1985-1995 Polaris ATV and Light Utility Hauler Service Manual, Page 396Get this manual
ELECTRICAL Starting System Troubleshooting Condition Possible Cause Correction
Starter operates, but fails to engage the flywheel
-Starter drive problem -Ring gear problem -Battery hooked up backwards
-Repair or replace starter drive -Repair or replace flywheel ring gear -Connect red battery cable to battery positive (+) terminal, black cable to battery negative (-) terminal -Use multitester to determine battery polarityIf battery is charge backwards, totally discharge and recharge properlyCAUTION: If reverse polarity is connected to the electrical system, the charging system will be damaged-Make sure the engine turns freely -Refer to battery service unit -Refer to starting system dynamic test -Refer to starter motor static test
-Battery charged backwards
Starter turns slowly(Determine amp drawshould be between 2550 ampsHigher numbers indicate an engine or starter problemLower numbers indicate circuit problem