my2004 polaris sportsman overheats when operating in 4wd low gear-why?It doesn't appear to occur when operating in high gear.The guage shows ''hot'' and it steams.I took the thermostat out to see if that helps-but no effect.The only clue is a bit of antifreeze coming from the weep hole in the water pump.

 

Shoulnt be any coolant from weep hole! Sounds like waterpump seal bad and needs replacement!

 

thanks-does this sound like the waterpump should be replaced?I'm somewhat puzzled as to why the overheating only seems to occur when the quad is in low-not high gear

 

Also check for radiator blockage,especially if gets hot a low speeds,(not enough air circulating),BUT STILL should not be leaking at water pump cover weep hole! Keep us posted.

 

I would say, check the radiator for blockage. This being mud/dirt or even hay seeds that get in the cooling fins while riding through pastures. Is your fan operating correctly???

 

I took it into ther dealer a month ago for annual servicing and mentioned the overheating issue-they came back with a $300 bill for ''replacing fluids''and said the overheating was due to a ''loose bolt''.

 

I checked the radiator for debris and it seems clear-the fan comes on-so this puzzle continues-overheating when operating in low gear.