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POLARIS M1400 Owner's Manual for Maintenance and Safety...
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The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For videos and more information about a safe riding experience with your Polaris vehicle, scan this QR code with your smartphone.
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WELCOME Thank you for purchasing a POLARIS vehicle, and welcome to our world-wide family of POLARIS enthusiasts. Be sure to visit us online at www.polaris.com for the latest news, new product introductions, upcoming events, career opportunities and more. Here at POLARIS we proudly produce an exciting line of utility and recreational products.
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POLARIS® is a trademark of POLARIS Industries Inc. Copyright 2015 POLARIS Industries Inc. All information contained within this publication is based on the latest product information at the time of publication. Due to constant improvements in the design and quality of production components, some minor discrepancies may result between the actual vehicle and the information presented in this publication.
INTRODUCTION The POLARIS M1400 is a utility vehicle. Never operate on public roads. This vehicle does not meet National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regulations for opera- tion on public streets, roads and highways. Familiarize yourself with all laws and regulations concerning the operation of this vehicle in your area.
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Failure to follow the warnings contained in this manual can result in severe injury or death. Your POLARIS M1400 is not a toy and can be hazardous to operate. This vehicle handles differently than other vehicles, such as cars, trucks or other off-road vehicles. A collision or rollover can occur quickly, even during routine maneuvers like turning, or driving on hills or over obstacles, if you fail to take proper precautions.
INTRODUCTION Vehicle Identification Numbers Record your vehicle's identification numbers and key number in the spaces provided below. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) indicates the model year, model type and serial number of your vehicle. The VIN is stamped on the left rear frame. The VIN is also on the manufacturer’s label, which is located under the passenger seat.
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INTRODUCTION European Vibration and Noise The driver-perceived noise and hand/arm and whole body vibration levels of this machinery is measured per prEN 15997. The operating conditions of the machinery during testing: The vehicles were in like-new condition. The environment was controlled as indicated by the test procedure(s).
SAFETY Safety Labels and Locations Warning labels have been placed on the vehicle for your protection. Read and follow the instructions of the labels on the vehicle carefully. If any of the labels depicted in this manual differ from the labels on your vehicle, always read and follow the instructions of the labels on the vehicle.
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• With more than one passenger, or a passenger under age twelve or who cannot comfortably reach the floor and hand holds. • With non-POLARIS approved accessories - they may seriously affect stability. ALWAYS: • Wear your seat belt, if equipped. Vehicle rollover could cause severe injury or death.
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A hard hat or helmet and approved eye protection are recommended when appropriate for working or riding conditions. POLARIS recommends wearing approved eye protection bearing markings such as VESC 8, V-8, Z87.1 or CE. Never operate or ride in this vehicle while barefoot or while wearing sandals or tennis shoes.
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SAFETY Operator Safety WARNING Serious injury or death can result if you do not follow these instructions and procedures, which are outlined in further detail within your owner's manual. • Read this entire manual and all labels carefully. Follow the operating procedures described.
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• Always use the proper size and type of tires specified in this manual. Always maintain proper tire pressure as specified on safety labels. • Never modify this vehicle through improper installation or use of non-POLARIS approved accessories. • Never exceed the stated load capacity for this vehicle. Cargo should be properly distributed and securely attached.
• weight of any additional cargo on the vehicle Equipment Modifications Do not install any non-POLARIS approved accessory or modify the vehicle for the purpose of increasing speed or power. Any modifications or installation of non-POLARIS approved accessories could create a substantial safety hazard and increase the risk of bodily injury.
A hard hat or helmet and approved eye protection are recommended when appropriate for working or riding conditions. POLARIS recommends wearing approved eye protection bearing markings such as VESC 8, V-8, Z87.1 or CE.
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SAFETY Operator Safety Handling Gasoline Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive under certain conditions. • Always exercise extreme caution whenever handling gasoline. • Always turn off the engine when refueling. • Always refuel outdoors or in a well ventilated area free of any source of flame or sparks. •...
