anyone have decent advice or instructions on adjusting the transmisison on a 97 sportsman 500? When putting my machine in either forward gear, you're able to ride normally for about a minute - then the reverse light comes on and the spitting and sputtering starts (like you're actually in reverse) - pressing the override button allows the machine to take off like a bullet again. I've noticed that while stopped, and according to the shifter the bike is in neutral, the reverse light is still lit, but if you push the shifter forward just a bit, the transmission sounds like it's engaging, and for a brief moment the neutral light comes on. I've checked the rev limiter and for broken wires, and everything seems o.k., but the shifter does seem like it's gotten "shorter". I'm wondering if the transmission isn't fully engaging and/or some type of switch is faulty. Any advice is more than greatly appreciated!

 

I would bet money your gear selector switch is no good. They made them out of plastic for a while and they would do exactly what your talking about. Check it out.

 

Yep gear selector switch, only one on the transmission with wires. Not sure if that year has one or two......

 

that sounds like good information. Would either of you know how bad that is ito replace? where would I start?

 

That switch is in the gear selector itself, not on the trans. Remove the gear linkages, remove the gear selector box and wiring, tear it apart and replace the switch. It's not too bad to do. It needs lined up in a hole when you go back together so you do need to be carefull. Also there are two pretty good springs to contend with. It has oil in it and is sealed with sealer. Just pay attention to how it comes apart and it should be ok.
Your part number is 3233209

 

I would like to thank everyone for the great outpouring of help! I pulled everything apart and replaced the switch, and the machine runs like a top. I'd be lost without the great help of this site! Thanks once again!