also noticed that the right front axle is loose ....like the axle nut backed off...probably why its not engaging, and if I unplug the wires to the coil for the (brown white gray white wires) will it nullify the awd 2wd button and just shift it manually?

 

Disconnecting power to the hub coils doesn't guarantee that a mechanical problem won't still lock a hub in. You need this manual to acquaint yourself with the awd system,what to check for and repairing.Videos can help,but the manual goes further including strut seal sleeves,sleeve and inner pole gap,etc.2000 Polaris Sportsman 335 Service Manual PDF Download

 

Thanks Old Polaris! you've been a great help!

 

I tightened the axle nut on the right side, both axles were low on fluid, filled them to specs, front axles are always engaged in 2wd. can you help?

 

Hubs being low on fluid can cause problems. If the front wheels are still engaged in 2 wheel drive,the most common cause for this was armature plates becoming magnetized. This causes the hilliard to lock into the hub full time. Item #4 on the parts break down. Cheap parts,about 10 bucks each,but need to be replaced along with checking for any bearing, hilliard damage or damage to the strut coil sleeve and inner pole where the armature plate rides. Several videos out there that can help,but again the manual shows you step by step.. Here's one on the Scrambler 500,but same system,same parts involved.