🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Polaris Model: Sportsman 500 Year: 2009 Vehicle Type: All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) / Quadricycle Product Name: Polaris 2009 Sportsman 500 Repair Manual [Improved] PDF Download 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Polaris Sportsman 500 line in 2009 was positioned as a versatile and capable ATV for recreational riding, utility work, and general trail use, known for its robust features and reliability. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Key competitors for the 2009 Polaris Sportsman 500 included models from Can-Am (Outlander series), Yamaha (Grizzly series), Honda (FourTrax Foreman/Rancher series), and Kawasaki (Brute Force series). Key Features Manual Benefits: This manual offers factory-level repair information in a user-friendly, digital format, enabling owners and technicians to perform detailed maintenance and repairs with confidence. Its improved PDF features enhance usability significantly. Ease Of Use Usability: Designed for ease of use, eliminating the need to 'dig through hundreds of pages.' Direct access to information via search, bookmarks, and index. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Models Covered: 2009 Sportsman 500 H.O., 2009 Sportsman 500 EFI, 2009 Sportsman X2 500 EFI, 2009 Sportsman Touring 500 EFI Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds Manual Type Type: Factory Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Systems: General Information, Specifications, Periodic Checks & Adjustments, Chassis, Engine, Cooling System, Fuel Injection System, Electrical System, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams Procedures Included Procedures: Disassembly, Assembly, Engine Overhaul, Service, Repair, Maintenance, Adjustments, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for mechanics and advanced DIY users, covering all aspects from basic checks to complete engine rebuilds. Torque Specs: Includes critical torque specifications for all major fasteners, essential for proper assembly and safety. Diagnostic Procedures: Step-by-step troubleshooting charts and logical diagnostic pathways for common and uncommon problems. Specific Procedures Engine Rebuild: Detailed steps for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, valves, bearings), and reassembly, including torque specifications and clearances. Transmission Service: Procedures for PVT belt inspection and replacement, sheave maintenance, and gearcase lubrication. Electrical Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guidance for starting system, charging system, ignition system, lighting, and accessories, supported by comprehensive wiring diagrams. Suspension And Steering: Service and adjustment procedures for front and rear suspension components (shocks, bushings, ball joints, tie rods), steering system, and optional EPS system. Fuel System Maintenance: Detailed information on the EFI system, including fuel pump operation, injector testing, throttle body cleaning, and sensor diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Print Quality Quality: Improved Quality (NOT A SCAN), high resolution, searchable text. Binding Type Binding Description: Digital (PDF download) - printable pages, can be burned to backup CD. Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) Navigation Features: Bookmarks, Sub-bookmarks, Searchable Text, Index Compatibility Operating Systems: Compatible with ALL Windows, ALL Mac, ALL Linux ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: 4-stroke, Single-Cylinder, SOHC, EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) Engine Displacement: 499cc (for most 500 models) Performance Horsepower Estimated: Approximately 30-35 HP (specific figures vary slightly by exact model and tune) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - essential for consistent performance in varying altitudes and temperatures. Cooling System Cooling Method: Liquid-cooled (Radiator) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Automatic (Polaris Variable Transmission - PVT) Drive Modes: 2WD/4WD, AWD (All Wheel Drive) on demand Features Gear Selection: High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, Park Lubrication Fluid Type: Polaris AGL Synthetic Gearcase Lubricant or equivalent. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Typical: Approx. 50.5 inches (128.3 cm) Ground Clearance Typical: Approx. 11.25 inches (28.6 cm) Weights Dry Weight Typical: Approx. 670-700 lbs (304-318 kg) Cargo Rack Capacity Front: 100 lbs (45.4 kg) Rack Capacity Rear: 200 lbs (90.7 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Safety Certification: ATVs are not designed for on-road use and do not have NHTSA or IIHS crash ratings like passenger vehicles. Active Features Braking System: Hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear). Passive Features Handling Stability: Independent Front Suspension (IFS) and IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) on many models contribute to stable handling. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment Features: Basic, typically no advanced infotainment systems on 2009 models. Focus is on functional instrumentation (speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, 4WD indicator). Driver Assistance Assistance Features: Some models may offer Electronic Power Steering (EPS) as an option, significantly reducing rider fatigue. AWD on-demand system is a key handling technology. Connectivity Connectivity Features: N/A for this model year and type of vehicle. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 100 hours or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact details. Spark Plug Replacement: Recommended at regular intervals or as part of top-end engine service. Manual specifies type and gap. Air Filter Cleaning: Frequent checks recommended, especially in dusty conditions. Cleaning or replacement intervals depend on operating environment. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic 5W-50 or equivalent. Engine Oil Capacity: Approximately 2.4 quarts (2.3 L) with filter change. Verify in manual. Coolant Type:...
