Content Source: 2020 GENERAL 4 1000 Owner’s Manual (9929902 R3) > Maintenance Chapter

IMPORTANT

The Owner's Manual for this vehicle contains warnings, instructions and other information you must read and fully understand before safely riding or performing maintenance on this vehicle.Always follow the warnings and instructions in Owner's Manual.

Click the CONTENTS link above for the Table Of Contents, or download a full PDF of the Owner Manual in the Owner Support area of Polaris.com

Cleaning and Storage

Washing the Vehicle

Keeping your POLARIS vehicle clean will not only improve its appearance but it can also extend the life of various components.
NOTICE
Water in the PVT system could cause the drive belt to become wet and slip in the clutches. When washing the vehicle, always avoid spraying water directly toward the PVT intake screen.
High water pressure may damage components. POLARIS recommends washing the vehicle by hand or with a garden hose, using mild soap.
Certain products, including insect repellents and chemicals, will damage plastic surfaces. Do not allow these types of products to contact the vehicle.
The best and safest way to clean your POLARIS vehicle is with a garden hose and a pail of mild soap and water.
  1. Use a professional-type washing cloth, cleaning the upper body first and the lower parts last.
  2. Rinse with clean water frequently.
  3. Dry surfaces with a chamois to prevent water spots.

Washing Tips

  • Avoid the use of harsh cleaners, which can scratch the finish.
  • Do not use a power washer to clean the vehicle.
  • Do not use medium to heavy duty compounds on the finish.
  • Always use clean cloths and pads for cleaning and polishing. Old or reused cloths and pads may contain dirt particles that will scratch the finish.
  • Grease all zerk fittings immediately after washing. Allow the engine to run for a while to evaporate any water that may have entered the engine or exhaust system.
If a high pressure water system is used for cleaning (not recommended), exercise extreme caution. The water may damage components and could remove paint and labels. Avoid directing the water stream at the following items:

  • Wheel bearings
  • Radiator
  • Transmission seals
  • Brakes

  • Cab and body panels
  • Labels and decals
  • Electrical components and wiring
  • Air intake components
If an informational or graphic label becomes illegible or comes off, contact your POLARIS dealer, or other qualified person, to purchase a replacement. Replacement safety labels are provided by POLARIS at no charge.

Polishing the Vehicle

POLARIS recommends the use of common household aerosol furniture polish for polishing the finish on your POLARIS vehicle. Follow the instructions on the container.

Polishing Tips

  • Avoid the use of automotive products, some of which can scratch the finish of your vehicle.
  • Always use clean cloths and pads for cleaning and polishing. Old or reused cloths and pads may contain dirt particles that will scratch the finish.

Storage Tips

NOTICE
Starting the engine during the storage period will disturb the protective film created by fogging and damage could occur. Never start the engine during the storage period.

Clean the Exterior

Make any necessary repairs and clean the vehicle as recommended.

Stabilize the Fuel

  1. Fill the fuel tank.
  2. Add POLARIS Carbon Clean Fuel Treatment or POLARIS Fuel Stabilizer or equivalent fuel treatments or stabilizers. Follow the instructions on the container for the recommended amount. Carbon Clean removes water from fuel systems, stabilizes fuel and removes carbon deposits from pistons, rings, valves and exhaust systems.
  3. Allow the engine to run for 15-20 minutes to allow the stabilizer to disperse through the entire fuel delivery system.

Oil and Filter

Change the oil and filter. See the Engine Oil section.

Air Filter / Air Box

Replace the air filter. See Maintenance Chapter. Clean the air box.

Inspect and Lubricate

Inspect all cables and lubricate all areas of the vehicle as recommended in the Periodic Maintenance Chart.

Battery Maintenance

See the Battery Storage section and Battery Charging section for storage and charging procedures.

Fluid Levels

Inspect the fluid levels. Add or change fluids as recommended in the Periodic Maintenance Chart.
  • Demand drive fluid (front gearcase)
  • Rear gearcase fluid (if equipped)
  • Transmission fluid
  • Brake fluid (change every two years and any time the fluid looks dark or contaminated)
  • Coolant (test strength/fill)

Fog the Engine

  1. Treat the fuel system with POLARIS Carbon Clean or other equivalent fuel treatment. Follow the instructions on the container. Start the engine. Allow it to idle for several minutes so the Carbon Clean reaches the injectors. Stop the engine.
  2. Remove the spark plugs and add 1–1.5 oz. (29.5–44 cc.) of engine oil. To access the plug holes, use a section of clear 6 mm (1/4”) hose and a small plastic squeeze bottle filled with the pre-measured amount of oil. Do this carefully! If you miss the plug holes, oil will drain from the spark plug cavities into the hole at the front of the cylinder head, and appear to be an oil leak.
  3. Reinstall the spark plugs. Torque to specification.
  4. Apply dielectric grease to the inside of each spark plug cap. Do not reinstall the cap onto the plug at this step.
  5. Turn the engine over several times. Oil will be forced in and around the piston rings and ring lands, coating the cylinder with a protective film of fresh oil.
  6. Reinstall the spark plug caps.
  7. If POLARIS fuel system additive is not used, fuel tank, fuel lines, and injectors should be completely drained of gasoline.

Storage Area / Covers

Be sure the storage area is well ventilated. Cover the vehicle with a genuine POLARIS cover. Do not use plastic or coated materials. They do not allow enough ventilation to prevent condensation, and may promote corrosion and oxidation.

Removal from Storage

WARNING
Engine exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide and can cause loss of consciousness or death. Never run an engine in an enclosed area.
  1. Check the battery electrolyte level and charge the battery if necessary. Install it in the vehicle. Make sure the battery vent hose is routed properly and that it's not pinched or restricted in any way.
  2. Make sure spark plugs are tight.
  3. Fill the fuel tank with fuel.
  4. Check all the points listed in the Daily Pre-Ride Inspection. Tightness of the bolts, nuts and other fasteners should be checked by an authorized dealer or other qualified service facility.
  5. Lubricate at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart.

Transporting the GENERAL

Follow these procedures when transporting the vehicle.
  1. Place the transmission in PARK. Stop the engine.
  2. Slowly release the brake pedal and make sure the transmission is in PARK before exiting the vehicle.
  3. Remove the key to prevent loss during transporting.
  4. Secure the fuel cap, hood, doors (if equipped) and cargo box. Ensure that the seats are attached correctly and are not loose.
    WARNING

    Cargo and other loose vehicle parts may fly off while transporting this vehicle. Secure or remove all cargo, and inspect the unit for loose parts prior to transport.

    If transporting the vehicle in a non-enclosed trailer, then the vehicle must FACE FORWARD, or roof must be removed.

    Failure to comply may allow airflow, vibration, or other factors to separate the roof from the vehicle and cause an accident, resulting in serious personal injury or death.

  5. Always tie the frame of the POLARIS vehicle to the transporting unit securely with suitable straps or rope. Do not attach tie straps to the front A-arm bolt pockets.

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