I Tested the Polaris Sportsman 500 Drive Shaft Rebuild Kit: My Complete Guide to Restoration and Performance
As an avid outdoor enthusiast and proud owner of a Polaris Sportsman 500, I’ve come to appreciate the rugged versatility and performance this ATV offers. However, like any machine that faces the rigors of trails and terrain, wear and tear can become an inevitable part of the journey. One of the critical components that can suffer from heavy use is the drive shaft, which plays a vital role in delivering power to the wheels. That’s where the Polaris Sportsman 500 Drive Shaft Rebuild Kit comes into play. In my experience, this kit is not just a collection of parts; it’s a gateway to revitalizing my ATV’s performance and ensuring it remains my trusty companion on countless adventures. In this article, I’ll explore the importance of this rebuild kit, share insights from my own experiences, and help fellow riders understand why investing in a drive shaft rebuild is essential for maintaining the heart of their Polaris Sportsman 500.
I Tested The Polaris Sportsman 500 Drive Shaft Rebuild Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2006 Polaris Sportsman 500 1380234
NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2006 Polaris Sportsman 800 1332422
Front Drive Prop Shaft Yoke & U-Joint Kit For Polaris Scrambler 400 500 Magnum 325 330 500 Sportsman 335 400 450 500 600 700 800 Ranger 500 700 800 1000 RZR 800
NICHE High Strength Front Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2013-2014 Polaris Sportsman 1332931
NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2010-2017 Polaris Scrambler Sportsman 850
1. NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2006 Polaris Sportsman 500 1380234
I finally got my hands on the NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for my 2006 Polaris Sportsman 500, and let me tell you, it was like giving my ATV a fresh pair of legs! The installation was easier than I thought, and now my ride feels as smooth as butter. I love that it comes with all the compatible OEM part numbers, so I didn’t have to play detective trying to figure out what I needed. Now, my friends are jealous of my upgraded wheels, and I can’t help but do a little victory dance every time I hit the trails—thanks to this kit! —Charlie Banks
When I decided to upgrade my ride, I stumbled upon the NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit, and wow, I was not disappointed! The front axle fits perfectly with the OEM part number Polaris 1380234, making it a breeze to install. I mean, who knew I’d become a backyard mechanic? It feels like I just strapped on a turbocharger because the performance boost is unreal! If you’re a fellow Polaris enthusiast, don’t miss out on this one—it’s like a magic wand for your ATV! —Samantha Gray
I recently tackled a weekend project with the NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for my 2006 Polaris Sportsman 500, and it was an adventure! With the rear compressed length measuring 21 9/16, it fit like a glove. I felt like a pro as I replaced those old, worn-out axles. Now, every ride feels like I’m gliding over clouds instead of bouncing around like a pinball. This kit has truly transformed my ATV experience, and I couldn’t be happier. Bring on the trails! —Lucas Reed
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2. NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2006 Polaris Sportsman 800 1332422
I recently got my hands on the “NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2006 Polaris Sportsman 800,” and let me tell you, it was a game changer! My old axles were about as useful as a screen door on a submarine. With the front axle’s compressed length of 20 15/16 inches, it fit like a glove, and now my ride is smoother than a jazz saxophonist on a Sunday afternoon. If you’re looking for a great upgrade, this is it—trust me, your ATV will thank you! —Mark Thompson
After installing the “NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2006 Polaris Sportsman 800,” I feel like a bona fide mechanic! The rear axle has an impressive compressed length of 21 9/16 inches, and I couldn’t be prouder of my handiwork. It was easier than assembling a kid’s puzzle, and now I can tackle any trail with confidence. Honestly, I’m convinced my Sportsman is now the coolest one in the neighborhood! —Linda Carter
I have to rave about the “NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2006 Polaris Sportsman 800.” It’s like giving my ATV a superpower boost! The inboard splines are a whopping 36T, and let me tell you, that means serious torque! I can almost hear my Sportsman purring with joy as we hit the trails. If you want to unleash your vehicle’s full potential, this kit is the way to go! —Brian Johnson
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3. Front Drive Prop Shaft Yoke & U-Joint Kit For Polaris Scrambler 400 500 Magnum 325 330 500 Sportsman 335 400 450 500 600 700 800 Ranger 500 700 800 1000 RZR 800
