i bought a 2003 polaris sportsman 500 H.O. with a 12" lift and 29.5" outlaws. thats besides the point. the thing will not crank. it ran fine when i bought it, i get it home, go to crank it and show it to the girlfriend and the solenoid clicks. im guessing the starter went bad considering when you try to turn the engine over by crossing the two posts on the solenoid that nothing happens sparks just fly?? please help

 

Don't overlook a battery just because it may spark. If in doubt have it load tested for a dead cell. Plus if it's transferring power from the battery side solenoid wire to the starter wire side,you can eliminate the solenoid as a problem.All it takes is a test light or meter. You can tap the starter and see if it turns over,but even if it does it probably wouldn't last if the starter is the problem.You can clean it up and/or a new brush kit,but here's a cheap place to get them that makes it not worth messing with the old one.DB Electrical - Polaris