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SAFETY Operator Safety Operating on Public Roads This vehicle does not meet National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regulations for operation on public streets, roads and highways. Operating this vehicle on public streets, roads or highways could result in a collision with another vehicle. Never operate this vehicle on any public street, road or highway, including dirt and gravel roads (unless designated for off-highway use).
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SAFETY Operator Safety Descending Hills Improperly Improperly descending a hill could cause loss of control or rollover. Always follow proper procedures for traveling down hills as described in this owner’s manual. See page 34. Stalling While Climbing a Hill Stalling or rolling backwards while climbing a hill could cause a rollover. Always maintain a steady speed when climbing a hill.
N: Neutral R: Reverse P: Park Low gear is the primary driving range for the M1400. High gear is intended for use on hard- packed surfaces with light loads. Whenever the vehicle is left unattended, always place the transmission in PARK.
FEATURES AND CONTROLS Console Gear Selector Using Low Range Always shift into low gear for any of the following conditions. • Operating in rough terrain or over obstacles • Loading the vehicle onto a trailer • Towing heavy loads Brake Pedal Push the brake pedal toward the floor to slow or stop the vehicle.
FEATURES AND CONTROLS Fuel Cap The fuel tank filler cap is located on the right-hand side of the vehicle near the passenger seat. When refueling, always use either leaded or unleaded gasoline with a minimum pump octane number of 87 R+M/2 octane.
FEATURES AND CONTROLS Seat Belts This POLARIS vehicle is equipped with three- point lap and diagonal seat belts for the operator and passenger. Always make sure the seat belts are secured for all riders before operating. The driver's seat belt is equipped with a seat belt interlock.
FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Speedometer Indicator Lamps High water pressure may damage components. Wash the vehicle by hand or with a garden hose using mild soap. Do not use alcohol to clean the instrument cluster. Do not allow insect sprays to contact the lens.
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FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center The rider information center is located in the instrument cluster. All segments will light up for one second at start-up. If the instrument Trip 1 cluster fails to illuminate, a battery over-voltage may have occurred and the instrument cluster may have shut off to protect the electronic speedometer.
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FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center Use the MODE button to toggle through the information area options. Display Units (Standard/Metric) The display can be changed to display either standard or metric units of measurement. Tip: To exit the set-up mode at any time, wait 10 seconds. The display automatically exits and returns to the odometer display.
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FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center Odometer Mode The odometer records and displays the distance traveled by the vehicle. Trip Meter Mode The trip meter records the distance traveled by the vehicle if reset before each trip. To reset, select the trip meter mode.
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FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center Engine Error Codes Suspect Parameter The error screen displays only when the Error Code Number (SPN) Number (0-9) CHECK ENGINE light is on or when it goes on and off during one ignition cycle. Error codes are not stored.
Break-In Period The break-in period for your new POLARIS M1400 is the first 25 hours of operation, or the time it takes to use the first two tanks full of gasoline. No single action on your part is as important as a proper break-in period.
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Inspect for leaks Throttle Ensure proper operation Air filter, pre-filter Inspect, clean Headlamp Check operation, apply POLARIS dielectric grease when lamp is replaced Brake light/tail lamp Check operation, apply POLARIS dielectric grease when lamp is replaced Seat Belts Check length of belt for damage, check latches for...
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OPERATION Driving Procedure 1. All riders should wear substantial foot- wear, long pants and a close-fitting shirt. A hard hat or helmet and approved eye protection are recommended when appro- priate for working or riding conditions. 2. Sit in the driver's seat. 3.
OPERATION Driving with a Passenger 1. Perform the pre-ride inspection. See page 30. 2. Make sure all passengers are at least 12 years of age and tall enough to comfortably and safely sit in a passenger seat with the seat belt secured, put both feet on the floor and grasp the hand hold.
OPERATION Driving Over Obstacles Follow these precautions when operating over obstacles: 1. Always check for obstacles before operating in a new area. 2. Look ahead and learn to read the terrain. Be constantly alert for hazards such as logs, rocks and low hanging branches. 3.
