This comprehensive Polaris ATV Sportsman 500 Workshop Repair Service Manual, covering models from 1996 to 1998, provides a wealth of information for service, maintenance, and troubleshooting. This manual, identical to that used by professional repair shops, ensures you have access to complete and accurate information for all models, engines, trims, and transmission types. It includes detailed instructions for a wide array of procedures, including: * General information about the ATV * Fuel system operation and repair * Cooling system maintenance and troubleshooting * Engine top-end components, their removal, and reassembly * Clutch system diagnosis and repair * Engine lubrication system analysis and service * Engine removal and installation procedures * Crankshaft and transmission repair * Wheels and tires, including maintenance and replacement * Final drive system analysis and repair * Brakes, including adjustments and component replacement * Suspension system diagnosis, repair, and adjustments * Steering system inspection, maintenance, and repair * Frame analysis and repair * Electrical system troubleshooting and repair * Appendix with additional information * Wiring diagrams The manual incorporates detailed step-by-step instructions, critical specifications, comprehensive illustrations, and clear photographs. It guides you through every repair procedure, from disassembly and cleaning to assembly and reinstallation. The manual also provides clear troubleshooting and electrical service procedures in conjunction with detailed wiring diagrams for easy navigation. This manual provides you with the same high-quality information used by professional technicians, enabling you to perform repairs and maintenance with confidence and save on costly professional service fees.

The Polaris Sportsman 500, produced between 1996 and 1998, stands as a significant milestone in the evolution of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). This model built upon the foundation laid by its predecessors, offering a robust and reliable machine designed for diverse outdoor activities. The Sportsman 500 was powered by a 499cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, known for its durability and impressive torque. This engine provided ample power for navigating challenging terrain, whether it be dense forests, muddy trails, or rocky hillsides. Its transmission consisted of a five-speed manual gearbox with a reverse gear, offering a balance of control and maneuverability. The Sportsman 500's suspension system employed independent double A-arms in the front and a swingarm with a single shock absorber in the rear, allowing riders to comfortably tackle bumpy trails and navigate uneven surfaces. Its generous ground clearance provided added confidence when encountering obstacles. The Polaris Sportsman 500 was a versatile machine appreciated for its rugged construction and dependable performance. Its high-quality components, including a strong steel frame and a spacious cargo rack, made it suitable for work and leisure. It became a popular choice for farmers, ranchers, hunters, and recreational riders, earning a reputation for durability and reliability. Its compact design and user-friendly features made it accessible to riders of various skill levels. However, as with any mechanical device, the Sportsman 500 required regular maintenance and servicing to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The 1996-1998 Polaris Sportsman 500 Repair Service Manual served as an invaluable resource for owners and mechanics alike, providing detailed instructions and technical specifications for all aspects of the ATV, from engine tune-ups to suspension adjustments. This comprehensive guide allowed users to diagnose and address potential issues, keeping their Sportsman 500 in top condition for years to come.