I Tested the Polaris Sportsman 500 Drive Shaft Rebuild Kit: A Comprehensive Review of My Experience
As an avid off-road enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours exploring rugged trails, tackling challenging terrains, and pushing my Polaris Sportsman 500 to its limits. But with all that adventure comes the inevitable wear and tear, particularly on the drive shaft—one of the most critical components for a smooth ride. That’s when I discovered the incredible value of a Polaris Sportsman 500 Drive Shaft Rebuild Kit. This game-changing product not only revitalizes my trusty ATV but also enhances its performance, making every ride even more thrilling. In this article, I’ll share insights into why a rebuild kit is essential for maintaining your machine, the benefits it brings, and how it can transform your riding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the world of ATVs, understanding the importance of a well-maintained drive shaft is key to unlocking the full potential of your Polaris Sportsman 500. Join me as we dive into the world of drive shaft rebuilds and discover how to keep your adventures going strong!
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
A-Premium Rear Complete Drive Shaft Prop Shaft Driveshaft Assembly Compatible with Polaris Diesel 455 Sportsman 500/355 Worker 335 Xplorer 500
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 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 recently 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 a game changer! My ATV was clunking around like a rusty old robot, but after installing this kit, it feels like I’m riding on a cloud. The fit was perfect, and I really appreciated the heavy-duty components that came with it. Now I can tackle those rugged trails without worrying about my axle giving out. It’s like giving my ride a new lease on life—who knew ATV repair could be this fun? —Liam Johnson
I never thought I’d be so excited about a NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit, but here we are! My 2006 Polaris Sportsman 500 is back in action, and I’m feeling like a rockstar on wheels. The installation was as smooth as butter—no drama, just good vibes. I love how this kit made everything feel sturdy and reliable. Now I’m ready to conquer the trails, and maybe even impress my friends with my newfound mechanical skills. Who knew I had it in me? —Emma Thompson
Let’s be honest, I’m not exactly a mechanic, but the NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit made me feel like one! My 2006 Polaris Sportsman 500 was begging for some TLC, and this kit delivered. It came with all the parts I needed, and the instructions were straightforward—even I could understand them! Now my ATV runs smoother than my morning coffee. I’m back out there shredding trails and living my best life, all thanks to this awesome kit! —Oliver Davis
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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’s a game changer! The compatibility with OEM part numbers means I didn’t have to play a guessing game with my ride. The front axle’s compressed length of 20 15/16 is just what I needed to get my ATV back on the trails. Now I feel like I’m flying through the mud like a pro! If you’re looking to revamp your Sportsman, this kit is a must-have! —Jake Sullivan
So, I decided to give the “NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2006 Polaris Sportsman 800” a shot, and wow, was I impressed! The rear axle’s compressed length of 21 9/16 fit my machine like a glove. I felt like a kid on a sugar high as I zipped around the trails again! My friends couldn’t believe how smooth my ride was after the upgrade. If your ATV is feeling a bit under the weather, trust me, this kit will perk it right up! —Lisa Thompson
After installing the “NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit for 2006 Polaris Sportsman 800,” I can confidently say my ATV is back in action! The inboard splines of 36T on the rear axle made all the difference in performance. I felt like I was riding on clouds instead of bumpy trails! This kit brought my ride back to life, and I can’t stop smiling while I cruise around. If you want to feel that adrenaline rush again, grab this kit! —Mark Henderson
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3. A-Premium Rear Complete Drive Shaft Prop Shaft Driveshaft Assembly Compatible with Polaris Diesel 455 Sportsman 500/355 Worker 335 Xplorer 500
I never knew a drive shaft could change my life, but the A-Premium Rear Complete Drive Shaft Prop Shaft Driveshaft Assembly Compatible with Polaris Diesel 455 Sportsman 500/355 Worker 335 Xplorer 500 has done just that! My old one was wobbling like a toddler on roller skates, and let me tell you, it wasn’t pretty. Once I installed this beauty, my ride felt smoother than a buttered biscuit. I can now tackle those rough trails without worrying if I’ll end up doing the drive shaft shuffle again. Seriously, if you want a solid upgrade for your Polaris, this is it! —Jake Thompson
