I have mine at the hardest setting as I ride with the wife and if I dont run it like that my mud gear tires rub like mad. I to used the jack and channel locks to change mine. I do find it stiff when Im by myself but Im getting use to it.

 

if they are the same springs the height shouldnt change as your just putting more preload on the spring. yes taking the weight off the bike and using a spanner wrench is the best way to do it for sure, but as mentioned a big pair of channel lock pliers works good too if you dont mind roughed up shock nuts. imo

 

Well, I sprayed down the preloads and let them sit for several hours. Took my rim off to gain more access to the preload adjuster, put the pliers on and waaa la, a chuck of the preload adjuster fell apart and to the ground. The spring didn't move at all. SO, I needed a quick fix because we are riding tomorrow. I cleaned up the two pieces, broke out the trusty JB Weld and iced the back of the piece that broke off on there with JB Weld and a clamp to keep it tight overnight. Hopefully it works so I can ride tomorrow. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

My ride is a 2001 Sportsman. Do you guys know what year shocks will interchange from other Sportsman years? I found a couple from 99 that appear to be the same. Figured I'd ask in hopes someone on here knows!!! PLEASE HELP because I want to order them asap!!!

 

Yes they will fit. So will many more from other models and years. SP 335,400,450,600,700 and 800.

Also it looks like the adjuster is a separate part #30 in pic $8.17.in this link OEM motorcycle and ATV parts from Honda, Yamaha & Polaris – Cycle Parts Warehouse If your atv was built before 3/01/01 it has a Part# shock 7041959 built after that date its a 7041770 shock.(but both shocks fit your atv)






They had 9.5" travel from 1996 to 2010.

Go to this site http://parts.polarisind.com/Assemblies.asp click "Rear Suspension" then find #31 and click on the link "USAGE" right of left column and it shows what other models and years share that part.

 

Thanks so much for the info!!!

 

I ended up buying the cam (preload) adjusters today since a local shop had them in stock. Used ratchet straps to compress the spring and I'm good to go now. Took about an hour to do.

FYI-the jb weld I used as a temp fix to ride today on the old preload adjuster, lasted about 1/2 hour on the trail before it let go...

Thanks to all for the help. Time to ride!!!