1999 Polaris Sportsman 500 Coolant

[cmandsager]

With this old (1999) Polaris Sportsman 500 which has not run for several years, do you recommend flushing and changing out the coolant? It is not leaking and looks good.

[Mech]

Yes you should, and I'd change the thermostat too..  I'd give it a couple of runs first though and check it hasn't developed any leaks(on the water pump seal for instance), from sitting, and I'd gently pinch all the coolant hoses between my fingers listening for the sound of the string reinforcing in the hose breaking. It sounds like rustling leaves or something like that being scrunched. You'll hear and feel it if the reinforcing is weak and breaking under your fingers.  Then change the coolant and thermostat and fix any leaks or hoses all at the same time.