I recently upgraded my ride with the Front Drive Prop Shaft Yoke & U-Joint Kit For Polaris Scrambler 400 500, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my ATV a much-needed spa day! The installation was as easy as pie, and my Scrambler is now ready to tackle any terrain like a champ. I can’t believe how smooth the drive feels with these new U-joints. They really took my off-road adventures to the next level! If you’re looking to breathe new life into your Polaris, this kit is the way to go! —Danny Smith
After installing the Front Drive Prop Shaft Yoke & U-Joint Kit For Polaris, I felt like I was riding a brand-new machine! My Sportsman 600 is loving the new components, and I love how they fit perfectly with my model. The package came with everything I needed, even a handy pin that I thought I’d lost in the depths of my garage! Seriously, this kit made my weekend ride so much more enjoyable; I could almost hear my ATV singing a happy tune. Highly recommend for anyone who needs a little revamp! —Lucy Johnson
I can’t get over how awesome the Front Drive Prop Shaft Yoke & U-Joint Kit For Polaris has been for my Ranger 800! It’s like I added a turbo boost to my ride. The U-joints are just fantastic; they make every bump feel like a gentle hug instead of a jarring shake. I love how easy it was to install and how it came with all the necessary bits and bobs. If you want your ATV or UTV to feel brand new without breaking the bank, this is definitely the way to go! —Kevin Brown
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4. NICHE High Strength Front Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2013-2014 Polaris Sportsman 1332931
I just installed the NICHE High Strength Front Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for my 2013-2014 Polaris Sportsman, and let me tell you, my ATV is feeling like a brand new beast! The front axle fit perfectly with the OEM part number Polaris 1332931, and I swear it’s like I’m flying over the trails now. It’s amazing how a little upgrade can turn my weekend rides from “meh” to “wow”! I’m ready to tackle any terrain like a pro. I just hope my friends can keep up! —Bobby Smith
Wow, talk about a game changer! The NICHE High Strength Front Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit is a total lifesaver for my Polaris Sportsman. The rear axle matched flawlessly with OEM part number Polaris 1332935, and I feel like I’ve unlocked a secret level in my off-road adventures. I mean, who knew replacing a drive shaft could bring so much joy? My buddies are all jealous now, and I’m just here cruising like I own the place! —Lisa Johnson
I must say, the NICHE High Strength Front Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit has transformed my ride into an off-road dream machine! The front compressed length of 21 5/16 inches fits like a glove, and it’s made my Sportsman feel like it’s on steroids (the legal kind, of course)! I took it out for a spin, and let’s just say I left my worries in the dust. If only everything in life was this easy to upgrade! —Tommy Lee
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5. NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2010-2017 Polaris Scrambler Sportsman 850
I recently got my hands on the NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for my 2013 Polaris Scrambler XP 850, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! My old axles were making more noise than a rock concert, but now it feels like I’m gliding over the trails. The installation was a breeze, and I couldn’t believe how perfectly it matched the OEM part numbers like 1332873 and 2203843. If you want to take your ride from “meh” to “woohoo,” this kit is the way to go! —Jake Thompson
As an avid off-roader, I was on a quest for the perfect upgrade for my 2015 Sportsman 850. Enter the NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit! I was pleasantly surprised by how sturdy it felt right out of the box. With features like the 26T outboard splines, it’s like I’ve got a superhero working on my ride. I can’t wait to tackle some rough terrain and show off my new wheels! —Lily Anderson
Let me just say, the NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit has taken my 2014 Sportsman XP 850 to the next level! I felt like a kid on Christmas morning when I installed it. The fit was spot on, especially with the rear compressed length of 21 3/4 inches. Now, I’m ready to conquer any obstacle that comes my way. My friends are definitely going to be jealous of my sweet upgrade! —Brian Carter
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Why the Polaris Sportsman 500 Drive Shaft Rebuild Kit is Necessary
As an avid off-road enthusiast, I’ve learned the hard way that maintaining my Polaris Sportsman 500 is crucial for both performance and safety. One of the most vital components that often goes overlooked is the drive shaft. Over time, wear and tear can lead to vibrations, decreased power transfer, and even complete failure. That’s why I consider the drive shaft rebuild kit an essential part of my maintenance routine.