OPERATION Driving Uphill Whenever traveling uphill, follow these precautions: 1. Always travel straight uphill. 2. Avoid excessively steep hills. 3. Keep both feet on the floor. 4. Always check the terrain carefully before ascending any hill. Never climb hills with excessively slippery or loose surfaces.
OPERATION Driving on a Sidehill (Sidehilling) Driving on a sidehill is not recommended. Improper procedure could cause loss of control or rollover. Avoid crossing the side of any hill unless absolutely necessary. If crossing a sidehill is unavoidable, follow these precautions: 1.
OPERATION Driving Through Water Your POLARIS M1400 can operate through water up to a maximum recommended depth equal to the floorboards. NOTICE: Immersion can result in major damage if the vehicle isn't serviced correctly and promptly. After immersion, always take the vehicle to your dealer service. Do not start the engine! If it's impossible to bring the vehicle to your dealer before starting the engine, perform the service outlined on page 65, and take the vehicle to your dealer at the first opportunity.
MPH (8 km/h) when towing loads in rough terrain, while cornering, or while ascending or descending a hill. The POLARIS M1400 has been designed to carry or tow specific capacities. Always read and understand the load distribution warnings listed on the warning labels.
Total Hitch Maximum Load Weight Load Weight Vertical Towing (Level Ground) (15° grade) Weight Speed POLARIS M1400 1500 lbs. 850 lbs. 150 lbs. 10 MPH (680.4 kg) (386 kg) (68.1 kg) (16 kph) Belt Life To extend belt life, use the lowest gear possible when hauling or towing heavy loads.
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OPERATION Dumping the Cargo Box Release 1. Select a level site to dump the cargo box. Do not attempt to Lever dump or unload the vehicle while parked on an incline. 2. Apply the brakes. 3. Place the transmission in PARK. 4.
OPERATION Transporting the Vehicle When transporting the POLARIS M1400 for a long distance or on public streets, always use a trailer with an approved load rating greater than the POLARIS M1400 curb vehicle weight of 1060 lbs. (481 kg) plus any installed accessories or cargo.
WINCH GUIDE These safety warnings and instructions apply if your vehicle came equipped with a winch or if you choose to add an accessory winch to your vehicle. WARNING Improper winch use can result in SEVERE INJURY or DEATH. Always follow all winch instructions and warnings in this manual.
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WINCH GUIDE Winch Safety Precautions 13. Never winch up or down at sharp angles. This can destabilize the winching vehicle and possibly cause it to move without warning. 14. Never attempt to winch loads that weigh more than the winch’s rated capacity. 15.
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WINCH GUIDE Winch Operation Read the Winch Safety Precautions in the preceding pages before using your winch. Tip: Consider practicing the operation and use of your winch before you actually need to use it in the field. WARNING Improper winch use can result in SEVERE INJURY or DEATH. Always follow all winch instructions and warnings in this manual.
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WARNING! Replace the winch cable at the first sign of damage to prevent SEVERE INJURY or DEATH in the event of failure. For your safety, always replace POLARIS winch parts (including the cable) with genuine POLARIS replacement parts available at your authorized dealer.
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WINCH GUIDE Winch Operation 8. Read and adhere to the following information for winch damping to ensure safe winch use. In order to absorb energy that could be released by a winch cable failure, always place a “damper” on the winch cable. A damper can be a heavy jacket, tarp, or other soft, dense object.
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WINCH GUIDE Winch Operation 13. Extensive winching will run down the battery on the winching vehicle. Let the winching vehicle’s engine run while operating the winch to prevent the battery from running low if winching for long periods. 14. The winch motor may become hot during winch use. If you winch for more than 45 seconds, or if the winch stalls during operation, stop winching and permit the winch to cool down for 10 minutes before using it again.
