1997 Polaris Sportsman fuel pump problem?

[Sportsman500Rider]

I have a 1997 Polaris Sportsman 500 that i bought a few days ago but it may have a fuel pump problem. I was riding good for about 20min. then it just wanted to die then it would go again for a second then almost die again etc. Also the atv doesn't seem to have as much power as it should and it tops out at about 40mph when it should go 55mph.

 

[scottsrdscott]

does the exhaust seem hotter than it should be? When my King's pump was toast it would backfire and dump super hot exhaust gas. Also, when my buddy's renegades pump was toast you could see this red hot glowing ember in his exhaust.

 

[Sportsman500Rider]

i don't think its overly hot at least not that hot