Was wondering if those that had put 700 front springs on your 400/500 were happy with it? I need to beef mine up - it's way too soft. I had a few concerns about doing this so I wanted to hear from the guys that have tried it.

Thanks

 

I should have added that I am referring to ride quality issues - I know how to put em on [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

CmdrBen,
The front end on my SP500 was too soft, bottomed easily, sagged even when the machine was unloaded, and generaly just felt like mush.

Heavier springs will work, but make sure you compare spring rates before you buy, don't just assume that SP700 springs are what you need. I tried heavier SP500 springs and was very disappointed. They were a bit shorter than stock so the front end was even lower. The springs were stiffer, but the ride was harsh and didn't use all the available suspension travel.

Or, try my $2 solution: Place a 1" thick preload spacer under each front spring. This raises the sagging front end about 1.25", eliminates bottoming without making the ride harsh, and makes the steering/handling feel much sharper.

Hockey pucks work great, but any similar material will work. I did a neighbour's SP500 and he's very happy with the results (and the price). A few here in the forum tried it and replied that it works very well for them. Let me know if you want details on how to do it.

 

Hockey puck? How big a hole would you need in the center for that to work ok? I would think that a puck would rot and chip pretty soon, they dont stay in great shape when left outdoors.

How big an Inside Diameter for a spacer? I have seen that NBsportsman (i think) did that, maybe he'll show up. I agree that the front of the 400 is WAY too soft, in my woods i literally bottom on EVERY dip, which wouldnt be so bad if it wasnt for how quickly you bounce back up, you lose steering for a moment.

 

I've done the EXACT spring swap you're talking about to a 04.5 SP500HO. I used standard SP700 springs (70-120lb progressive) and I'm VERY satisfied with the results. I did the swap primarily for the added height (about a 3/4" increase) for the installation of a 26" ITP tire/wheel package. I'm a fairly aggressive rider, and tip the scales at about 175lbs. I drive the 500HO like a 4x4. Not a "flying" sport quad. Mostly technical stuff and mud.

The modified 500HO's ride is firmer without being harsh at all. The suspension still articulates very well and the new springs seem to have eliminated the constant bottoming out of the original springs. All things considered, this is a highly recommended mod for the 500HO. For a heavier rider I might suggest looking at stiffer set. Such as those found in a Ranger. I have some spring rate info and I'll post it if I can dig it up...

I have before and after pictures in my gallery. You may find that of some interest....

Hope this helps...

 

<u>Polaris Atv spring rate info</u>

Stock sportsman 500/ATP springs 7041375-067 / 7041375-035 (64-113 LB/in progressive)

Sportsman 500/ATP HD replacement springs 7041450-067 (101 LB/in non progressive)

Scrambler 500 HD replacement springs 7041647-067 (80-120 LB/in progressive)

Sportsman 700 stock springs 7042054-067 (70-120 LB/in progressive)

2002 ranger front springs 7041696-195 (140-190 LB/in progressive)

2003 ranger front springs 7041985-067 (120-150 LB/in progressive)

Sportman 500 rear HD replacement springs (140 LB/in non progressive)

** Please Note..... Spring color is the last 3 digits on part number: 067=black, 385=silver, 293=red, 195=???

 

Thanks for the info guys ...