Ask: I have a 2003 Yamaha Kodiak 450 4WD. My speedometer's OEM part number is SND-83500-2000, and I found out the one ending in 0000 also fits. Mine is broken. I can replace it with a friend's almost-new speedometer from a 660 Grizzly, but the part number for that one is 5KM-83500-4000. They look identical, and so do the connector cables. Could it be a problem if I use it in my Kodiak?
Mikey: Are you writing because you've already installed the Grizzly meter and are now having electrical problems? There are occasions where parts are interchangeable between different units. These two look nearly identical, but they do indeed have different part numbers, and the price between the two greatly differ. It may or may not bolt up and operate, but I'm guessing there are internal features that aren't compatible. I would suggest giving East Coast ATV a call (610/282-0369, www.eastcoastatv.com) to see if it has a used meter assembly in stock to help reduce the steep $450 price of a new unit. Maybe you can find a used Grizzly in your price range that only needs a speedometer.
Ask: Mikey, I have a 2005 Polaris 500 H.O. It has been a perfect running machine up until two weeks ago. I was riding the kids around the farm when I attempted to start the ATV up after a short ride and it was completely dead. I checked the kill switch, battery, solenoid, ignition wiring, etc. I even attempted to pull-start the ATV and jump-start the bike jumping the solenoid. The ATV would turn over but it was as if the kill switch was turned off. I am sure the battery is working because the winch on the ATV works. The instrumentation panel will not display anything, nor do the lights work. I have purchased a new kill switch/light switch, but I have yet to install the switch. I am merely guessing at this point. Any suggestions?
Mikey: If you continue to purchase parts, you will indeed eventually discover the root of your problem. You could even possibly end up with enough parts to build yourself a second Polaris 500 H.O. Before draining your bank account using this proven technique you should take the time to thoroughly inspect the machine's electrical system for obvious problems. Look for wires that could have rubbed the frame and become grounded, loose connections and definitely check the ground on your ATV. If you can't track down the problem on your own, a service manual will have detailed instructions on how to check each individual component. Yes, you will have to buy this manual but I'd bet it's cheaper than the switch you've already ordered and probably won't even need.