9.4
BRAKES
9923412 - 2012 Sportsman 400/500 and EFI Tractor Service Manual
© Copyright 2011 Polaris Sales Inc.
Overview: Sportsman Forest 500 (INTL
A12MH50FF)
The Sportsman brake system consists of a complete
hydraulic brake system. All-wheel braking is integrated
into the foot brake and hand brake systems and allows 4
wheel braking from either control separately, or at the
same time.
When the foot brake is applied, all brake calipers are
ac
tive, as braking pressure is routed from the foot brake
master cylinder through the proportioning valve and
distribution block, exiting one line to the front calipers,
while the other line exits the proportioning valve and feeds
the outer line of the rear calipers.
When the hand brake is applied, all brake calipers are
ac
tive, as braking pressure is routed from the hand brake
master cylinder through the distribution block, exiting one
line to the front calipers, while the other line feeds the inner
line of the rear calipers.
When servicing Polaris ATV brake systems, use only
Pol
aris DOT-approved brake fluid.
Brake Noise Troubleshooting
Dirt or dust buildup on the brake pads and disc is the most
common cause of brake noise (squeal caused by
vibration). If cleaning does not reduce the occurrence of
brake noise, a product such as Permatex Disc Brake Quiet
can be applied to the back of the pads. Follow directions
on the package. This will keep pads in contact with caliper
piston(s) to reduce the chance of squeaks caused by dirt
or dust.
Once a bottle is opened, use what is necessary and
discard the rest in accordance with local laws. Do
not store or use a partial bottle of brake fluid. Brake
fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it rapidly absorbs
moisture. This causes the boiling temperature of
the brake fluid to drop, which can lead to brake fade
and the possible loss of control.
BRAKE NOISE TROUBLESHOOTING
POSSIBLE CAUSE REMEDY
Dirt, dust, or imbedded
material on pads or disc
Spray disc and pads with
CRC Brake
Kleen
ä or
equivalent non-flammable
aerosol brake cleaner.
Remove pads and/or disc
hub to clean imbedded
material from disc or pads.
Pad(s) dragging on disc
(no
ise or premature pad
wear)
Adjust pad stop
Insufficient lever or pedal
cle
arance
Set to proper level
Master cylinder reservoir
overfilled
Check brake fluid level,
ad
just as needed
Master cylinder
compensating port
restricted, Master cylinder
pisto
n not returning
completely, Caliper
piston(s) not returning
Clean piston(s) seal
Operator error (riding the
bra
ke / park brake
applied)
Educate operator
Loose wheel hub or
bea
rings
Tighten wheel, hub nuts or
replace bearings if worn
Brake disc warped or
ex
cessively worn
Replace disc
Brake disc misaligned or
loose
Inspect and repair as
necessary
Noise is from other source
(cha
in, axle, hub, disc or
wheel)
If noise does not change
wh
en brake is applied
check other sources.
Inspect and repair as
necessary
Wrong pad for
conditions
Change to a softer or
h
arder pad (if available)