Reverse-Flow Pumps?

Dear Ralph:
I recently purchased a new 900 Polaris RMK. I was thinking about the whole reverse system on it and was wondering what happens with my oil pump and water pump when the motor is going in reverse? Does anything change? Does the oil not get pumped or does the coolant not get circulated? If you have any feedback please let me know.
Robert Senn

Good question! The oil pumps are bi-directional, so they flow oil both ways. The water pump is not an issue, the impeller also runs in reverse and water will flow both ways, however; some of the motors are fitted with a thermostat, and if it is cold and allowed to idle for a long period of time (several minutes) you may see a water temp indicator. Damage should not occur, but this is the one little item that we have heard of. The amount of time the engine is running backwards is minimal, as is the power and heat level, so I wouldn’t sweat it.

As for the accessory add-on kits that upgrade an engine to electronic reverse, they include a new bi-directional oil pump.