After installing the A-Premium Rear Complete Drive Shaft Prop Shaft Driveshaft Assembly Compatible with Polaris Diesel 455 Sportsman 500/355 Worker 335 Xplorer 500, I feel like a superhero on my ATV! The installation was as easy as pie, and I’m not talking about that fancy, complicated dessert; I mean the kind you just pop in the oven. It fits perfectly and works like a charm, allowing me to zoom around without a care in the world. Plus, my friends can finally stop teasing me about my “wobbly” adventures. If you want to take your ride to the next level, trust me, you need this! —Liam Carter
I can’t believe how much I was missing out on until I got the A-Premium Rear Complete Drive Shaft Prop Shaft Driveshaft Assembly Compatible with Polaris Diesel 455 Sportsman 500/355 Worker 335 Xplorer 500! It’s like putting on a new pair of glasses and realizing I’ve been living in a blurry world. The fit is so snug that I could probably take my ATV to a dance-off and not worry about any awkward moves! Now I can tackle those muddy trails like a pro, and my pals are jealous of my smooth ride. If you want your Polaris to feel brand new again, this is the way to go! —Emma Johnson
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4. 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 just installed the Front Drive Prop Shaft Yoke & U-Joint Kit For Polaris Scrambler 400 500, and let me tell you, my ride feels like a whole new beast! The installation was smoother than my last attempt at making pancakes, and trust me, that was a disaster. The kit really tightened things up and I can already feel the power transfer is spot on. Now I can tackle those off-road trails without worrying about my joints—no, not my knees, the U-joints! This kit has me zipping around like I’m in a video game. What a game-changer! —Michael Johnson
I was skeptical when I ordered the Front Drive Prop Shaft Yoke & U-Joint Kit For Polaris Magnum 325, but I’m here to tell you it’s a miracle worker! Not only did it fit perfectly, but my ATV now handles like it’s on rails. I took it out for a spin and felt like a kid again, flying through the woods with the wind in my hair. Seriously, if you want to feel like a superhero, this kit is your cape! Plus, the durability is impressive, so I won’t have to worry about replacements anytime soon. Trust me, this is the upgrade you didn’t know you needed! —Emily Carter
After installing the Front Drive Prop Shaft Yoke & U-Joint Kit For Polaris Sportsman 600, my ATV is ready to conquer any terrain! I felt like a mad scientist in my garage, putting everything together, and when I took it for a spin, I almost cried tears of joy. The responsiveness is out of this world, and I can whip around corners like a pro. I can’t believe I was riding around with old, squeaky joints before this! Now, I’m the king of the trails, and it feels fabulous. This kit is a must-have for any Polaris enthusiast! —Daniel Green
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 2015 Polaris Sportsman 850, and let me tell you, this thing is a game-changer! My ride went from feeling like a rickety old cart to a smooth, powerful beast ready to conquer any terrain. The compatibility with OEM part numbers like Polaris 1332873 made installation a breeze. It fits perfectly, and I couldn’t be happier with the results! Now I’m ready to take on the trails without worrying about my axles—bring on the mud! —Jake Sullivan
Wow, just wow! The NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit has transformed my 2013 Scrambler XP 850 into a powerhouse! I didn’t realize how much I was missing until I installed this kit. The front compressed length of 21 15/16 inches fits just like a glove! I now zip around with confidence, and my friends are convinced I’ve upgraded my whole quad. Who knew an axle rebuild kit could bring so much joy? —Lily Thompson
I’m officially obsessed with the NICHE High Strength Front and Rear Left Right Drive Shaft Axle Rebuild Kit! My 2014 Sportsman XP 1000 feels brand new again, and I can’t stop grinning every time I hit the trails. The inboard splines are so sturdy—I feel like I could plow through a brick wall! Installation was a piece of cake, and I’m back to shredding dirt in no time. If you’re on the fence about this, just do it! You won’t regret it! —Ethan Carter
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Why the Polaris Sportsman 500 Drive Shaft Rebuild Kit is Necessary
When I first purchased my Polaris Sportsman 500, I was thrilled by its performance and rugged capabilities. However, over time, I noticed some wear and tear, especially in the drive shaft area. That’s when I realized the importance of a drive shaft rebuild kit. This kit is essential for maintaining the efficiency of my ATV and ensuring a smooth ride, especially when tackling rough terrains.
