I'm looking on ebay for one. Do I have to get an exact model for the 2001 500 or can I get a different one?

 

I would NOT suggest getting one off of ebay. Mainly if it is used. Go to your local polaris dealer and get a new one. You would be alot better off.

You might get one one that is worse than the one you have. The problem is, when your battery is over charge, you take a chance on warping the plates inside your battery. After so long, your battery will start to leak from the pressure. and if you keep going with it that way, its possible for your battery to explode on you.

I have seen one battery explosion. You don't want to be on it when it does.

 

Sounds good. I'll stop at a dealer and get one. It is definitely bad if it is at 17 volts right?

 

It's on the the egde of going. Normally your output voltage is no higher than 14.4 volts. Over that, you are building up heat. Heat on a battery is bad. You are 2.6 over voltage. Yes is it time to replace before any real damage is done. You might have to replace battery. Depends if you are having trouble starting or if it's not holding a charge anymore.. Make sure your battery is fully charge before you ride or you will be buying another regulator later down the line.

 

Sounds good. I will get that replaced asap. And yes, I have been having problems starting. It seems like the battery goes dead, but when I throw the charger on it, it acts like it is charged all the way. I'm almost thinking about replacing both items right away.

 

after you replace both. you should be good to go

 

Awesome, thanks for the help! I appreciate it! Any suggestions for a battery? I was thinking about just going to see if they have something at Fleet Farm or Wal-Mart and compare it to what they have at the dealer.

 

Just match up the size. The polaris brand is twice as much for the same thing. Just becarful with the acid when you add it to the battery.

 

Does it not come with acid in it? I doubt I'll get the polaris brand. A lot of my friends have had good luck with the everstart one.

 

most of the time, no. You have to add it in there yourself. I advise to wear rubber gloves when you do. If you get any on you. Wash it off quickly.