2005 sportsman 500 HO does not start with key after going into some water today (might not be water related, but thought I would mention it). My quad only had 3300KMs on it and is in like new condition.

There is power to the pod in the run position and I can start it with the pull cord. The lights do not dim or anything like that when I try to start it with the key. Battery voltage is great. All connections on the handle bar seems to be good.

Any idea what this could be or what I should check? Pictures would be nice if you have any to show me what I should check.

Thanks in advance!

Bert.

 

Check connections at battery,solenoid and the starter cable also. May just need to move the starter cable around,same for the solenoid. With key on in start position does the solenoid at least click or does engine turn over? If not check that the small power wire from the solenoid has voltage when trying to crank. If not,the problem could be in the ignition switch. Wouldn't think the ecm could play a part in this since it at least has power to the dash,etc,BUT not a bad idea to pull all electrical connections under the front panel on the ecm,cdi etc and blow out any moisture with air and use electrical grease. May have to do the same for the stator/flywheel area.Remove the recoil housing and clean out any moisture and make sure the pick up coil face and flywheel are clean and dry. There was a recall on the ecm if you still possibly have the black Chinese ecm(some still out there that do) you can have it replaced free of charge. Polaris Industries Expands Recall of ATVs Due to Fire Hazard | CPSC.gov

 

It turns out that the big black wire to the starter was not grounded correctly. Thanks for your input Old Polaris Tech!

Cheers!

Bert.

 

Would you know if that recall affects Canadian quads?

 

Those Chinese modules could fail no matter where they ended up at,but I'd check with a local dealer to see if they were under the same recall as in the US.