typically around 287cc for 300 and 375cc for 400, though H.O. variants may differ slightly).
Horsepower:
Specific figures vary by model and H.O. designation; manual will contain exact specifications.
Torque:
Specific figures vary by model and H.O. designation; manual will contain exact specifications.
Induction:
Fuel Injection (FI) or Carbureted, depending on specific model variant (manual will detail specific system).
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled (Likely for both 300 and 400 models).
Oil Type:
Specific Polaris engine oil or equivalent API SG, SH, SJ, SL rated oil with JASO MA certification. Manual will specify viscosity (e.g., 0W-40, 10W-40, 20W-50) and capacity.
Spark Plug:
Specific spark plug type and gap will be detailed in the manual (e.g., NGK CR7HSA or similar).
Type:
Automatic PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission) with Engine Braking.
Drive Modes:
High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, Park (P).
Belt Replacement:
Procedure and recommended interval for drive belt inspection and replacement will be covered.
Fluid Type:
Specific transmission/final drive fluid type and capacity will be detailed in the manual (e.g., Polaris AGL Synthetic Gearcase Lubricant or equivalent).
Length:
Specific dimensions for 300 and 400 models will be listed in the manual.
Width:
Specific dimensions for 300 and 400 models will be listed in the manual.
Height:
Specific dimensions for 300 and 400 models will be listed in the manual.
Dry Weight:
Specific weight figures for 300 and 400 models will be listed in the manual. Typically around 600-650 lbs.
Payload Capacity:
Manual will detail rack capacities and overall payload. Typically around 200-250 lbs for front/rear racks.
Towing Capacity:
Manual will specify towing capacity, typically around 1500 lbs for these models.
Tire Size Front:
Typically 25x8-12 or similar for front tires. Manual will specify exact sizes and recommended pressures.
Tire Size Rear:
Typically 25x10-12 or similar for rear tires. Manual will specify exact sizes and recommended pressures.
Crash Test Results:
N/A for ATVs; safety is focused on operational procedures and design features covered in the manual.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear. Manual covers inspection, service, and replacement of brake pads, lines, and fluid.
Rollover Protection:
N/A (ATV design); emphasis on safe operating practices within manual.
Features:
Basic instrumentation cluster (speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, gear indicator). Advanced infotainment systems are not standard on this model.
Features:
No electronic driver assistance systems like traction control or ABS are typically found on these models. Focus is on mechanical systems.
Headlights:
Dual halogen headlights. Manual will detail bulb replacement and aiming procedures.
Taillight:
LED or incandescent taillight/brake light. Manual will detail bulb replacement.
Oil Change:
Typically every 100 hours or annually, whichever comes first. Manual will specify exact interval.
Air Filter:
Inspection and cleaning/replacement at regular intervals (e.g., every 50 hours or as needed based on conditions). Manual will detail.
Spark Plug Check:
Check and clean/gap at regular intervals (e.g., every 100 hours or annually). Manual will detail.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Refer to engine_specs for general types; specific viscosity (e.g., 0W-40, 10W-40) and API/JASO rating specified in manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (typical for Polaris). Manual will confirm specific type and capacity.
Coolant:
Antifreeze/coolant mixture (e.g., 50/50 ethylene glycol based). Manual will specify type and capacity.
Common Wear Items:
Drive belt wear, suspension bushings, wheel bearings, brake pads (all covered in detail for maintenance and replacement in the manual).
Electrical Connections:
Potential for corrosion or loose connections, especially in wet environments. Manual's electrical section and wiring diagrams are crucial.
Heritage:
Polaris Industries is a long-standing manufacturer of powersports vehicles, known for innovation and performance in ATVs and snowmobiles.
Sportsman Line:
The Sportsman line is Polaris's flagship ATV range, known for comfort, capability, and versatility across various terrains and uses.
Manufacturing Location:
Polaris vehicles are primarily manufactured in the United States (e.g., Spirit Lake, Iowa; Roseau, Minnesota).
Recognition:
Polaris Sportsman line generally receives positive reviews for utility and off-road performance from industry publications, though specific awards for the 2008 models are not directly detailed here.