WINCH GUIDE Winch Cable Care For your safety, always replace POLARIS winch parts (including the cable) with genuine POLARIS replacement parts available at your authorized dealer. WARNING! Use of worn or damaged cable could lead to sudden failure and SEVERE INJURY.
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WINCH GUIDE Shock Loading WARNING! Your winch cable is very strong but it is NOT designed for dynamic, or “shock” loading. Shock loading may tension a winch cable beyond its strength and cause the cable to break. The end of a broken winch cable under such high loading can cause SEVERE INJURY or DEATH to you and other bystanders.
3. Never work on your winch without first disconnecting the battery connections to prevent accidental activation of the winch. 4. For your safety, always replace POLARIS winch parts (including the cable) with genuine POLARIS replacement parts available at your authorized dealer.
Operation on Public Lands in the U.S.A. Your POLARIS vehicle has a spark arrester that was tested and qualified to be in accordance with the USFS standard 5100-1c. Federal law requires that this spark arrester be installed and functional when the vehicle is operated on public lands.
Any qualified repair shop or person may maintain, replace or repair the emission control devices or systems on your vehicle. An authorized POLARIS dealer can perform any service that may be necessary for your vehicle. POLARIS also recommends POLARIS parts for emissions-related service, however equivalent parts can be used.
MAINTENANCE Periodic Maintenance Chart Perform all services at whichever maintenance interval is reached first. Check and lubricate all components at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart, or more often under severe use, such as wet or dusty conditions. Items not listed in the chart should be lubricated at the general lubrication interval.
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MAINTENANCE Periodic Maintenance Chart Item Maintenance Interval Remarks (whichever comes first) Hours Calendar Miles (Km) Cooling system (if applicable) 50 H Inspect coolant strength seasonally; pressure test system yearly Oil lines, fasteners 50 H Inspect for leaks and loose fittings Wiring 100 H 12 M...
MAINTENANCE Lubrication Recommendations Check and lubricate all components at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 51, or more often under severe use, such as wet or dusty conditions. Items not listed in the chart should be lubricated at the general lubrication interval. Item Lube Method...
MAINTENANCE Engine Oil Always check and change the oil at the intervals Upper Oil Fill outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 51. Always use the recommended engine oil. See page 54. NOTICE: Allowing dirt or debris to enter the engine can result in serious engine damage.
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MAINTENANCE Engine Oil Oil and Filter Change Always check and change the oil at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 51. Always change the oil filter whenever changing oil. The engine drain plug is located on the bottom of the crankcase. 1.
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MAINTENANCE Engine Oil Oil and Filter Change 12. Lubricate the o-ring for the new filter with a film of fresh engine oil. Check to make sure the o-ring is in good condition. Install the o-ring to the filter cover. 13. Reinstall the oil filter spring, then install the new filter. 14.
Refer to the Gearcase Specifications Chart for recommended lubricants, capacities and torque specifications. See page 84 for the part numbers of POLARIS products. Fluid Check The fill plug is located on the rear of the gearcase.
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Refer to the Gearcase Specifications Chart on page 58 for recommended lubricants, capaci- ties and torque specifications. See page 84 for the part numbers of POLARIS products. Oil Check The front gearcase fill plug is located on the right side of the front gearcase.
Refer to the specifications section beginning on page 82 for the recommended spark plug type for your vehicle. Always torque spark plugs to specification. NOTICE: Using non-recommended spark plugs can result in serious engine damage. Always use POLARIS-recommended spark plugs or their equivalent. Spark Plug Gap/Torque Model...
Observe coolant levels and maintain as recommended by adding coolant to the overflow bottle. Adding or Changing Coolant POLARIS recommends the use of POLARIS Antifreeze 50/50 Premix. This antifreeze is already premixed and ready to use. Do not dilute with water. See page 84 for the part numbers of POLARIS products.
MAINTENANCE Cooling System Overflow Bottle Coolant Level Always check and change the coolant at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 51. Maintain the coolant level between the minimum and maximum marks on the bottle (when the fluid is cool).
