2013 Polaris Sportsman 500 HO Oil Change-First Experience

[mtheis]

Hello Everyone. My first oil change was due (@25 hours) and after researching the internet I never really learned all of what I need in one concise document. Here are some bullet points:

1) Even if the oil doesn't look dirty on the oil stick, it will be filthy when you dump it out of the reservoir. Change It.

2) Use a 14mm wrench to remove oil drain bolt.

3) Clean the end off the drain bolt. There is a magnet there and mine was definately full of crud.

4) My original Polaris oil filter was labeled "3FD" as a part number. Mine was on so tight from the factory I had to buy a Sears Adjustable filter wrench to use with a 3/8" wratchet.

5) My replacement oil filter was a WIX (Napa) number #51358. This looked identical to the Polaris version Tousley Sports Center showed me. Either way, you will need to buy a K&L Oil Filter Socket #35-4980 to properly tighten it back on.

6) Be sure to oil the rubber ring and fill it with some oil before you put the filter back on. Clean all surfaces as well.

7) I used Rotella T6 5W-40 synthetic oil. Polaris oil is 5W-50. I couldn't find that viscosity anywhere. For my summer oil change (@50 hours) I will look again. Polaris wants $36.00 (at Tousley) for 2 quarts of oil and filter. You will need 2 Quarts of oil.

8) I did NOT clean the screen. Maybe next summer. Almost all users report that it is always clean when they check it.