The Polaris Ranger is a utility terrain vehicle that offers high-performance levels, hauling ability, and versatility. Making a Polaris Ranger look and run like a dream is not overly challenging with the right parts and upgrades. Learning about the options is only the beginning. Polaris Ranger modifications deepen an owner’s excitement about these workhorse vehicles.
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A Brief History
The first generation of Polaris Ranger vehicles were sold as 6X6 vehicles to keep with the standards of off-road classification. The Polaris Ranger was born in 1999, and there are now over 63 models, with those numbers climbing yearly. With 2,500 pounds of towing capacity, these UTVs offer powerful transportation.
How to Make for a Smoother Polaris Ranger Ride
When talking to some Polaris owners, they will argue there is no way to make these vehicles ride ultra smoothly, but this is incorrect. Polaris Ranger products can transform the way your UTV handles the road. The tips below will make for a smoother ride and greater enjoyment.
Tire-Related Aspects That Can Make Polaris Rangers Bumpy
There are a few tire-related issues that can cut down on the smoothness of the ride. Tire pressure is especially essential. Having the tires filled to the correct pressure can stop some of the uncomfortable roughness, depending on the terrain. Some owners reduce their PSI to nine pounds, but going down to five gives an even smoother ride. Polaris Ranger owners find lower tire pressure gives them better traction.
Tire size is also integral for the smoothness of the ride. Some people run huge mud tires on their Polaris Rangers, making them drive like a tractor. Owners wanting smoother rides should opt for 26-inch tires. These will ride like a dream on mud and rocks.
Improve the Polaris Ranger Suspension for Greater Smoothness
The suspension system installed in a Polaris Ranger goes a long way toward improving its operation. Below are some of the key suspension parts and how they can transform the way Polaris Rangers perform.
Control Arms
Control arms are integral to the control level of any UTV. Control arms can last up to 100,000 miles on normal terrain but will go out faster off-road. Ranger boxed front forward control arms are ideal for keeping Polaris Rangers riding smoothly. These come with OEM bushings for improved smoothness and less vibration.
Shocks
Owners running a lift can stand to go a little softer on their shocks. Softer shock rates allow springs to move much faster, while stiffer shocks slow spring action and can make the ride seem more clunky. Get the best shocks within the budget.
Other Options to Improve Smoothness
Outside of the tires and suspension, there are a couple of other options for improving the smoothness of Polaris Ranger vehicles. Research carefully and purchase from a reputable dealer for the best results.
Wheel Spacers
Polaris Ranger owners often think little of their wheel spacers and may not realize how they impact smoothness. UTV wheels spaced farther out will offer much more stability in a ride. Installing new wheel spacers properly can give new life to a ride and take away the jerkiness. Have professionals install the new wheel spacers to ensure the steering geometry is not negatively affected. A spacer lift kit is ideal for giving owners everything they need to space the wheels further apart for a steadier ride.
Bracket Lifts
Another often-forgotten aspect is the bracket lifts. If owners only install bracket lifts and make no changes to the suspension or shocks, their ride will be rough because of changes to the steering geometry. With arched A-arms, owners can provide lift without changing the geometry of the Polaris Ranger’s steering. Portals and chassis stiffeners are pricey, but they offer the ultimate advance in smoothness and stability.
Top Ten Polaris Ranger Accessories
Polaris Ranger owners have access to many accessories that can improve the performance and look of their rides. The following are some of the most popular upgrades.
- Two or three-inch lift kits offer many benefits, including affordability, greater ground clearance, and better tire clearance. These kits can fully transform a Polaris Ranger.
- After-market bushings replace stock bushings and bring a much tougher material so they are less likely to wear out and cause damage to the A-arms.
- High-clearance offset arms do not come as close to the ground as stock arms. They do not lift the Polaris Ranger, but give room for larger tires, up to 33 inches.
- Wiring harnesses allow owners to install LED light bars, giving their Polaris Ranger a more distinguished style and better illumination while riding at night.
- Roof replacements stylize the ride and give it greater durability. There is a full range of roof replacement options, including the Ranger Crew Level 4 Audio Roof.
- Most Polaris Ranger owners want to add a winch. It is essential to get the right winch mount that matches the Polaris Ranger model. Winch kits include everything owners need.
- Replacing the stock doors with aluminum full and half door options is essential. These doors give owners better protection against rocks, mud, and other debris on the trail.
There are many options available to produce beautiful results for any Polaris Ranger. Although some can be more expensive, there are affordable options. Many Polaris Rangers slowly build their rides until they get them to perfection.
Purchase From the Best Dealer
Selecting the right products for your Polaris Ranger is just as essential as choosing the right dealer. Not all dealers are created equal. With upgrades, Polaris Rangers ride smoother and offer more stability and fun. Improving your Polaris Ranger ensures it will become a better vehicle, and you will get the most out of it for work and recreation.
Polaris Rangers are the workhorses of UTVs. Upgrades are easy to assemble, but owners should always consult a professional technician if they are unsure of the installation process.
Upgrading a Polaris Ranger takes time, money, and dedication, but it is worth the effort. With a little work, the Polaris Ranger becomes even more of a masterpiece.
