My XP 850 missed the production date for ball joint replacement under the recall by 12 day's, the dealer called Polaris to try and get it fixed under the recall and they said sorry it's not covered. My question is: what is the procedure for checking the ball joints to see if they need replacement? Just got two new drive shafts installed to take care of the clicking noise and the dealer said the ball joints needed replacement. I have the extended warranty so they will be covered, one way or another. I would like to see for my self if they need replacement. Can't beleive Polaris won't fix this problem under the recall since the dealer said they are bad and were only talking 12 day's. Thanks for the help.

 

First off, it's not a recall, it's a "Safety Bulletin". Not sure what the difference is between the two but I digress. The bulletin doesn't replace the ball joints. They are replacing the bolts that hold the knuckles together. Then they check for play..if there is any they'll replace the knuckles but I suspect most of us will end up with 4 new shiny bolts and that's it. As for checking them, there may be some details regarding an ATV ball joints I'm unaware of but I would jack up the front end and see if there is any movement. Check by grabbing the tire at 12:00 and 6:00 and push/pull. Any movement indicated ball joint replacement (or at least in Polaris' eyes, a bolt replacement). Let's see what others come back with as this is what I do for automobiles although I don't think it'll be that different.
Cheers,
cc