I have a '99 Sportsman 500 and the lower steering stem bushing needs to be replaced. I also have an '01 Sportsman 500 and the lower steering stem has a bearing instead of a bushing. I would rather replace the bushing on the '99 with a bearing if possible. Does anybody know if the later bearing will fit the earlier bushing style steering stem? Comments would be greatly appreciated.

 

There is way too much work and money involved in changing to the '01 bearing. The HPD aluminum bushing is the way to go. ($30.00 retail)

 

It is my understanding that they won't interchange. I think it is because the stems are a slightly different diameter.
However, HPD makes an aftermarket one that is all metal for the older machines. Available from HPD, Ritter Cycle, Dennis Kirk, or most any other place that deals in Polaris parts. I have yet to hear of an HPD bushing wearing out, they are that much better than the stock plastic ones.
Farmr