2011 Polaris Sportsman 850 4th Ignition Switch

[bodon]

I have a 2011 850 Sportsman.  Has been absolutely trouble free except for 1 thing. I am on my 4th. ignition switch. I don't know if it's that they are all chinese junk or what.  It gets to a point  when you turn the key and it will act like the battery is going bad. Cranks real slow or not at all. Put a new switch in and its fine. New one will last 1 1/2 - 2 years and its junk. I've had the Polaris brand and after market. As a matter of fact the original one lasted the lest amount of time.  Other than that it's been a perfect machine . No electrical problems. No battery problems. Just curious if anyone else has had the same issue.

Edited January 19, 2020 by Admin
Updated topic title with full ATV info and issue

[Ajmboy]

That's interesting because you wouldn't think of a slow crank from an ignition switch, but more of a weak battery. They are pretty cheap on amazon for some of the aftermarket ones. Maybe they cause a slow battery drain after some issue? More than likely something else or an internal short within the ignition switch?

[Frank Angerano]

The next switch that goes bad hold it and to selectively take it apart and inspect the contact board to see if its burnt inside.  There could be a fault like @Ajmboy said maybe a back feed of 12v from someplace. Are there any aftermarket parts like a winch or lights on the bike ? 
 

[bodon]

Good idea. I have the most recent bad one. The ATV is 100% stock. No add ons of any sort.

[bodon]

Took it apart and it looked fine. No sign of any burn spots at all. I don't get it. New switch is working fine.

[Frank Angerano]

Ok well thats a good sign.  Maybe check the wiring going to the ignition to see that you only have one wire with 12v positive on it.   If you find more then one power source on that set of wires going to the ignition that it would be a questionable item.  
The only other thing i would check is to see if there is a recall on that year ignition switch. Maybe do a web search.   

[JacobSlabach]

Rhino needs to forget about making unbreakable axles and start making ig switches👍😁