Performing Oil Changes - 11 Sportsman 500 HO

[swanny297]

Going to start doing my own oil changes to save a few $ - I have a 2011 sportsman 500 HO - from what I have found doing my searches I think this is what I need (for oil), 2qts Mobil1 0W40 and a wix 51358 oil filter. Couple of questions I haven't seen much on:

1. Do you have to change the drain plug seal every time you change your oil?
2. Do you have to clean your screen filter every time you change your oil?
3. You only have to purge your oil supply line when you clean the screen?

What about Transmission oil? Do you use Polaris or a shelf brand.

ATV is also at the camp, anyone know off the top of your head what size the drain plug bolt head is?

Thanks

[benm]

1. No you dont have to replace the gasket on the drain-plug unless its damaged. 2. I would clean the filter there is a good chance there might be something in it from break-in. 3.I drain the engine and the oil resevoir then purge it every oil change so I dont know the answer on this one. Just my opinion.

[pathfinder]

1.- no
2.-yes
3.-yes

I use polaris fluids and oil all the way around. I stick with what the manufacture recommends.
As for the drain plug on my 2010 500 it is an allen and the wrench came with the tool kit. The plugs are not torqued on very tight. At least on mine they weren't.

[kool_500HO]

I have never checked the screen yet and probably never will, a lot of people don't and the people that have, never found anything...I'll take my chances. The chances of strippin out the tank are higher then finding anything on the screen

[Russ C]

1=no
2=no
3=yes
I use the same oil in tranny as I run in the engine, only polaris oil I use is demand drive for front diff

[mowman]

I was told by my polaris tech to just drain the sump tank and change the filter ,but only do this after your first oil change. He said if you change your oil regularly that is all that i need to do. I use only Polaris oil and filters.That is what i was told....