How To Change Spark Plugs On Polaris Sportsman 700 – Your Complete DIY
Is your trusty Polaris Sportsman 700 starting a little harder these days? Maybe it’s idling rough, hesitating when you hit the throttle, or just doesn’t have that punch it used to. You’re not alone; these are classic signs that your engine’s unsung heroes—the spark plugs—are due for a change.
We promise this isn’t a job reserved for the dealership. With a few common tools and a bit of patience, you can absolutely tackle this yourself. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from gathering the right tools to the final torque twist, giving you the confidence to complete the job right.
Get ready to learn the exact steps for how to change spark plugs on Polaris Sportsman 700, discover pro tips that prevent costly mistakes, and restore that crisp, reliable performance you love. Let’s get those wrenches turning.
Why Bother Changing Your Sportsman 700’s Spark Plugs? (The Benefits)
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Replacing your spark plugs is one of the most cost-effective maintenance tasks you can perform, and the rewards are immediate. It’s a key part of any good How To Change Spark Plugs On Polaris Sportsman 700 care guide.
The benefits of changing your spark plugs on your Polaris Sportsman 700 are clear and tangible. You’re not just replacing a part; you’re revitalizing your machine’s core performance.
- Easier Starting: A strong, consistent spark from a new plug ignites fuel more effectively, making cold starts quicker and more reliable.
- Smoother Idle and Acceleration: Worn plugs can cause misfires, leading to a rough idle and jerky acceleration. Fresh plugs deliver a stable spark for a noticeably smoother ride.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: When your engine burns fuel completely on every combustion stroke, it doesn’t have to work as hard. This translates directly to better gas mileage on the trail.
- Restored Power: Over time, fouled or worn plugs rob your engine of power. New plugs ensure optimal combustion, bringing back that lost horsepower and torque.
- Proactive Problem Prevention: Inspecting your old plugs can reveal underlying engine issues, like oil consumption or a rich fuel mixture, before they become major repairs.
Gearing Up: The Right Tools & Parts for the Job
Having everything you need on hand before you start makes the job go smoothly. There’s nothing worse than getting halfway through a project only to realize you’re missing a crucial tool. Here’s your complete checklist.
Essential Parts
- New Spark Plugs (x2): The Polaris Sportsman 700 has a twin-cylinder engine, so you’ll need two plugs. The most common and recommended plug is the NGK BKR6E. Always double-check your owner’s manual for the exact part number.
- Dielectric Grease: A small packet is all you need. This protects the electrical connection inside the spark plug boot from moisture and corrosion.
- Anti-Seize Compound: This prevents the steel spark plug from getting stuck (galling) in the aluminum cylinder head, making future changes much easier. Use it sparingly.
Essential Tools
- Ratchet Wrench: A standard 3/8-inch drive ratchet is perfect.
- Spark Plug Socket: You’ll need a 5/8-inch deep-well spark plug socket. These have a rubber insert inside to grip the plug, which is extremely helpful.
- Socket Extension: A 3-inch or 6-inch extension will be necessary to reach the plugs.
- Torque Wrench: This is highly recommended. Over-tightening a spark plug can damage your engine’s cylinder head, a very expensive mistake.
- Spark Plug Gapper Tool: A simple coin-style or feeler gauge tool to ensure the gap on the new plugs is correct.
- Compressed Air or a Shop Brush: To clean the area around the spark plugs before removing them.
- Safety Glasses & Gloves: Always protect yourself when working on any vehicle.
The Complete How To Change Spark Plugs On Polaris Sportsman 700 Guide
Alright, you’ve got your tools and your new plugs. Now for the main event. We’ve broken down this How To Change Spark Plugs On Polaris Sportsman 700 guide into simple, manageable steps. Take your time and follow along closely.
Step 1: Safety First & Prep Your Workspace
First things first: safety. Make sure your ATV is parked on a level surface and the engine is completely cool to the touch. Working on a hot engine is a recipe for burns and seized parts.
For added safety, you can disconnect the negative terminal of your battery. This prevents any accidental electrical shorts. Ensure your workspace is clean and well-lit.
Step 2: Accessing the Spark Plugs
The Sportsman 700’s twin-cylinder engine places the spark plugs on either side of the engine, just below the fuel tank. You’ll need to remove the seat and the side body panels to get clear access.
The panels are typically held on by a few plastic fasteners or screws. Once removed, you will clearly see the black spark plug wires (or boots) connected to the top of the engine’s cylinder heads.
Step 3: Removing the Old Spark Plugs
This is a critical stage where a little care goes a long way. Before you touch the plug itself, clean the area around it! Use compressed air or a brush to clear away any dirt, sand, or debris. You do not want that falling into your engine’s cylinder.
Next, grip the spark plug boot firmly and pull it straight off the plug with a slight twisting motion. It might be on there snugly, but it will pop off. Do one plug at a time to avoid mixing up the wires.
