Does anyone know why I can't find a jet kit for a 97 sportsman 500? Also, is a K&N filter worth using?
Thanks

 

Leave the K&N filter OFF!! I've had too many engines damaged by the K&N ! Its not just the filter,but lack of maintenance/staying on top of the filter cleaning,plus allowing too much fine dirt particles to enter engine is the problem. Other than stock,the only other filter I can recommend is the UNI,but you have to keep it maintained also,but will trap more damaging dirt than the K&N! Others will disagree,but I do this for a living and see more than the average rider. As far as jetting,depends on what you are wanting to do? Adding a pipe,less restrictive filter,will probably require a jump in the main jet,plus raising the slide needle can help also. But the rule of thumb is about 15-20 percent increase on the main jet if pipe and filter is changed. Plus running the engine and checking plug condition determines which way to go.Little too tan,go richer on the main,dark,a little leaner. YES jet kits are available (Dynajet and others),but you are mainly paying for the titanium needle. They use their own size system on the jets,which don't correspond to stock Mikuni or Keihin carbs. OPT

 

Thanks for the info. I was wondering about K&N if it would actually filter out small particles. Any suggestions on jetting if running stock filter and exhaust. I've read alot of posts that claim that the stock jetting is tuned for California pollution regs not for performance. Whats your take on this?
Thanks

 

Plug chopping,that is getting machine warm and killing at top speed to check plug condition is still one of the best ways to check jetting. If plug is a very light tan or white,then jetting up is recommended. If plug base is medium tan with the electrode slightly darker then this is what you are shooting for. Plus you can usually tell if jetting is needed,popping back from exhaust,hesitation,and such are usually signs of running lean. Jetting depends on your altitude,engine mods and such.Stock jetting is pretty close on from the factory if running stock. If in doubt just do a plug chop. OPT

 

I'll have to try that. I took the plug i've been running for about 400 miles and it seems ok if i'm reading alright. The porcelin is light tan alsmost white and the ground strap is light almost sooty gray. The seat has a full light black soot. How often should you change the plug wire?

Thanks