My '99 sportsman 500 seems to be hitting bottom on the front end when i ride bumpy terrain (never used to) and I am wondering how to do a replacemnt , or do I get them recharged?? And what is it going to cost me about?

 

They are sealed and must be replace if worn out. Notice oil around the shaft or body from leaking or when you push down on front end does it bounce back quickly? If so sounds like you need a new set of strut cartridges. Options other than oem are available if you prefer. OPT

 

You need to consider the condition of your springs as well. I would replace both if you're going to get into the front suspension. Can't logically take it apart and invest all that time and money, and not swap out the springs......Especially if it's hitting bottom regularly.

 

I would lean more towards the springs. Try to lift the front and back end to see if there is some sag. My '03 600 is starting to do the same thing but it has the Polaris sag from crappy springs.

 

Sounds more like springs-pretty common. I have a set off an 09 800(front and rear) with low miles if you need some(pm me). Definitely check for oil leaking on the shock as said above if it's been bouncing a lot.