Now, place your 5/8-inch spark plug socket and extension onto the plug. Turn your ratchet counter-clockwise to loosen it. It should break free with a little effort and then unscrew easily.
Step 4: Reading the Old Plugs – What Your Engine is Telling You
Don’t just toss the old plug. Take a moment to inspect it, as it’s a window into your engine’s health. This is where you can diagnose common problems with How To Change Spark Plugs On Polaris Sportsman 700.
- Normal: The tip should be a light tan or grayish-brown color. This indicates a healthy, well-tuned engine.
- Carbon Fouled: A dry, black, sooty deposit suggests the engine is running too rich (too much fuel) or has a weak spark.
- Oil Fouled: A wet, black, oily deposit can indicate worn piston rings or valve seals, meaning oil is leaking into the combustion chamber.
- White & Blistered: A chalky white or blistered insulator tip means the engine is running too hot or too lean (not enough fuel).
Step 5: Preparing and Installing the New Spark Plugs
Before you install the new plug, check the gap. For the NGK BKR6E, the gap should be around 0.035 inches (0.9mm). Use your gapper tool to verify and gently adjust if needed.
Next, apply a very thin layer of anti-seize compound to the threads of the new spark plug. Avoid getting any on the electrode or insulator. This is one of the most important how to change spark plugs on Polaris Sportsman 700 tips.
Carefully thread the new plug into the cylinder head by hand. This is crucial to prevent cross-threading. It should screw in smoothly for several turns. If you feel any resistance, stop, back it out, and try again.
Step 6: The Final Torque & Reconnecting
Once the plug is hand-tight, it’s time for the torque wrench. The proper torque spec for the Sportsman 700 is typically around 18 ft-lbs (25 Nm). Tightening to the correct spec ensures a proper seal without damaging the plug or the cylinder head.
Before reconnecting the wire, squeeze a small dab of dielectric grease into the opening of the boot. This seals out moisture and makes future removal easier. Push the boot back onto the spark plug until you feel or hear a distinct “click,” confirming it’s fully seated.
Repeat the process for the second cylinder. Once both plugs are replaced, reinstall the side panels and seat, reconnect your battery if you disconnected it, and fire it up! You should notice a smoother, more responsive engine right away.
Best Practices & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Following these How To Change Spark Plugs On Polaris Sportsman 700 best practices will ensure your DIY job is a success every time.
- DON’T over-tighten the spark plugs. This is the #1 mistake and can lead to stripped threads in the cylinder head—a very costly repair. Always use a torque wrench.
- DO clean the area around the old plug before removing it. This simple step prevents dirt from entering your engine.
- DON’T drop the new spark plug. A fall can crack the porcelain insulator or close the electrode gap, rendering the plug useless.
- DO start threading the new plug by hand. This gives you the feel to ensure it’s not cross-threaded.
- DO use a tiny bit of anti-seize on the threads and dielectric grease in the boot. These small steps make a huge difference in long-term maintenance.
Thinking Green: Sustainable Spark Plug Maintenance
Believe it or not, this simple maintenance task has an eco-friendly side. A proper approach to your sustainable How To Change Spark Plugs On Polaris Sportsman 700 maintenance contributes to a healthier environment.
Fresh spark plugs ensure a more complete combustion of fuel. This not only improves your gas mileage but also reduces harmful emissions from your exhaust. A well-tuned engine is a cleaner engine.
When you’re done, don’t just toss the old plugs in the trash. They are made of metal and ceramic and can be recycled. Check with your local auto parts store or recycling center for proper disposal options. It’s a small but meaningful step for any eco-friendly How To Change Spark Plugs On Polaris Sportsman 700 owner.
Frequently Asked Questions About How To Change Spark Plugs On Polaris Sportsman 700
How often should I change the spark plugs on my Sportsman 700?
A good rule of thumb is to inspect them annually and replace them every 100 hours of use or every two years, whichever comes first. If you ride in particularly harsh, dusty, or wet conditions, you may want to check them more frequently.
What is the correct spark plug for my Polaris Sportsman 700?
The most commonly recommended spark plug is the NGK BKR6E. However, it’s always best practice to confirm the specific part number in your owner’s manual for your exact model year.
Why is using a torque wrench so important?
A torque wrench ensures the spark plug is tightened to the manufacturer’s exact specification. Under-tightening can cause the plug to vibrate loose and leak compression, while over-tightening can stretch the plug’s metal shell or, worse, strip the threads in the aluminum cylinder head, requiring a major engine repair.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully learned how to change the spark plugs on your Polaris Sportsman 700. By taking on this job yourself, you’ve not only saved money but also gained a deeper understanding of your machine. Now you can hit the trails with the confidence of a well-maintained and peak-performing ATV. Ride safe and enjoy the smooth power!
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