My 96 SP500's steering is getting pretty loose. The tie-rod ends are marginal, but whatever type of bushing that supports the steering shaft is worn out. I have about 1/2" vertical play, I know this can't be right...plus, it's getting harder to steer. I have stock tires (albeit worn out, too) and the heavy-duty springs front and rear.

Has anyone ever been into the front of one of these? The manual doesn't explain it very well and would like some input from someone who's been there...I want to do this repair myself, but I don't want it to take forever.....it's bow season and we can't be down! Thanks for any help!

Todd Irvin
'96 Sportsman 500
"still kickin' after all these years"

 

Been qute awhyile since had to do what your askin.Had 96 that fell off traler had to replace steering.Them bushings you talked about are no big deal,it won't take all that much time.Jump in there like you know what your doing,and you will be done before you know it. COB

 

Thanks, COB, that's what I'm gonna do. Have you heard of any aftermarket bushings that might be better than stock...or do you think stock would be ok.

 

Todd, HPD, makes a bronze bushing that cost around if I remember right $36.00??. I have installed a number of them . The Polaris replacement bushing is only around $10 or $12 the biggest thing replacing the bushing is drilling out the old rivits. I used to pop rivit the replacements in but I later started using small bolts, just seemed a little more stout to me I had a rivit pop the head off once and didn,t want to risk it on someone elses machine.

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Kevin Gowdy aka Kagey 1999 Polaris Magnum 500

 

I had some serious play in the steering of my Sport 400 after flipping it. I replaced the steering post, upper, and lower bushings. I don't know if your bike has the same bushing setup, it probably does. I got one from Hot Seat Performance. It' billet aluminum, costs $34.00. The stock one is plastic, costs about $3.00. Go with the aluminum one, replace the top one while your at it, it was $12.00. The rivets are a bitch to get out. I used a Dremel Tool due to the tight quarters. My wrenching abilities are nominal on a good day, but it only took me about two hours, plus I learned a little about the bike. If your dealer doesn't have the parts, call H-S at 651-982-0600

SportKod

99Polaris Sport
00 Yamaha Kodiak