Vehicle Type:
All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)
Product Name:
Polaris Sportsman 500 Service Repair Manual 2008 PDF Download
Product Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Digital Download
Product Codes Covered:
EFI, X2, TOURING, 500 H.O., Scandinavian, Quadricycle
Target Audience:
Owners of 2008 Polaris Sportsman 500 ATVs seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, or gain a deeper understanding of their vehicle.
Value Proposition:
Provides a cost-effective alternative to dealership service, empowering owners to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, saving significant expense.
Manual Content Emphasis:
Focus on practical, step-by-step instructions, diagnostics, and visual aids.
Digital Format Advantage:
Easy to store, access, and use on laptops in the workshop environment; printable pages offer flexibility.
Primary Coverage:
2008 Polaris Sportsman 500 models
Specific Models Covered:
Sportsman 500, Sportsman 500 EFI, Sportsman X2 500 EFI, Sportsman Touring 500 EFI, Sportsman 500 EFI Scandinavian, Sportsman Touring 500 EFI Quadricycle, Sportsman 500 HO
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (exact count not specified, but typical for factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service / Workshop Manual
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Portability:
Cross-platform compatible (Windows, MAC OS, Linux)
Readability Enhancements:
Printable pages for physical reference
Major Systems:
Engine, Fuel System, Body, Suspension, Clutch, Transmission, Final Drive, Brakes, Electrical System
Engine Specifics:
Engine operation, diagnostics, troubleshooting, overhaul, removal, and installation
Drivetrain:
Clutch, transmission, final drive (including axle and drive train components)
Chassis:
Body, suspension, frame components
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for ignition, charging, lighting, and accessories.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step repair instructions, component overhaul procedures, disassembly and reassembly of major parts.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving issues across all systems, troubleshooting guides.
Installation And Removal:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing major components and assemblies.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive factory-level technical data for both routine maintenance and complex repairs.
Visual Aids:
Abundant illustrations, photographs, and diagrams for part identification and assembly guidance.
Applicability To Skill Level:
Suitable for DIY enthusiasts with varying technical skills, from basic curiosity to advanced repair work.
File Compression:
May require extraction utility (e.g., 7-zip) if delivered in an archive.
Printability:
High quality, designed for clear printing of individual pages or sections.
Binding:
Digital (N/A - Printable format allows user binding)
Paper Type:
Digital (N/A - Printable format allows user choice)
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve
Displacement:
499cc (for most 500 models)
Bore X Stroke:
Specifications detailed within the manual (typical for 499cc engine)
Compression Ratio:
Specifications detailed within the manual (e.g., 10.2:1 for some variants)
Horsepower:
Approximately 33 HP (Varies slightly by model/tuning)
Torque:
Specifications detailed within the manual
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (EFI) or Carbureted (for HO models, though EFI is prevalent in listed variants)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Typically 3.25 US gallons (12.3 liters)
Engine Oil Type:
Polaris branded 4-stroke ATV engine oil or equivalent SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 synthetic oil (viscosity dependent on ambient temperature). Manual will specify exact recommendations.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.0 US quarts (1.9 liters) with filter change. Manual will provide precise figures.
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) controlled ignition
Transmission Type:
Automatic PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission) with Engine Braking
Gear Selection:
High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, Park
Drive System:
Shaft Drive, AWD (All-Wheel Drive) with ADC (Active Descent Control) on some models
Clutch Type:
Dual-clutch centrifugal system (Primary and Secondary)
Final Drive Fluid:
Polaris Demand Drive Fluid or equivalent SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Length:
Approx. 81.2 inches (206.25 cm) for standard models
Width:
Approx. 48 inches (121.9 cm)
Height:
Approx. 47 inches (119.4 cm) (to handlebars)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 660 lbs (299 kg) (Varies by model)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 11.25 inches (28.5 cm)
Rack Capacity Front:
150 lbs (68 kg)
Rack Capacity Rear:
300 lbs (136 kg)
Towing Capacity:
1500 lbs (680 kg)
Atv Safety Considerations:
Refer to Polaris operator's manual for critical safety information, warnings, and recommendations.
Active Descent Control:
Available on some models for controlled downhill descents.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear). Specifics on caliper type, rotor size within manual.
Lighting:
Dual headlights, tail light, brake light for visibility.
Tire Specification:
Front: 25x8-12, Rear: 25x10-12 (Common fitment, specific variations covered in manual)
Infotainment Features:
Basic instrumentation panel (speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, engine hour meter). Advanced infotainment systems are not typically found on this model.
Driver Assistance Features:
Active Descent Control (ADC) on applicable models.
Connectivity Features:
N/A - Primarily mechanical and electrical systems.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
EFI models feature on-board diagnostics with potential for error codes. Manual details how to access and interpret these codes.
Initial Service:
Break-in service typically around 10-20 hours or 100-200 miles. Manual will detail specific break-in procedures.
Regular Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, spark plug checks, belt inspections, tire pressure checks recommended at regular intervals (e.g., every 50-100 hours or annually). Specific intervals are detailed in the manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze coolant, suitable for Polaris ATVs. Manual will provide specific type and mixture ratio (e.g., 50/50).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify the exact requirement.
Grease Type:
Lithium-based multi-purpose grease for lubrication points.
Common Wear Items:
Drive belts (PVT system), wheel bearings, ball joints, tie rod ends, brake pads, and control cables are common wear items that may require periodic replacement.
Potential Troubleshooting Areas:
EFI system issues (sensors, injectors), charging system components (stator, voltage regulator), and starter system problems are common areas for troubleshooting, all covered in the manual.
Polarishistory:
Polaris Industries Inc. has a long history of innovation in powersports, particularly with ATVs since the late 1980s.
Sportsman Lineage:
The Sportsman line is Polaris's flagship ATV series, known for its comfort, versatility, and capable features. The 500cc engine has been a staple in this line for many years.
Production Region:
Polaris vehicles are typically manufactured in the USA.
Model Recognition:
The Polaris Sportsman line has historically received praise for its comfort, handling, and utility in the ATV market.
Consumer Ratings:
Generally well-regarded for its performance and durability by ATV enthusiasts and reviewers.
Atv Standards:
Manufactured to meet relevant industry safety and emissions standards.