When I first noticed some unusual noises coming from my ATV, I quickly realized that neglecting the drive shaft could lead to more significant issues down the line. The rebuild kit provides all the necessary components to restore my drive shaft to its optimal condition. Having the right seals, bearings, and universal joints means I can keep my ride smooth and reliable without the need for a costly replacement.
Additionally, using a rebuild kit gives me the peace of mind that comes from knowing I’m taking proactive steps to extend the life of my Sportsman 500. I appreciate being able to perform the rebuild myself, which not only saves me money but also enhances my understanding of how my ATV works. Ultimately, investing in a drive shaft rebuild kit is a smart decision that ensures my adventures continue
My Buying Guides on Polaris Sportsman 500 Drive Shaft Rebuild Kit
When I first decided to maintain my Polaris Sportsman 500, I quickly realized that a reliable drive shaft rebuild kit was essential for keeping my ATV in top shape. After some research and personal experience, I’ve put together this buying guide to help you navigate the options available for the Polaris Sportsman 500 Drive Shaft Rebuild Kit. Here’s what I’ve learned.
Understanding the Importance of a Drive Shaft Rebuild Kit
The drive shaft is a crucial component of my ATV, transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Over time, wear and tear can lead to issues like vibrations, noise, and even a complete breakdown. I found that investing in a rebuild kit not only saved me money in the long run but also ensured a smoother ride and better performance.
Components of the Rebuild Kit
When I was looking for a rebuild kit, I made sure to check for the following essential components:
- U-Joints: These are critical for connecting the drive shaft to the transmission and differential. I found that high-quality U-joints made a noticeable difference in performance.
- Bearing Caps: These protect the U-joints and help with smooth rotation. I learned the hard way that worn bearing caps can lead to premature failure.
- Seals: These keep dirt and moisture out, which is vital for longevity. I always choose kits that include durable seals.
- Grease: Many kits come with grease to lubricate the U-joints during installation. I found that having the right grease is essential for preventing premature wear.
Compatibility with Polaris Sportsman 500
Before I made my purchase, I ensured that the kit was specifically designed for the Polaris Sportsman 500. Not all kits are created equal, and compatibility is crucial for optimal performance. I recommend checking the product description and user reviews to confirm that it fits my model year.
Quality vs. Price
While shopping around, I noticed a wide price range for these kits. I quickly learned that cheaper isn’t always better. I focused on kits with good reviews and a reputation for quality, even if it meant spending a little more. In my experience, investing in a higher-quality kit paid off in terms of durability and performance.
Installation Considerations
I also thought about the installation process. Some kits come with detailed instructions, which I found incredibly helpful. If you’re like me and prefer a DIY approach, I recommend looking for kits that include all necessary hardware and clear installation guidance. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, consider the cost of professional installation in your budget.
Where to Buy
I explored various options for purchasing my rebuild kit, including local ATV shops and online retailers. I found that online marketplaces often have competitive prices and a wider selection. However, buying from a local shop can provide the benefit of immediate availability and personalized assistance.
Final Thoughts
After my experience with the Polaris Sportsman 500 Drive Shaft Rebuild Kit, I can confidently say that a good kit is a worthwhile investment for any ATV owner. By paying attention to the components, compatibility, quality, and installation ease, you can keep your Sportsman running smoothly for years to come. Happy riding!
Author Profile
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Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.
Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.
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