The Polaris Sportsman 400 was positioned as a capable and versatile mid-size utility ATV, known for its comfort and all-wheel-drive capabilities, making it suitable for recreational trail riding, light farm work, and hunting.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed directly with models from Yamaha (Grizzly 350/400), Honda (FourTrax 400/420), Suzuki (KingQuad 400), and Can-Am (Outlander 400).
Torque values for critical fasteners, engine bolts, suspension components, etc.
Technical Depth
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.
Diagnostics:
In-depth diagnostic procedures, including electrical system testing and troubleshooting.
Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchable Text:
Yes (typically, depending on the OCR quality of the source document)
Print Quality
Print Quality:
Designed for digital viewing and printing. Clarity of diagrams and text is crucial.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF download)
Completeness
Completeness:
Full workshop manual content, as opposed to owner's manual or condensed repair guides.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Manufacturer:
Polaris
Engine Model Designation:
Pro-Star 400
Engine Type:
4-stroke
Displacement:
376.5 cc
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 68.0 mm
Cylinder Arrangement:
Single Cylinder
Valve Configuration:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2-valve
Performance
Horsepower:
Approx. 27 hp @ 6500 RPM (estimated, actual may vary slightly)
Torque:
Approx. 23 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM (estimated)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor
Carburetor Model:
Keihin 36mm CV (Constant Velocity)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Minimum Recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
3.0 US gallons (11.4 L)
Ignition System
Ignition Type:
Electronic CDI
Spark Plug Type:
NGK CR9EK (or equivalent)
Cooling System
Cooling Method:
Liquid-Cooled
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol Based Antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water recommended)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
Polaris Automatic Variable Transmission (PVT) with Engine Braking
Drive System:
Shaft Drive
Drive Modes:
2WD / 4WD with Active Descent Control (ADC)
Features
Gear Selection:
High (H), Low (L), Neutral (N), Reverse (R), Park (P)
Clutch Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Primary and Secondary Sheaves
Transmission Fluid Type:
Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic 4-Stroke Engine Oil (or equivalent meeting API SG, JASO MA specifications)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific fill levels (typically ~1 quart/liter)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 76 inches (193 cm)
Width:
Approx. 46 inches (117 cm)
Height:
Approx. 47 inches (119 cm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 50.2 inches (127.5 cm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 10.5 inches (26.7 cm)
Cargo
Front Rack Capacity:
Approx. 50 lbs (23 kg)
Rear Rack Capacity:
Approx. 100 lbs (45 kg)
Weights
Dry Weight:
Approx. 562 lbs (255 kg)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 597 lbs (271 kg)
Wheels Tires
Front Tire Size:
AT 25 x 8-12
Rear Tire Size:
AT 25 x 10-12
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x110 mm
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Certification:
Meets ANSI standard B71.1 for ATVs (though specific numerical ratings like NHTSA aren't applicable to ATVs in the same way as cars).
Active Features
Braking System Type:
Hydraulic Disc Brakes (Front and Rear)
Drive Control:
On-Demand 4WD with Active Descent Control (ADC) for controlled downhill descents.
Passive Features
Lighting:
Dual Halogen Headlights, Taillight/Brake Light.
Operator Controls:
Handlebar-mounted controls for throttle, brakes, and 4WD engagement.
Seat Belt Provision:
N/A (ATVs typically do not use seat belts; rider posture and body control are primary safety elements).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
N/A (Basic utility ATV, no integrated infotainment systems).
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Active Descent Control (ADC) for enhanced downhill control.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No Bluetooth or smartphone integration).
Powertrain Technology
Transmission Technology:
Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT) with engine braking provides automatic shifting and engine braking on descents.
Drive System Technology:
On-Demand All-Wheel Drive automatically engages front wheels when rear wheels lose traction.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change:
Every 100 hours of operation or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 50 hours or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Inspect every 100 hours, replace as needed.
Transmission Belt Inspection:
Inspect every 50 hours, replace based on wear and condition (typically every 1-2 years or ~200 hours).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 200 hours.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic 4-Stroke Engine Oil SAE 0W-40 (API SG, JASO MA)
Engine Oil Capacity:
2.1 US quarts (2.0 liters) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Coolant Type:
50/50 mixture of Ethylene Glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Transmission belt, suspension bushings, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, ball joints, brake pads, and starter solenoids.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion in electrical connectors, especially in wet environments, can lead to intermittent electrical faults.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Proper maintenance of the cooling system is vital to prevent overheating, especially during hard use.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Origin:
Polaris Industries, founded in 1954, is an American manufacturer of powersports vehicles.
Model Evolution
Sportsman Lineage:
The Sportsman line has been a cornerstone of Polaris's ATV offerings, evolving from earlier models to incorporate features like independent suspension and AWD.
400 Model Significance:
The 400cc engine size provided a balance of power and efficiency, making it a popular choice for a wide range of users.
Production
Production Period:
2005-2006 model years.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in the United States by Polaris Industries.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Awards:
While specific awards for this exact model year may not be readily documented, the Polaris Sportsman line has consistently received praise for its utility, comfort, and off-road capability from ATV enthusiasts and publications.
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