The 2008 Sportsman Touring is a robust All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) designed for versatile use, combining comfort for longer rides with the rugged capability expected from the brand. Building on the well-regarded Sportsman platform, this model typically features a powerful ProStar engine, independent rear suspension for enhanced ride quality, and an on-demand all-wheel-drive system for superior traction. Its design prioritizes utility, offering ample cargo capacity and a comfortable seating position for two, making it suitable for both recreational trail riding and demanding work tasks. The manufacturer, with a strong heritage in powersports since 1954, engineered the Sportsman Touring to compete effectively in the premium ATV segment, known for its innovation and reliability.
This comprehensive factory service manual provides complete instructions for the maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of the 2008 Sportsman Touring ATV. Covering all major systems including the engine, transmission, drivetrain, braking, steering, suspension, and electrical components, it details routine and scheduled maintenance procedures, diagnostic strategies, and repair techniques. With over 500 pages of detailed information, including diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, and wiring schematics, this manual is an essential resource for owners, mechanics, and technicians. Its thorough content ensures that users can effectively maintain their vehicle, diagnose issues, and perform repairs to factory standards, maximizing performance and longevity.
Vehicle Type:
All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) / Quadricycle
Market Position:
The 2008 Polaris Sportsman Touring was positioned as a premium, multi-purpose ATV offering enhanced comfort and capability for longer rides and utility tasks, often featuring the ProStar engine line and advanced suspension for its era.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against models from Yamaha (Grizzly), Can-Am (Outlander), Honda (FourTrax Foreman/Rancher), and Arctic Cat (Prowler/ATV) in the large-displacement, feature-rich utility and recreational ATV segment.
Key Features:
Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) for improved ride quality, powerful engine options, locking front differential (on some models), on-demand AWD, comfortable seating for two, ample cargo capacity, and Polaris's Lock & Ride accessory system.
Coverage Areas:
Complete service and repair instructions for the 2008 Polaris Sportsman Touring ATV.
Page Count:
Estimated 500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals).
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, transmission, drivetrain, braking system, steering, suspension, electrical system, chassis, bodywork, troubleshooting, diagnostics, maintenance.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, inspection, lubrication, disassembly, assembly, repair, troubleshooting, diagnostics, electrical testing, component replacement, specifications and procedures for all major systems.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, wiring schematics, and diagnostic procedures.
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing. Text is typically searchable.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Type:
4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve, Single Cylinder (Polaris ProStar engine family common in this era)
Displacement:
Likely 700cc or 800cc for the 2008 Touring model. Specific displacement needs to be confirmed based on exact sub-model (e.g., Sportsman Touring 700 EFI, Sportsman Touring 800 EFI).
Horsepower:
Estimated 50-60 HP (depending on engine displacement)
Torque:
Estimated 45-55 lb-ft (depending on engine displacement)
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-Cooled
Oil Type:
Typically SAE 10W-50 Synthetic ATV Oil (check manual for exact specification)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.1 - 2.5 Quarts (check manual for exact capacity and filter)
Transmission Type:
Automatic (CVT - Continuously Variable Transmission) with High/Low range and Reverse
Drive System:
On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with 2WD/AWD selection, Locking Front Differential.
Cvt Fluid Type:
Typically Polaris Variable Transmission Fluid (PVT) or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
Cvt Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 1.2 Quarts (check manual for exact capacity)
Length:
Approx. 85.2 - 87.6 inches (depending on specific model configuration)
Width:
Approx. 47.6 inches
Height:
Approx. 47.1 - 48.3 inches
Dry Weight:
Approx. 700-740 lbs (depending on exact model and features)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 11.25 inches
Rack Capacity Front:
100 lbs
Rack Capacity Rear:
200 lbs
Towing Capacity:
1500 lbs
Front Tire Size:
25 x 8-12 or 26 x 8-12 (check manual)
Rear Tire Size:
25 x 10-12 or 26 x 10-12 (check manual)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x110 mm
Safety Ratings:
ATVs are not typically rated by organizations like NHTSA or IIHS. Safety relies on operator skill, adherence to manufacturer guidelines, and proper maintenance.
Active Safety Features:
Engine braking, on-demand AWD, locking front differential, hydraulic disc brakes on all wheels, throttle limiter (often adjustable/removable).
Passive Safety Features:
Handlebar guards, comfortable seating position, integrated lighting.
Infotainment Features:
Basic instrumentation cluster: speedometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, AWD indicator, high/low gear indicator. No complex infotainment systems typical of modern vehicles.
Driver Assistance Features:
None in the automotive sense. Key operational aids include engine braking, on-demand AWD engagement, and differential lock. Advanced suspension geometry contributes to stability.
Connectivity Features:
N/A
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 100 hours or 6 months (check manual for exact interval and specific conditions).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 25 hours or as needed based on conditions. Replacement interval varies.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 100-200 hours or 1 year (check manual for specific plug and gap).
Cvt Belt Inspection:
Every 50 hours, recommend replacement every 100-200 hours or if worn.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for precise specification)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water, check manual for specific Polaris coolant)
Gearcase Oil Type:
Polaris AGV Synthetic Gearcase Lubricant or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
Gearcase Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6-8 oz for front, approx. 10-12 oz for rear differentials (check manual)
Known Issues:
Common issues in this era's Polaris ATVs can include CVT belt wear, starter solenoid failure, fuel pump issues, and occasional electrical gremlins. Water pump seal leaks can also occur. The manual will provide diagnostic procedures for these and other potential problems.
Brand Heritage:
Polaris Industries Inc., founded in 1954, is a long-standing American manufacturer of powersports vehicles, including ATVs, snowmobiles, and motorcycles. Known for innovation and ruggedness in the off-road segment.
Model Evolution:
The Sportsman line is Polaris's flagship ATV series, evolving significantly over the years. The 'Touring' designation signifies models designed for longer-distance comfort and often a passenger, building upon the base Sportsman platform with extended chassis and upgraded seating.
Production Years Series:
The Polaris Sportsman line has been in continuous production since the early 1990s. The 'Touring' variants were introduced to cater to the dual-rider market.
Recognitions:
Specific awards for the 2008 model year may not be widely publicized. Polaris Sportsman models have consistently received positive reviews for performance, comfort, and utility in powersports media throughout their production runs.
