Polaris Ranger is an exceptionally good UTV. Its amazing lift kit adds a different dimension to the vehicle’s performance. It keeps the car moving smoothly on all kinds of surfaces. Unfortunately, despite being a popular option, the Polaris Ranger lift kit problems are unignorable and it is one of the common problems that are frequent with Polaris Ranger. The strain, wear, and tear caused by these lift kits facilitate more damage than benefits. The good thing is you can easily handle these situations if you are aware of the reasons and know the right solutions. If you don’t have such ideas, this article will help you understand everything you need. By the end, you won’t have any confusion at all. So, let’s get into it.
Common Polaris Ranger Lift Kit Problems and Their Simple Solutions
One of the many good things about the Polaris Ranger is its easy-to-maintain structure. So, even if the vehicle bothers you with any issue, you can fix everything right away with the right approach.
Check out the common Polaris Ranger lift kit issues and their solutions below.
Problem 1: Difficulty Rotating The Car
Sometimes the CV joint bends and locks the inner bearing along with the cage. As a result of this axle bind, it becomes impossible to turn the vehicle. Pressing the accelerator pedal at this point can cause the internal explosion of the CV joint. This usually happens while driving the car on uneven ground. In such situations, the suspension can immediately fall off, causing a fatal damage.
Solution:
You can handle this situation by simply readjusting the relevant components. Firstly, make sure that the shafts are properly connected. Then, raise the machine while keeping the axle steady. This will increase the pivot angle of the axle.
If this doesn’t fix the issue, raise the vehicle to the point where the suspension is lowered all the way. And then, turn the four wheels manually. If the wheels don’t rotate freely, it means the axle is stuck, and you have to raise the suspension.
Problem 2: Knocking Sound While Driving
If you hear a knocking sound while driving, it means the lift kit of your Polaris Ranger. Here, the axle is likely responsible for the sound.
Usually, this weird knocking sound comes out from the front end after changing the tires or performing some modification with the axle. It has been observed that, in most cases, the problem occurred during hard turns.
Solution:
Replacing the front axle offers a better, steady lift, and this eventually mutes the sound. Experts recommend replacing the current axle with an OEM axle.
Although the process may cost a bit more than $500, it’s better to get the job done by a professional. So, if you find the knocking sound in your UTV, consult an expert immediately.
Problem 3: Steering is Unstable
Unstable steering is probably the most irritating issue of the Polaris Ranger lift kit. The lifting kits associated with steering stops are usually large, and due to the excess volume, they put extra weight on the front axle. Without any steering brake kit, it becomes difficult to maneuver the steering wheel in all directions. Not only this, the absence of a brake kit can cause damage to the main axle.
Solution:
The solution to this problem is using the right components. If your UTV has large lift kits, make sure to equip the vehicle with a heavy-duty axle as well. Stock axles won’t be able to handle a huge lift kit and, as a result, will pop even with a slight lift.
In case you want a simpler solution for the time being, add bigger tires to your car and avoid throttling while the vehicle gets stuck. But, eventually, it’s better to replace the axle.
Problem 4: Axle May Break
Having huge tires or a tall lift kit on your Polaris Range is actually your decision, and both are fine as long as you are satisfied. But, while they don’t apparently cause any problem, their indirect impact can be damaging.
Riding on an uneven road with a tall lift kit means the axle will have to withstand a heavy torque load. If the axle is not sturdy enough, it will bend. In case of excessive pressure, the axle can even snap or break as well.
This scenario is more common for UTVs that run on muddy roads or subtle terrain.
Solution:
Getting out of such a situation is easy. All you have to do is get a sturdier axle. If you are currently using an OEM axle, consult an expert. They will examine the weight and the overall structure of your UTV and suggest the ideal option.
If you don’t feel like replacing the axle, then consider gear reduction. Losing some extra weight will put significantly less pressure on the axle.
Problem 5: Overheating of CV Joints
The CV joints will overheat if you install a lift kit in your Polaris Ranger. There’s just no exception to it. This happens because the steep angle of the lift kit gets into contact with the CV joint. As the car moves, friction results in this CV joint heat-up.
As a result of this heat-up, the CV joint wears off faster. Not only this, the overheating can cause a sudden failure in your vehicle’s regular function.
Solution:
There’s actually no working method to prevent the CV joints from heating up. However, whenever the CV joints wear off, you can easily replace them with a new one. It can cost you around a hundred bucks once a year.
Problem 6: Risk of Toppling and Falling
Lifting the car with a lifting kit affects your center of gravity as well. The higher your center of gravity is, the more difficult it will be for you to stay stable. As a result of this, driving on muddy or uneven paths will be a highly uncomfortable experience.
The worst thing can happen if you take the vehicle to go rock crawling. In this scenario, the UTV can topple over the hilly terrain due to the problematic positioning of the center of gravity.
Solution:
If you want to take your vehicle into a muddy or puddly path, make sure to fasten your seatbelts. While it may sound ridiculous, having two seatbelts from either side of the seat can offer the extra protection you need.
But what if you want to climb hilly terrain? In this case, get massive tires instead of the long lift kits. While the huge tires will provide the height, they will not make the center of gravity so fragile.
Problem 7: Compromises The Warranty
As you probably know, performing any kind of modification voids the warranty. It means if you add lift kits to your Polaris Ranger, it counts as a modification and voids the warranty as well. As a result, you won’t get the free services that you were entitled to. In other words, you will have to pay big bucks if you want any kind of premium servicing for your vehicle.
Solution:
Some sellers offer a warranty even after having a lift kit on. But this is only permissible under special conditions.
You can also submit an application asking not to void your warranty after installing the lift kit. Depending on the Polaris outlet you are referring to, they may approve your request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest you can legally lift a truck?
The body of a car is usually allowed to lift three inches. However, the rest of the answer is not as simple. Vehicles under 4,500 GVWR can have a rear height of 29 inches. In addition, vehicles with up to 7,500 GVWR can lift the rear to up to 33 inches.
Is the Polaris Ranger lift kit worth it?
The answer depends on your needs. If your usual driving path includes muddy terrain, a lift kit can save you from many troubles and accidents. But a lift kit is a bad idea if you travel hilly tracks or on slopes.
Does a 2-inch lift kit make a difference?
Yes, a 2-inch lift kit will make a significant difference. This extra bit of lift will make it easier for the UTV to ride on rougher tracks easily. If a 2-inch lift kit is adjusted with bigger tires, the ground clearance improves drastically. So, yes, a 2-inch lift kit does make a difference.
Final Words
For some, the lift kit is a must item to go on the Polaris Ranger. The height it offers is necessary for driving on certain specific kinds of roads. But, Polaris Ranger lift kit problems are not ignorable. In fact, as you can see, some issues are too irritating. Fortunately, if you have read this entire article, you now know the right way to fix the issue. By simply following the solutions mentioned in this article, you will have no problem enjoying a lift kit on your vehicle while suffering none of its bad effects. But bear in mind you may have to make some small compromises.