Polaris 2009 Sportsman 500 Repair Manual [Improved] PDF Download
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Positioning:
The Polaris Sportsman 500 line in 2009 was positioned as a versatile and capable ATV for recreational riding, utility work, and general trail use, known for its robust features and reliability.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Key competitors for the 2009 Polaris Sportsman 500 included models from Can-Am (Outlander series), Yamaha (Grizzly series), Honda (FourTrax Foreman/Rancher series), and Kawasaki (Brute Force series).
Key Features
Manual Benefits:
This manual offers factory-level repair information in a user-friendly, digital format, enabling owners and technicians to perform detailed maintenance and repairs with confidence. Its improved PDF features enhance usability significantly.
Ease Of Use
Usability:
Designed for ease of use, eliminating the need to 'dig through hundreds of pages.' Direct access to information via search, bookmarks, and index.
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for mechanics and advanced DIY users, covering all aspects from basic checks to complete engine rebuilds.
Torque Specs:
Includes critical torque specifications for all major fasteners, essential for proper assembly and safety.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting charts and logical diagnostic pathways for common and uncommon problems.
Specific Procedures
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed steps for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, valves, bearings), and reassembly, including torque specifications and clearances.
Transmission Service:
Procedures for PVT belt inspection and replacement, sheave maintenance, and gearcase lubrication.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guidance for starting system, charging system, ignition system, lighting, and accessories, supported by comprehensive wiring diagrams.
Suspension And Steering:
Service and adjustment procedures for front and rear suspension components (shocks, bushings, ball joints, tie rods), steering system, and optional EPS system.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Detailed information on the EFI system, including fuel pump operation, injector testing, throttle body cleaning, and sensor diagnostics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Print Quality
Quality:
Improved Quality (NOT A SCAN), high resolution, searchable text.
Binding Type
Binding Description:
Digital (PDF download) - printable pages, can be burned to backup CD.
Approximately 30-35 HP (specific figures vary slightly by exact model and tune)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - essential for consistent performance in varying altitudes and temperatures.
Cooling System
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled (Radiator)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
Automatic (Polaris Variable Transmission - PVT)
Drive Modes:
2WD/4WD, AWD (All Wheel Drive) on demand
Features
Gear Selection:
High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, Park
Lubrication
Fluid Type:
Polaris AGL Synthetic Gearcase Lubricant or equivalent.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Typical:
Approx. 50.5 inches (128.3 cm)
Ground Clearance Typical:
Approx. 11.25 inches (28.6 cm)
Weights
Dry Weight Typical:
Approx. 670-700 lbs (304-318 kg)
Cargo
Rack Capacity Front:
100 lbs (45.4 kg)
Rack Capacity Rear:
200 lbs (90.7 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Certification:
ATVs are not designed for on-road use and do not have NHTSA or IIHS crash ratings like passenger vehicles.
Active Features
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear).
Passive Features
Handling Stability:
Independent Front Suspension (IFS) and IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) on many models contribute to stable handling.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Features:
Basic, typically no advanced infotainment systems on 2009 models. Focus is on functional instrumentation (speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, 4WD indicator).
Driver Assistance
Assistance Features:
Some models may offer Electronic Power Steering (EPS) as an option, significantly reducing rider fatigue. AWD on-demand system is a key handling technology.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
N/A for this model year and type of vehicle.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 100 hours or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact details.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended at regular intervals or as part of top-end engine service. Manual specifies type and gap.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Frequent checks recommended, especially in dusty conditions. Cleaning or replacement intervals depend on operating environment.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic 5W-50 or equivalent.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.4 quarts (2.3 L) with filter change. Verify in manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Polaris Premium 2-Stroke or 4-Stroke Coolant) with corrosion inhibitors.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Drive belts, ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, and brake pads are common wear items. EFI system maintenance (cleaning injectors) may be required over time.
Technical Tips
Importance Of Pvtlube:
Correct lubrication of the Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT) primary and secondary sheaves is crucial for smooth operation and longevity.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Polaris is a long-standing American manufacturer known for its pioneering work in snowmobiles and its expansion into ATVs, UTVs, and other powersports vehicles. The Sportsman line has been a cornerstone of their ATV offerings for many years.
Model Evolution
Evolution:
The Sportsman 500 has seen continuous updates since its introduction, with key advancements including the adoption of fuel injection (EFI), independent suspension systems, and power steering on some variants. The 2009 models represent a mature iteration of this successful platform.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in the USA by Polaris.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Recognition:
Polaris Sportsman models have consistently received positive reviews and accolades from powersports publications for their performance, comfort, and utility.
Ratings
User Reviews:
Widely regarded as a benchmark in the 4x4 ATV category for its segment during its production years.