I bought a run-running Sportsman 500 that has sat for 2 years that I am trying to clean up and get it running again. What is acceptable compression? I checked it last night after fixing the starter motor and its getting 90psi

It fired on starting fluid so I am going to clean the carb and change all the fluids but is this compression ok? It has 880 hours and 3200 miles on it.

 

Compression on the 500 should show between 55-90 psi on average because of the decompression device on the cam. Some may show a little higher. Here's the best carb kit around. Don't just clean one that's been sitting for 2 years.Polaris Sportsman 500 1999 2000 Shindy Carb Rebuild Kit | eBay Not a bad idea to also check valve clearance(.006 intake and exhaust) and check the cam exhaust lobe for excessive wear as this was in the model year range for cam problems.

 

The 500 has a auto decompression , my 500H.O is way easier to pull start then my 350 Yamaha and 250 moto4.

 

Now it won't start!!!

I bought the Shindy carb kit, cleaned it, blew it out out and rebuilt the carb exactly as it was before I tore it down, I replaced the broken fuel shutoff valve where the reserve tab was busted off and plugged, installed new rubber goodyear fuel lines, a new NKG BKR5E plug and Now it won't fire at all. Seems to be getting fuel

I haven't had a chance to troubleshoot this much yet as I ran out of time. I plan to check to ensure it's producing a spark. Assuming it does what can I look at next? I did unscrew the drain on the bottom of the carb and it was full of fuel so the carb seems to be getting fuel.

 

Since you bought it in non running condition check the basics.Pull the fuel line from the carb and crank the engine over to verify you have good fuel flow from the pump.Should be a steady stream of fuel. Ground the plug to the engine and crank the engine over to see if you have spark. If you have spark and fuel then remove the valve cover,check valve clearance along(.006 intake and exhaust) and also for any excessive wear on the cam exhaust lobe.