Which Mod

[Tom318]

Hey guys I'm new to the forums here. Looking for help on where I should start with performance mods. I have an 08 500 ho, as of right now the only changes to the machine ive made is mudlite tires and a snow plow. I would like to upgrade machines but thats not in the budget right now. Where should I sart? In your experience whats going to give me the most bang for the buck? Im not a real motorhead but ive always been able to accomplish my own motorwork on my toys. I use the machine for alot of hunting so i dont want it to get to loud.

Thanks in advance for any help
Tom

[racer37l]

If you want ground clearance, then a lift kit.

If you want more power on bottom end, then a clutch kit.

If you need carrying capacity, then check out some storage boxes.

A good winch is always handy. This probably first!

There are various ways to carry your bow or guns.

[Bruce!]

Welcome to the board!

[Razorback]

You didn't specify what size tires you put on, but I will assume that you went larger than stock.

In no particular order:
Brush guards are a must have. Plastic body parts don't like trees at all.
Winch
HD springs (especially with the snow plow)
Clutch kit
Seal the inner and outer clutch covers with silicon. The inner cover around the engine output shaft is especially prone to leaking. You'll need a clutch puller to do this.
Wix or Uni air filter
3 headlight mod
Lock and ride box, ammo cans, or whatever for extra storage.
Spare belt, tire plug kit, air pump, and enough tools to fix most trail problems

[lost cause]

since you have changed your tires and you say you have a snow plow, that 500 would greatly benefit from a clutch kit. Especially when pushing snow.

[Tom318]

Sorry guys I should have been a little more specific. I kept the tires stock sized. I also already have a 3500lb polaris winch, 3 headlight mod, wired the rear work lights. I am mainly looking for performance mods, to give me more power as most the guys im riding with are on 700 or 800 machines. I was leaning towards a clutch kit, but not being real familiar with those on an atv - I know it will give me more on the low end but will it take away from the top speed?

[Razorback]

No, it doesn't change the gear ratios, just makes the clutch engage the belt at lower rpm. Transfers power to the wheels faster and prevents belt slippage/wear. It would def. be a good idea to get a kit to help with pushin the plow. It will, however, give you the feeling that you've gained power. A lot of energy is lost to belt slippage. A clutch kit will put that energy to the wheels and you will most definitely feel a difference.

As far as power mods, unless you get reallly extreme, like with a top end and piston rebuild, you won't get a whole lot more power out of it. You can put on an aftermarket muffler, high flow filter, and rejet... but the little bit of power gained probably wouldn't be worth the expense and trouble, IMO.

[lost cause]

Clutch kit is probably what you are looking for. As far as more power, you will have to spend at least $1,000 for just a couple HP. You are not going to turn a 500 into an 800. Not worth it in my opinion. Save that money and just buy a larger bike.