New Polaris Ranger 900

[RollingsFarms]

I believe I read somewhere that Polaris changed their clutch design and it's supposedly way more reliable and belts are lasting much longer. I will say that the key to long belt life is using low range as much as possible.

 

[weathda]

I didn't get to do the test drives this weekend. Weather was not cooperative. Will have to reschedule.

Have been trying to keep an open mind on all. Even been researching the diesel Polaris and JD models and even Kubota RTV since we have a diesel supply at the property where I'll be riding most. I read where the earlier Polaris diesel models had trouble with transmission not wanting to allow gear changes. Read where they went to the same transmission and clutch as what the gas models have. Will most likely go with gas. Wish Polaris still offered the nanny key for limited power. Sounds like for 2015 they went to a safety feature tied to the seat belts. Will not go over 15 mph unless the belt is fastened. Can anyone confirm or deny?

 

[TnWV]

I didn't get to do the test drives this weekend. Weather was not cooperative. Will have to reschedule. Have been trying to keep an open mind on all. Even been researching the diesel Polaris and JD models and even Kubota RTV since we have a diesel supply at the property where I'll be riding most. I read where the earlier Polaris diesel models had trouble with transmission not wanting to allow gear changes. Read where they went to the same transmission and clutch as what the gas models have. Will most likely go with gas. Wish Polaris still offered the nanny key for limited power. Sounds like for 2015 they went to a safety feature tied to the seat belts. Will not go over 15 mph unless the belt is fastened. Can anyone confirm or deny?

On my 2015, if the driver seat belt is not buckled it will not go over 15. Not a great dilution to the nanny key since the rider, who is most likely new to operating the machine, would be missing the safety feature of the belt itself. If I'm just putting around or carry stuff around the property, I often just buckle the belt behind me, to make constant in and out easier.

 

[TO_Bud]

Weathda, I own the 2013 900XP Ranger. For the most part I really enjoy my machine. I combine northern Michigan trail riding with putzing around my 5 wooded acres at home doing various chores. Owned a 800 Ranger XP before this one, and there is no comparison between the two, the 900 is a clear winner in ride quality, noise and generated cab heat. Don't have any experience with the Viking however but have read they are quite noisy and vibrate. The belt slippage problem is from water entering the clutch housing from pillar mounted air intakes, both left and right. Right side is for the clutch, and water can enter from washing the machine or in heavy rain. Even though I know the intake is there I still seem to splash water that way when I'm washing it. Simple cure is to remove the drain plug and drain. The newer models have frogskin covers over the intakes to limit any water problems. If you want to read almost any opinion on the 900 log into http://www.prcforum.com/forum/154-ranger-xp-900-discussions They talk about all the pros and cons as well as lengthy discussion on pumping up hp. In my opinion the machine has more than enough hp as a stock machine. As far as passengers go I equate utvs to pole barns, as soon as you get either you wish you could more into it

 

[weathda]

Finally got around to a test drive this weekend on the XP 900. Was just what others had mentioned, very quiet. I was in the neighborhood of the Shoals mega-dealer and stopped in. Didn't intend to buy on Saturday, especially before trying out the Viking but they hooked me good. My wife was egging me on so that didn't help. Plus they had trailers which made everything pretty convenient. I got numbers and negotiated a deal where I thought it was as good as it was going to get and left. Came back about 15 minutes later and said if I could have the one out back with plastic still on the seats I'd take it. They said, whatever to make you happy. Signed the paper work and took the manual home with me. It was a pretty exciting Saturday. Was not prepared to pull it home, so I'll be going back on Tuesday to get it.

 

[weathda]

Wife and I both settled on the Black Pearl. It's a 2015. Got the top and a front windshield. Will also be getting a rear window too, but might go aftermarket on the rear.

Let's see if I can add a picture or two.

The trailers had just been delivered. That also helped in my decision. They had a fresh stock of 6x14 and 6x12s. I got a 6x12 for $1099.

 

[TnWV]

Congrats Weathda, I know you will enjoy it!! I almost got the black pearl, it was a tough decision, they all look so good.

Sounds like you did well and got a pretty good price on the trailer. I am planning on a new trailer this spring as my 5x8 just won't work. I used a friends 6x10 to haul it home and it took up most of that trailer. 6X12 is probably the right way to go.

