whats the best way to install skid plates on a 2004 600 sportsman? lift the vehicle and get under it? tip it on its rear tires to access? or let the dealer do it because its to difficult?

A arms look easy.

 

Isn't the bottom of the frame already one big skidplate?

 

Are Skid plates necessary on a Sportsman?
That was one of the things I liked about a Sportsman, it looked like one big skid plate under there already.
Granted it has some holes for drains and breathing, etc and basically feels like a tank.

One of the posts in here talked about Polaris shedding some weight but from what I see the frame is where it would come from and then we would definitely need to add skid plates. So wouldn't that be a wash?

Anyway, thought I would bring this up as I was kind of curious and hadn't found any made for the Sportsman yet.

 

I figured they must be necessary as Polaris still sales them as an accessory on their web site.

 

I have the full Pro-Armour on my 03 700. I recall having to stand it up to do it. I remember gas leaking all down on my seat to.

 

i don't think they're needed either but it u really think so I sure wouldn't pay 75 or 80 an hour for the dealer to do it IMO

 

I did all of mine in a few hours. Front and rear bash plates, bottom skid plate, and all 4 A-arms. I think I paid $500 for the whole kit.

 

so adding skid plates or not?

I guess it remains a personal choice. Kind depends on how hard you are going to ride.
If it's like you stole it then, yea add the weight and not worry,
If it's like you own it then your choice and comfort level.

 

I plan to ride it at Tellico but not hard or fast (lots of rocks) and figured the small price for protection would offset paying for damage repair.

 

I ride where there are tons of rocks. (Not much else in New England) My stock metal skid plates have held up very well. The only place that I saw a bend was the two oval tie down tabs in the front. The one thing you may really want to beef up is the radiator guard. It's kind of flimsy compared to the rest of the quad.