There’s nothing quite like the feeling of hitting the trail on your trusty 2004 Polaris Sportsman 700. But that feeling quickly turns to frustration when you hit the starter and get nothing but a weak click. We’ve all been there—a dead battery can kill a perfect day of riding before it even starts.
At FatBoysOffroad, we promise to get you back on the trail fast. This isn’t just a list of part numbers; it’s a complete guide to understanding everything about your ATV’s power source. We’re here to give you the confidence to tackle this job yourself.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the exact 2004 Polaris Sportsman 700 battery size you need, explore the different battery technologies available, walk you through a safe installation, and provide essential maintenance tips to keep your machine firing up every single time.
The Right Fit: Unpacking the 2004 Polaris Sportsman 700 Battery Size
Let’s get straight to the point. Finding the correct battery size is the most critical first step. An improperly sized battery either won’t fit in the tray or won’t provide the necessary power, leading to starting issues and potential damage.
For the 2004 Polaris Sportsman 700 (both Twin and EFI models), the standard OEM replacement battery size is typically a YTX20L-BS. This is a common battery group size in the powersports world.
But what do those numbers and letters actually mean? Let’s break it down.
Decoding the Battery Part Number: YTX20L-BS
- YTX: This is a manufacturer designation for a high-performance, sealed AGM battery. While different brands might use slightly different prefixes (like CTX or PTX), the core numbers that follow are what matter most.
- 20: This number relates to the battery’s power output or performance rating. A higher number generally indicates a more powerful battery.
- L: This is crucial. The ‘L’ stands for “Left,” indicating that the negative terminal is on the left side when you’re looking at the front of the battery. Getting this wrong means your cables won’t reach!
- BS: This simply means “Bottle Supplied.” Traditionally, these batteries came with a separate acid pack that you had to add before the first use. Today, most are factory-activated and ready to install.
Physical Dimensions and Terminal Placement
Beyond the part number, the physical dimensions are what ensure a snug, secure fit. A loose battery can vibrate excessively, leading to internal damage and premature failure.
A standard YTX20L-BS battery has the following approximate dimensions:
- Length: 6.875 inches (175 mm)
- Width: 3.4375 inches (87 mm)
- Height: 6.125 inches (155 mm)
Pro Tip: Before you buy, it’s always one of the best 2004 polaris sportsman 700 battery size best practices to pop open your battery compartment and measure the old battery or the tray itself. A quick check with a tape measure can save you the headache of a return.
Beyond the Size: Choosing the Best Battery Type for Your Sportsman 700
Knowing the size is half the battle. The other half is choosing the right battery technology for your riding style. The original battery was a conventional lead-acid type, but technology has come a long way. This is where you can realize the benefits of 2004 polaris sportsman 700 battery size choices.
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Batteries
This is the most popular and recommended upgrade for the Sportsman 700. In an AGM battery, the electrolyte is absorbed into fiberglass mats sandwiched between the lead plates. This design makes them spill-proof and highly vibration-resistant—perfect for off-road abuse.
- Pros: Maintenance-free, excellent vibration resistance, can be mounted in any position, holds a charge longer than conventional batteries.
- Cons: Slightly more expensive than conventional flooded batteries.
Gel Batteries
Gel batteries are similar to AGM but use a silica-based gel to suspend the electrolyte. They are known for their deep-cycle capabilities and resistance to extreme temperatures.
- Pros: Superb vibration and heat resistance, very long service life if properly maintained.
- Cons: More expensive, can be sensitive to overcharging.
Lithium (LiFePO4) Batteries
Lithium is the top-tier option for performance junkies. These batteries are incredibly lightweight (often saving 5-10 pounds) and offer powerful, consistent cranking amps. They are also a more sustainable 2004 polaris sportsman 700 battery size option due to their longer lifespan.
- Pros: Extremely lightweight, very high cranking power, very long life (2000+ charge cycles), low self-discharge rate.
- Cons: Significantly higher upfront cost, may require a special lithium-compatible battery charger/tender.
Step-by-Step Installation: A DIY Guide for Your Sportsman 700 Battery
Ready to get your hands dirty? Swapping the battery on your Sportsman is a straightforward job you can do in under 30 minutes with basic tools. Here’s how to 2004 polaris sportsman 700 battery size and install it correctly.
Tools and Safety Gear You’ll Need:
- New YTX20L-BS (or equivalent) battery
- Wrench or socket set (typically 8mm and 10mm)
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Wire brush or battery terminal cleaner tool
- Dielectric grease or terminal protector spray
Step-by-Step Removal and Installation:
- Locate the Battery: On most 2004 Sportsman 700 models, the battery is located under the seat. Remove the seat by unlatching it.
- Safety First – Disconnect the Negative: This is the most important step! Using your 10mm wrench, always disconnect the black negative (-) terminal first. This prevents accidental short-circuits if your wrench touches the frame while loosening the positive terminal. Tuck the negative cable aside.
- Disconnect the Positive: Now, you can safely disconnect the red positive (+) terminal.
- Remove the Hold-Down Bracket: There will be a bracket or strap holding the battery in place. Remove the bolts or unhook the strap to free the battery.
- Lift Out the Old Battery: Carefully lift the old battery out of the tray. Be mindful that lead-acid batteries are heavy and contain corrosive materials.