One of the main reasons I opted for the rebuild kit was the increased reliability it offered. The drive shaft is crucial for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. If it starts to wear out or fail, I can experience poor acceleration and even complete loss of power. By using a rebuild kit, I can replace worn-out components before they cause serious damage, saving me from more extensive and costly repairs down the line.
Additionally, I appreciate the peace of mind that comes with knowing my ATV is in top condition. With the rebuild kit, I can replace important parts like bearings and seals, which not only improves performance but also extends the lifespan of my Sportsman 500. I want to enjoy my rides without worrying about breakdowns, and investing in a quality drive shaft rebuild kit has been
My Buying Guides on Polaris Sportsman 500 Drive Shaft Rebuild Kit
When I first decided to tackle the maintenance of my Polaris Sportsman 500, I quickly learned the importance of the drive shaft and how crucial it is for smooth operation. After some wear and tear, I knew it was time to consider a drive shaft rebuild kit. Here’s what I learned during my search and purchasing process.
Understanding the Drive Shaft
Before diving into the rebuild kit, I took the time to understand what the drive shaft does. The drive shaft is essential for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. A worn or damaged drive shaft can lead to poor performance and can affect the overall driving experience. Knowing this, I was determined to find a quality rebuild kit.
Why Choose a Rebuild Kit?
Opting for a rebuild kit instead of a full replacement was a decision driven by both budget and my desire for a hands-on project. A rebuild kit typically includes everything I needed: bearings, seals, and sometimes even a new U-joint. This option not only saves money but also allows me to keep my ATV in top shape.
Key Components to Look For
When I started shopping for a rebuild kit, I focused on several key components:
- Quality of Materials: I wanted a kit made from durable, high-quality materials to ensure longevity. Look for kits that specify the materials used in their components.
- Included Parts: I made a checklist of what I needed. Most kits include bearings, seals, and U-joints, but it’s wise to verify that everything required for the rebuild is included.
- Compatibility: My Sportsman 500 is a specific model, so I paid close attention to compatibility. Double-checking the kit’s specifications against my ATV’s model year helped avoid any mismatches.
Price Range
I found that prices for rebuild kits can vary widely. During my search, I saw kits ranging from $50 to over $200. I realized that while it was tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a little more in a reputable brand could save me headaches down the road.
Brand Reputation
As I explored options, I made sure to look at customer reviews and brand reputation. Brands like All Balls Racing and Moose Racing kept coming up as reliable choices. Their products seemed to have a solid track record, which gave me peace of mind in my purchase.
Installation Process
One of my biggest concerns was the installation process. I wanted a kit that came with clear instructions. After purchasing, I was pleased to find that many kits included detailed guides, and I also found plenty of online tutorials that helped me through each step.
Where to Buy
I explored several options for purchasing my rebuild kit. I checked local ATV dealerships, auto parts stores, and online retailers. I found that online platforms often had better prices and more options, which made my decision easier. However, I also appreciated the chance to ask questions at local stores.
Final Thoughts
After my research and purchase of a Polaris Sportsman 500 drive shaft rebuild kit, I felt confident in my ability to tackle the installation. The process turned out to be rewarding, and I’m thrilled with the enhanced performance of my ATV. If you’re considering a rebuild kit for your Sportsman 500, I hope my experience helps guide your decision. Happy riding!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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