I spent the day yesterday working on a trail yesterday that will eventually allow me to drive all the way around my property staying in the woods. There were a couple difficult spots and the Ranger handled them easily. Just a fun machine to operate and a great way to spend time with the family! Enjoy it!

 

[weathda]

Thanks TnWV. They do all look good. I'm about an hour away from Shoals. I had family over in that area and we traveled over this weekend to see them. Buying the trailer there will keep me from having to haul a trailer all the way over there. I'll be pulling it with my swagger wagon (2013 Sienna) cause that's the way I roll. lol! Should be interesting. It's got the tow package and tow rated at 3500 lbs. Hoping it will pull okay. I have a little work truck, but I'm more apt to trust the van with power and braking for that distance.

Trail cutting will be on my agenda as well. I'd like to cut a perimeter road around the property like you mentioned. Definitely, looking forward to this being a great way to spend time with the family.

This spring we have a few burn piles to rid. Hauling our accelerate and burn tools will be made much easier with this. Also have a few limbs to pull with it as well. I have lots of little jobs for it.

I've been reading in the manual and it says there is a 25 hour break-in period. The first 3 hour break-in is critical. I'll probably put around in it for the first little while. Did you guys do anything special?

 

[TnWV]

I just cruised around in it for a few hours, and didn't run it hard. Really didn't do anything special. I did make sure to do the 25 hour service right on time. The oil coming out was as clean looking as what went in. Oil filter is a bit of a pain as you have to remove a small guard and it's still tight. Not easy to get a good grip and twist. I don't like the location as it's impossible not to get oil on the engine and it's tough to get in there and clean it off.

I towed mine with my wife's Traverse. Not sure of the tow rating but I definitely knew it was there. Power wasn't a problem but really felt it when breaking. I'm sure you will be fine.

 

[weathda]

The finance guy was sure to remind me of the 25 hour oil change. Seems like a waste, but I'll do it. Better safe than sorry. They also told me that if I did oil changes and maintenance myself to be sure and keep the receipts.

Will be a little cold tomorrow, but I plan to put some run time on it when I get it back home. Hope I sleep tonight

 

[TnWV]

I didn't keep my receipt, but bought the kit at the dealer so hopefully there is record. I'll keep the next one. Since there is only a 6 month warranty and that has past for me, not sure it matters. At 75 hours you have to Chang all the fluids I believe. One nice feature is that you can set a reminder clock on the display and it lets you know when it's time for maintenance. You'll be surprised at how much of the cold that windshield will deflect. Night and day difference than without it. My guess is, the cold won't stop you too much!

 

[weathda]

Picked up the Ranger today. The new trailer pulled great. Had no problems pulling it in the van. Turned out to be a nice sunny, but still chilly day. You're right about the windshield, that thing is so nice to keep the cold out. I definitely saw the need for the back windshield. The dry dust and dead grass were coming right over the bed into the cab. I ordered an EMP back windshield tonight. I'm hoping that's the last of the money spent on this thing.

It didn't stay clean for long. We put about 2 hours on this afternoon on two different properties. I'm astounded at where this thing will go in turf mode. I can tell the aggressive tires really do a great job at finding traction. The only complaint I'd have so far is the way it lunges from a stop when applying the accelerator. Guess that's the belt catching. Seems to be normal from what I've read. Overall very happy with my decision to go with the Ranger. Love the quietness of the Prostar. Can't wait to do more riding this weekend.

 

[TnWV]

I was told that if putting a windshield on, a back glass was a necessity do to the dust. I know I like having both. Only down side is that a little more noise and heat are captured with them but still not much compared to others I've ridden.

Both of mine are EMP. Great experience ordering from them and feel like I got quality products. Getting the foam tape on is the hardest part of the back glass. It does want you to drill into the metal frame towards the middle. I decided I would not do this and just get some extra Velcro to add support there. The panel is very sturdy with the 4 corner bolts and the Velcro keeps it from rattling any at all.

Lunging hasn't been an issue for me. Once you get use to the gas pedal it goes away. I just chalked it up to not being use to the pedal.