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• See your dealer as outlined in the owner's manual. • This PVT system is intended for use on POLARIS products only. Do not install it in any other product. • Always make sure the PVT housing is securely in place during operation.
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MAINTENANCE POLARIS Variable Transmission (PVT) System Belt Replacement/Debris Removal 8. Rotate the driven clutch by hand until the belt is completely off. Step 8 9. Slide the front of the belt out from between the drive clutch and inner clutch cover to completely remove it.
6. Take the vehicle in for service as soon as possible, whether you succeed in starting it or not. Your POLARIS dealer can provide the required service. 7. If water has been ingested into the PVT follow the procedure on page 65 for drying.
6. Reinstall the air filter (if clean) or install a new air filter (if soiled). Do not attempt to clean the air filter. NOTICE: Use of a non-POLARIS-approved air filter may cause engine damage. Always use a POLARIS-approved replacement filter. See page 84 for the part numbers of POLARIS products.
MAINTENANCE Spark Arrester WARNING Failure to heed the following warnings while servicing the spark arrester could result in serious injury or death. • Do not perform service on the spark arrester while the system is hot. Exhaust system temperatures can reach 1000° F. Allow components to cool sufficiently before proceeding. •...
MAINTENANCE Brakes The front and rear brakes are hydraulic disc type brakes. Press down on the brake pedal to engage the brakes. See page 21. Brake Fluid Inspect the brake system routinely. Inspect the level of the brake fluid before each operation. WARNING! After opening a bottle of brake fluid, always discard any unused portion.
MAINTENANCE Steering Wheel Inspection Check the steering wheel for specified freeplay and smooth operation at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 51. 1. Position the vehicle on a level surface. 2. Lightly turn the steering wheel left and right. There should be 0.8"-1.0” (20-25 mm) of freeplay at the outer rim of the steering wheel.
Always follow all tire maintenance procedures as outlined in this manual and on the labels on the vehicle. Always use POLARIS-approved size and type of tires for this vehicle when replacing tires. Tire Tread Depth Always replace tires when tread depth is 1/8"...
MAINTENANCE Tires Wheel Installation 1. Place the transmission in PARK. Place the wheel in the correct position on the wheel hub. Be sure the valve stem is toward the outside and rotation arrows on the tire point toward forward rotation. WARNING! Improperly installed wheels can adversely affect tire wear and vehicle handling, which can result in serious injury or death.
MAINTENANCE Lights Poor lighting can result in reduced visibility when driving. Headlight and taillight lenses become dirty during normal operation. Clean lights frequently and replace burned out lamps promptly. Do not operate this vehicle at night or in low light conditions until the headlight is replaced.
MAINTENANCE Lights Headlight Beam Adjustment 1. Place the vehicle on a level surface with the headlight approximately 25 ft. (7.6 m) from a wall. 8" (20 cm) 2. Measure the distance from the floor to the center of the headlight and make a mark on the wall at the same height.
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MAINTENANCE Battery WARNING Battery electrolyte is poisonous. It contains sulfuric acid. Serious burns can result from contact with skin, eyes or clothing. Antidote: External: Flush with water. Internal: Drink large quantities of water or milk. Follow with milk of magnesia, beaten egg, or vegetable oil.
MAINTENANCE Battery Battery Removal WARNING Improperly connecting or disconnecting battery cables can result in an explosion and cause serious injury or death. When removing the battery, always disconnect the negative (black) cable first. When reinstalling the battery, always connect the negative (black) cable last. 1.
Check battery voltage each month during storage and recharge as needed to maintain a full charge. See page 77. POLARIS recommends maintaining battery charge by using a POLARIS Battery Tender charger or by charging about once a month to make up for normal self-discharge. Battery Tender can be left connected during the storage period, and will automatically charge the battery if the voltage drops below a pre-determined point.
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MAINTENANCE Battery Battery Charging (Conventional Battery) 1. Remove the battery from the vehicle to prevent damage from leaking or spilled electrolyte during charging. See page 75. 2. Charge the battery with a charging output no larger than 1/10 of the battery’s amp/hr rating.
