Market Position:
The Polaris Sportsman 300 and 400 H.O. ATVs from 2009 represent entry-to-mid-level offerings in the versatile Sportsman lineup, known for their utility and trail-riding capabilities. This manual serves the owners and technicians supporting these popular models.
Competitive Landscape:
Competed against models from Yamaha (Grizzly, Kodiak), Can-Am (Outlander), Arctic Cat (ATV), and Honda (Rancher, Foreman) in the recreational and utility ATV segment.
Key Features:
The 2009 Sportsman models are recognized for their independent rear suspension (IRS), on-demand all-wheel drive (AWD) on some variants, Polaris' signature comfortable seating, and reliable utility features for work and recreation. The H.O. designation typically indicates an enhanced engine output.
Systems:
Engine (including tear down, rebuild, PGM-FI, carburetion, ignition, fuel system, lubrication, cooling), Transmission (drive train, clutches, gears), Chassis (frame, suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires), Electrical System (battery, charging system, lighting, switches, wiring harness, magneto, stator, rectifier), Bodywork (fenders, plastics, seat, storage), Fuel System (fuel pump, fuel injection, carburettor, jets), Exhaust System, Starting System (starter motor, kickstart), Drivetrain (axles, driveshaft, swingarm, rear drive, primary reduction gear).
Procedures:
Complete tear down and rebuild, routine maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, component inspection, repair, adjustments (valve clearance, mixture screw, throttle cable), installation, overhaul, fluid changes, brake bleeding, suspension tuning, tire maintenance, electrical diagnostics, error code interpretation.
Troubleshooting Guide:
Dedicated sections for diagnosing and resolving common and complex operational problems and error codes.
Technical Depth:
In-depth, factory-level technical information covering all aspects of repair and maintenance, including detailed diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, and diagnostic procedures for both minor adjustments and major component overhauls.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Extensive use of pictures, part diagrams, and exploded views to clearly illustrate components and procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and components (e.g., cylinder head bolts, wheel lug nuts, suspension bolts).
Engine Type:
Single-cylinder, 4-stroke
Displacement 300:
Approx. 271cc (exact figures may vary based on internal Polaris specifications)
Displacement 400 Ho:
Approx. 375cc (exact figures may vary based on internal Polaris specifications)
Horsepower 400 Ho:
Estimated 25-30 HP (typical for this class, specific figures detailed in manual)
Torque 400 Ho:
Estimated 25-30 lb-ft (typical for this class, specific figures detailed in manual)
Engine Configuration:
Single-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam)
Fuel System Type:
Fuel Injection (EFI) for 400 H.O., Carbureted for 300 (specific carburetors and EFI components detailed in manual)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Carburetor Details 300:
Specific carburetor model, jet sizes (main jet, pilot jet, slow jet), and mixture screw adjustment procedures detailed.
Efi Details 400 Ho:
Information on sensors, fuel pump, injectors, and ECU diagnostics for the electronic fuel injection system.
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (CDI/Digital)
Transmission Type:
Automatic (CVT - Continuously Variable Transmission)
Transmission Gears:
High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, Park
Drive System:
On-Demand AWD (Active Descent Control on some variants) and 2WD
Clutch Type:
Primary and Secondary Clutch system (CVT)
Length:
Approx. 83 in. (210.8 cm) (refer to manual for precise dimensions by model variant)
Width:
Approx. 46 in. (116.8 cm) (refer to manual for precise dimensions by model variant)
Height:
Approx. 47.5 in. (120.7 cm) (refer to manual for precise dimensions by model variant)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 50.5 in. (128.3 cm) (refer to manual for precise dimensions)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 650-700 lbs (295-318 kg) (refer to manual for precise weights by model variant)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 11.25 in. (28.6 cm)
Towing Capacity:
1,500 lbs (680 kg)
Rack Capacity Front:
100 lbs (45.4 kg)
Rack Capacity Rear:
200 lbs (90.7 kg)
Atv Safety Standards:
Conforms to ANSI/SVIA standard 1-2010 and 1-2014.
Active Safety Features:
On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, powerful braking system (hydraulic disc front and rear), stable chassis design.
Passive Safety Features:
Handlebar guards, comfortable seating position, integrated lighting (headlights, taillight).
Infotainment System:
Basic; typically lacks integrated infotainment systems. Focus is on operational controls and indicators.
Driver Assistance Features:
On-Demand AWD system is a primary active feature. Other advanced electronic aids are typically not present on these models.
Connectivity Features:
No electronic connectivity features beyond basic ignition and lighting controls.
Initial Service:
First service typically at 10-20 hours or 1 month (refer to manual for exact break-in procedures).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 100 hours or annually (refer to manual for specific oil type and capacity).
Spark Plug Maintenance:
Inspect and clean/replace every 200 hours or as needed (refer to manual for correct spark plug type and gap).
Air Filter Maintenance:
Inspect and clean/replace every 50 hours or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual for specific interval for CVT fluid/drive system fluids.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-50 (refer to manual for specific Polaris recommendations and API service classification)
Coolant Type:
Antifreeze/Coolant meeting specified requirements (typically ethylene glycol-based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific Polaris requirement)
Gearcase Oil Viscosity:
Refer to manual for specific gearcase lubricant specifications and capacity (e.g., Polaris Demand Drive Fluid).
Common Wear Items:
CV boots, brake pads, tires, drive belts (CVT).
Potential Troubleshooting Areas:
Starting issues (fuel, spark, air), overheating (cooling system), transmission performance (CVT belt wear/slipping), electrical gremlins (loose connections, faulty switches).
Brand Heritage:
Polaris Industries Inc. has a long history of innovation in the powersports industry, establishing the Sportsman line as a benchmark for utility and recreational ATVs.
Model Evolution Summary:
The Sportsman line has consistently evolved, with the 300 and 400 models representing significant updates in engine technology, suspension, and rider comfort. The 2009 models benefited from previous generations' refinements.
Production Period:
The 300 and 400 models have been produced in various iterations over several years, with the 2009 model being a specific point in their development. Production typically occurs at Polaris facilities in the USA.