- Clean the Area: Before installing the new battery, take a moment to clean the battery tray and the cable terminals. Use a wire brush to scrub away any corrosion (that white or greenish powder). A clean connection is a good connection.
- Install the New Battery: Place your new, fully charged battery into the tray. Re-secure the hold-down bracket, ensuring the battery is snug and won’t move.
- Connect the Positive First: When reinstalling, you do the reverse of removal. Connect the red positive (+) terminal first and tighten it securely.
- Apply Protector: Apply a thin layer of dielectric grease or a spray of terminal protector to the positive terminal. This helps prevent future corrosion.
- Connect the Negative Last: Now, connect the black negative (-) terminal and tighten it. Apply protector to this terminal as well.
- Final Check: Give the cables a gentle tug to ensure they are tight. Replace the seat, turn the key, and fire up your ATV!
Common Problems with 2004 Polaris Sportsman 700 Battery Size and Performance
Even with the right battery, you can run into issues. Understanding these common problems with 2004 polaris sportsman 700 battery size and power systems can save you a lot of diagnostic headaches.
Parasitic Drain
A parasitic drain is when a component continues to draw power even when the key is off. On an older ATV, this could be a faulty voltage regulator, a stuck relay, or an aftermarket accessory that’s wired incorrectly (like a winch or light bar).
Troubleshooting Tip: If your new battery dies after a few days of sitting, you likely have a parasitic drain. You can test for this using a multimeter set to measure amps, but it can be a tricky process. If you’re not comfortable with electronics, this is a good time to consult a professional.
Corroded Terminals
Corrosion acts like an insulator, preventing the full flow of electricity from the battery to the starter. Even a brand-new battery will seem weak if the terminals are fuzzy with corrosion. Regular cleaning is key.
Charging System Failure
Your Sportsman’s stator and voltage regulator are responsible for recharging the battery while the engine is running. If either of these components fails, your battery will not recharge, and you’ll eventually be left stranded. A healthy system should produce around 13.8 to 14.5 volts at the battery terminals when the engine is running above idle.
Maximizing Lifespan: Your 2004 Polaris Sportsman 700 Battery Size Care Guide
A quality battery is an investment. With a little care, you can easily double its lifespan. This 2004 polaris sportsman 700 battery size care guide is all about smart maintenance.
Use a Battery Tender
If you don’t ride your ATV every week, a battery tender (or smart charger) is your best friend. Unlike a simple trickle charger, a tender monitors the battery’s voltage and only applies a charge when needed. This prevents overcharging and keeps the battery in peak condition during storage.
Keep it Clean
Periodically inspect your battery terminals for any signs of corrosion. A simple cleaning with a wire brush and a baking soda/water paste can neutralize any acid and ensure a solid electrical connection.
Check for Tightness
Vibration is a battery killer. Every few rides, just double-check that your battery hold-down bracket is secure and that the terminal bolts haven’t vibrated loose. This simple check is one of the easiest 2004 polaris sportsman 700 battery size tips to follow.
The Eco-Conscious Rider: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Battery Options
Being an off-roader means respecting the environments we love to explore. Choosing a more eco-friendly 2004 polaris sportsman 700 battery size option and disposing of your old one properly is a huge part of that.
The Lithium Advantage
While the initial cost is higher, Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries are a more sustainable 2004 polaris sportsman 700 battery size choice in the long run. They can last up to 5 times longer than a lead-acid battery, meaning fewer batteries are consumed and discarded over the life of your ATV.
Proper Battery Disposal
Never throw an old battery in the regular trash. Lead-acid batteries contain toxic heavy metals and corrosive acid that are incredibly harmful to the environment. Almost any place that sells vehicle batteries is required by law to accept old ones for recycling. When you buy your new battery, simply bring the old one with you to the store for proper, safe disposal.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2004 Polaris Sportsman 700 Battery Size
Can I use a bigger battery in my Sportsman 700?
Physically, you are limited by the size of the battery tray. While you might find a battery with slightly higher Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) in the same YTX20L-BS case size, you generally cannot fit a physically larger battery without modification. Sticking to the recommended size is almost always the best option.
What are Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) and how many do I need?
CCA is a measure of a battery’s ability to start an engine in cold temperatures (0°F / -18°C). For a 2004 Sportsman 700, a battery with around 270-310 CCA is more than sufficient. AGM and Lithium batteries typically offer excellent CCA ratings for their size.
My new battery is dead. Is it faulty?
It’s possible, but unlikely. Most “dead” new batteries are the result of either not being fully charged before installation or an underlying issue with the ATV, like a parasitic drain or a faulty charging system. Always verify your ATV’s charging system is working correctly when you install a new battery.
Why is my battery terminal melting?
A melting terminal is a clear sign of a very poor, loose connection. The extreme electrical resistance at the loose spot generates a massive amount of heat, causing the lead terminal to melt. Always ensure your terminal bolts are clean and tight to prevent this dangerous situation.
Choosing, installing, and maintaining the right battery for your 2004 Polaris Sportsman 700 doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the correct size, picking the right technology for your needs, and following a few simple care practices, you can ensure your ATV is always ready for adventure. Now, get out there and hit the trails!
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