Guys, I have a 2003 sportsman 500 Ho and right now it is pretty much apart getting some things taken care of before a trip this summer to Hatfield/McCoy trails. My question is: How hard is it to replace the existing struts? Currently they are pretty rusted and I figure it is alot easier to take care of it now with all of the front plastic off the machine. Any thoughts?

John

 

If you're taking abut the strut cartridge it's not that hard. Just remove the top strut nut,use large vice grips to clamp the shaft at the top(check for worn upper and lower plastic pivot *****),remove the tie rod end from the strut and lower the strut assembly down,remove the spring retainer nut and retainer,remove spring,remove the two bolts in the strut housing and slide out the strut cartridge(may have to pry the housing open a little) Then insert new cartridge,replace the two strut housing bolts and nuts and remount at the top. PS just lower the strut assembly down enough to get the cartridge out,leave the swing arm attached!! (wood block or something to support it on the ball joint area so the cv joint doesn't pull out of the shaft.) OPT

 

YOU are the Man! Thanks for your input and professionalism!

John