NOTICE: Certain products, including insect repellents and chemicals, will damage plastic surfaces. Do not allow these types of products to contact the vehicle. The best and safest way to clean your POLARIS vehicle is with a garden hose and a pail of mild soap and water.
Stabilize the Fuel 1. Fill the fuel tank. 2. Add POLARIS Carbon Clean Fuel Treatment or POLARIS Fuel Stabilizer or equivalent fuel treatments or stabilizers. Follow the instructions on the container for the recom- mended amount. Carbon Clean removes water from fuel systems, stabilizes fuel and removes carbon deposits from pistons, rings, valves and exhaust systems.
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5. Turn the engine over several times. Oil will be forced in and around the piston rings and ring lands, coating the cylinder with a protective film of fresh oil. 6. If POLARIS fuel system additive is not used, fuel tank, fuel lines, and injectors should be completely drained of gasoline.
MAINTENANCE Storing the Vehicle Any time the vehicle will be parked for more than a few hours, follow the recommended storage procedures: 1. Make any necessary repairs and clean the vehicle. See page 78. 2. Inspect all cables and lubricate all areas of the vehicle as recommended in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 51.
TROUBLESHOOTING Drive Belt Wear/Burn Possible Cause Solution Driving onto a pickup or tall Use low range during loading. trailer in high range Starting out going up a steep Use low range. See warnings on page 34. incline Driving at low RPM or ground Drive at a higher speed or use low range more frequently.
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TROUBLESHOOTING Engine Doesn't Turn Over Possible Cause Solution Low battery voltage Recharge the battery to 12.8 VDC Loose battery connections Check all connections and tighten Loose solenoid connections Check all connections and tighten Loose electronic control box connections Inspect, clean, reinstall connectors Engine Turns Over, Fails to Start Possible Cause Solution...
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TROUBLESHOOTING Engine Runs Irregularly, Stalls or Misfires Possible Cause Solution Fouled or defective spark plug Inspect, clean and/or replace spark plug Worn or defective spark plug wires Your dealer can assist. Incorrect spark plug gap or heat range Set gap to specs or replace plug Loose ignition connections Check all connections and tighten Water present in fuel...
This warranty is transferable to another owner during the warranty period through a POLARIS dealer, but any such transfer will not extend the original term of the warranty. The duration of this warranty may vary by international region based upon local laws and regulations.
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THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY SHALL BE, AT POLARIS' OPTION, REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF ANY DEFECTIVE MATERIALS, COMPONENTS, OR PRODUCTS. THE REMEDIES SET FORTH IN THIS WARRANTY ARE THE ONLY REMEDIES AVAILABLE TO ANY PERSON FOR BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY.
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If you purchase from a private party: If you purchase a POLARIS product from a private party, to be kept and used outside of the country in which the product was originally purchased, all warranty coverage will be denied. You must nonetheless register your product under your name and address with a local POLARIS dealer in your country to ensure that you receive safety information and notices regarding your product.
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30 calendar months from the date of purchase, whichever comes first. This EPA emissions warranty period is extended for at least as long as the standard factory warranty that POLARIS provides on the vehicle as a whole. The EPA emissions warranty period does not further extend if you purchase additional warranty coverage in the form of a service contract or other paid warranty extension, but emission-related parts may be covered subject to the terms of any such paid service contract or paid warranty extension.
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The exclusive remedy for breach of this limited warranty shall be, at the exclusive option of POLARIS, repair or replacement of any defective materials, components or products. THE REMEDIES SET FORTH IN THIS LIMITED WARRANTY ARE THE ONLY REMEDIES AVAILABLE TO ANY PERSON FOR BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY.
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For your nearest Polaris dealer, call 1-800-POLARIS (765-2747) or visit www.polaris.com Polaris Industries Inc. 2100 Highway 55 Medina, MN 55340 Part No. 9926638 Rev 01 Printed in USA...
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