Last of the money spent?? No way, you've got all kinds of stuff to buy for it!! One thing I found on Ebay that I am going to order is mud guards that go in front of the rear wheels, they will keep mud from slinging all the way up front. I believe they were about $65. Cleaning that area is a pain. I also want a winch, radio, bed mat, all kinds of stuff!

Enjoy it!

 

[weathda]

Yes, be glad you got the back windshield...it's needed when things are dry. Hoping I get the windshield before my weekend ride. The EMP online coupon saved me enough to upgrade to 2 day shipping. Thanks for the warning on the foam and the tip on the velco strap.

The lunging isn't terrible, it just makes loading on the trailer alittle more exciting. I'll try to feather it a little more. I only used Low range while riding and probably will while breaking it in. I'm trying to take it easy, but I had to get in the throttle a couple of times. Wow! It'll take the hat off your head if you're not careful.

You're going to have to stop with these accessory ideas. You're gonna cause me to spend too much. The mats sound like a great idea.

 

[TnWV]

I used the coupon as well but didn't upgrade shipping. EMP is in Cleveland and they came in less than two days with regular shipping. Seems to be a good company.

I pulled out on the road one day just to open it up, ended up losing a pair of old sunglasses that were on too of my head. Definitely has some go out of the hole. Kids love it when I pinch the gas around the farm. The face on my one year old is priceless! My 4 year old prefers the woods, which will be much better this summer with the windshield. The spider webs were brutal without it.

Accessories are a killer, that's why I don't have many and will just pick up a few here and there. Good thing is you don't need any of them to enjoy the machine. Heck I put over 250 miles on it before I got the windshields.

 

[PoorPlowboy]

The Duraclutch upgrade is an expensive but very worthy investment on any Polaris. It is an absolute requirement on the Diesel models but is worth its cost on any model. Smooth engagement, easy gear shifts, and very long belt life will be gained. I was ready to throw a match on my diesel Ranger and burn it down before I learned of this clutch while reading for hours of other owner's woes.

 

[TnWV]

The Duraclutch upgrade is an expensive but very worthy investment on any Polaris. It is an absolute requirement on the Diesel models but is worth its cost on any model. Smooth engagement, easy gear shifts, and very long belt life will be gained. I was ready to throw a match on my diesel Ranger and burn it down before I learned of this clutch while reading for hours of other owner's woes.

A clutch upgrade and bigger tires are on my "eventually" list. Probably won't touch any of that until I at least wear out the factory tires, which could take a while. If only the stuff didn't cost so much!

 

[weathda]

Funny you mention the Duraclutch. Lastnight, I was just watching the video of the Duraclutch comparison to the stock clutch. Pretty impressive. Makes me wonder why Polaris doesn't use that as OEM. I had also read about the "Diesel Nightmare" thread on one of the Ranger forums. Sounds like the DC saves the day. Wish it weren't so expensive. Maybe one day I'll upgrade. I don't think I mentioned it, but the dealer took $100 off the 4 year warranty so I bought it. When I went in finance office, the guy asked if I knew about the 2 year Polaris warranty that Polaris was currently giving away. I said, "no, I was only aware of the 6 month warranty". He says, "I have good news for you." I get the first 2 years from Polaris and after that expires, my 4 year RPS warranty will kick in. It's $50 deductible for the first 2 years and no deductible for the next 4. So I actually wound up with a 6 year warranty. Hopefully, that will cover me for any problems for awhile, but that may keep me from any clutch upgrades?? Not sure how they would handle that.

 

[TnWV]

Good deal on your warranty. The free 2 years didn't come along until a month or do after I got mine. I planned on calling and seeing if I could get in on it since I has just purchased it, but never did. Haven't really heard of many people having problems with them, but at least you are well covered.

I did decide to put full coverage insurance on mine immediately. Too much theft going on not to. I was afraid of the cost, but called my agent and ended up with full coverage with $500 deductible for just over $17/month. Well worth it to me. I keep the thing locked up tight but if someone wants it bad enough they'll get it.

 

[weathda]

Sounds like you got a great deal on insurance. I'll be towing mine quite a bit and figured full coverage insurance would be wise. I called the night before pick-up and got comprehensive and collision with $500 deductible for $20/month. I've got mine locked up too, but you never know these days.