I have a 2008 sportsman 500 started it up the other day. I let it warm up, took it across the yard and it started ticking. Sounds like it is a valve problem but unsure can someone help me PLEASE

 

I`m unsure but if the 05`s are the same as my 99 500 you should adjust the valves i think they say every 100 hours and if it is the same Make sure you change the oil when they say to change it, if you don`t then you`ll have to replace the cam and rockers Like i did because of the old owner neglected to do anything except "Jimmy rig everything"
Pull the valve cover off and with a feeler gauge adjust your rockers maybe 1 has worked its way loose, its an easy fix if thats your problem.

 

Just get a new cylender head cheap ez fix.

 

Theres no need to replace the head if just the valves are out of adjustment. I can`t say for sure because i can`t hear the motor. Take the side panels off remove the valve cover with key OFF use recoil starter to find TDC and check valve lash. If you dropped 1 now thats a hole other story. lets not go there at this point.
To Add to snowracers post is not so cheep to replace the head keep in mind if you replace the head you will be buying someone else's old Cam, Rocker assembly and head, and you will need a new gasket. its possible to change while the motor in in the quad but its a PTA.

 

I wouldn't jump to quick on this. My 07 800 X2 has been ticking from day one. When I had it at the dealer the service manager said normal. I have not worried about it since. Runs great....

 

The Valve systems are totally different between the Sportsman 800 and 500.

 

Ok thanks Brasco Like I said on my first post I wasn`t sure it they were the same. now I`m updated

 

It is a possibility that the valves are a little loose but typically they get tighter as time goes on. If you don't hear them tapping they're probably getting tight. You want just a tiny bit of slack there. .006 clearance. Check this. Polaris ATV Valve Adjustment Tips : Polaris ATV Maintenance & Repair Tips | eHow.com

 

Sorry about that. Now I'm updated too. Thanks.

 

The 6-7-800s have hydraulic lifters and push rods and are not adjustable, Ive had some act like a stuck lifter , tick and even miss, added 3oz of seafoam to the engine oil, rode it for like 20 minutes, freed the lifter and never heard it tick again, the 500 engine is over head cam with rocker arm adjustment, usually get too tight but might have one too loose and ticking, as stated should be set at.006 with feeler gauge