I've been searching the forum for the last couple hours and it seems I have some sort of transmission problem but no one has ever said what it actually is. My buddy's 700 sportsman is stuck in high and won't go into any other gear. I've moved the shift linkage to as many different settings as there are available splines on the linkage/trans tab. I unhooked the linkage and tried to turn the shaft with a pair of pliers and the rod that comes out for the sensor that tells it what gear it's in. What could cause it to get stuck in high gear and it won't come out no matter anything I could think of to try??

 

You don't say which year model,but they really all use the same type transmission. These had problem at times in the outer small shift gear section plus the wide shift forks and "wave" springs between that caused problems also.This section ties into the main shift drum. I'd check the outer gear section first for any broken teeth on gearing or other problems. A manual is highly suggested as these gears have index marks and must go a certain way.Mainly Items #2 through #9. Plus #64,65 and 66. Plus the park lockout detent can cause problems if the spring comes off the plunger.#60 Dirt Cheap Yamaha, Honda, Arctic Cat & Polaris OEM Parts & Accessories – Cycle Parts Warehouse

 

I'm sorry, it's a 2003 700 twin. He's had a brobkem with it since he bought it with the shifting but now this so it's probably been very worn and now it's worn out. I'll get it out and crack it open tonight, is there anything specific to look for on anything inside besides the obvious broken parts/teeth?

 

Look at this pdf link on the 2003 model(basically the same on all 700s) should help you. Index of /ORV Manuals/Polaris/Sportsman/2003

 

Well we pulled the shift side cover/cap/plate(whatever it is) off and the #9(#8 for the 2003) gear was missing 5 of the teeth in the center. Thanks again OPT! You always come through with what we need and some great "links" as well