Polaris RANGER 800 - Manual

4 INTRODUCTION Failure to follow the warnings contained in this manual can result in severe injury or death. A POLARIS RANGER is not a toy and can be hazardous to operate. This vehicle handles differently than other vehicles, such as motorcycles and cars. A collision or rollover can occur quickly, e...

5 INTRODUCTION Vehicle Identification Numbers Record your vehicle's identification numbers and key number in the spaces provided. Remove the spare key and store it in a safe place. An ignition key can be duplicated only by ordering a POLARIS key blank (using your key number) and mating it with one o...

6 SAFETY Safety Labels and Locations Warning labels have been placed on the vehicle for your protection. Read and follow the instructions of the labels on the vehicle carefully. If any of the labels depicted in this manual differ from the labels on your vehicle, always read and follow the instructio...

7 SAFETY Safety Labels and Locations Discretionary Warning WARNING Improper vehicle use can result in Severe Injury or Death. NEVER Operate: • At speeds too fast for your skills or the conditions.• After or while using Alcohol or Drugs.• On hills steeper than 15 degrees 15°. • On public roads, a col...

9 SAFETY Safe Riding Gear Always wear appropriate clothing when riding a POLARIS vehicle. Wear protective clothing for comfort and to reduce the chance of injury. Helmet Wearing a helmet can prevent a severe head injury. Whenever riding this POLARIS vehicle, always wear a helmet that meets or exceed...

10 SAFETY Operator Safety Serious injury or death can result if you do not follow these instructions and procedures, which are outlined in further detail within your owner's manual. • Read this manual and all labels carefully. Follow the operating procedures described.• Never allow anyone under age ...

11 SAFETY Operator Safety • Always follow proper procedures for climbing hills as described in this manual. Check the terrain carefully before attempting to climb a hill. Never climb hills with excessively slip-pery or loose surfaces. Never open the throttle suddenly or make sudden gear changes. Nev...

12 SAFETY Operator Safety Equipment Modifications We strongly recommend that consumers do not install on a POLARIS RANGER any equip- ment that may increase the speed or power of the vehicle, or make any other modifications to the vehicle for these purposes. Any modifications to the original equipmen...

16 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Component Locations Your vehicle is equipped with cab nets on both sides of the vehicle. Cab nets must be used by both operator and passengers at all times. Any illustrations without cab nets are only to allow component identification. Always use the cab nets. Not all models...

17 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Console Auxiliary Outlets The 12-volt receptacles have spade connections on the back that may be used to power an auxiliary light or other optional accessories or lights. The connections are behind the console, under the dash. On CREW models, an additional receptacle is loca...

18 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Switches Ignition Switch The ignition switch is a three-position, key-operated switch. The key can be removed from the switch when it is in the OFF position. Mode Button The MODE button is located on the instrument cluster. Use the MODE button to toggle through mode options ...

19 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Trailer Hitch Bracket This vehicle is equipped with a receiver hitch bracket for a trailer hitch. To avoid injury and property damage, always heed the warnings and towing capacities outlined on pages 37-38. Brake Pedal Depress the brake pedal to slow or stop the vehicle. App...

20 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Park Brake Lever To help prevent the vehicle from rolling, engage the park brake when parking the vehicle. When the park brake is fully engaged, “BRAKE” appears in the rider information display. Engine speed is limited to 1300 RPM in all gears, except neutral. If throttle is...

21 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Cab Nets Riding in this vehicle without using the cab nets increases the risk of serious injury or death in the event of an accident or overturn. Cab nets must be used by both operator and passen- gers at all times. Make sure all latches are secure before operating the vehic...

22 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Seat Removal Pull up on the front of the seat and slide it toward the front of the vehicle. Install the seat by sliding the tabs into the rear of the seat base. Push down firmly on the front of the seat until the pins are fully seated into the grommets. Seat Belts This POLAR...

23 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) The Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) on this vehicle meets OSHA 1928.53 rollover performance requirements. Always have your authorized POLARIS dealer thoroughly inspect the ROPS if it ever becomes damaged in any way. No device can ass...

24 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster High water pressure may damage components. Wash the vehicle by hand or with a garden hose using mild soap. Do not use alcohol to clean the instrument cluster. Do not allow insect sprays to contact the lens. Speedometer The speedometer displays vehicle spee...

25 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center The rider information center is located in the instrument cluster. All segments will light up for one sec-ond at start-up. If the instrument cluster fails to illuminate, a battery over-voltage may have occurred and the instrument c...

26 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center Use the MODE button to toggle through the information area options. Display Units (Standard/Metric) The display can be changed to display either standard or metric units of measurement. Tip: To exit the set-up mode at any time, wai...

27 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center Odometer Mode The odometer records and displays the distance traveled by the vehicle. Trip Meter Mode The trip meter records the distance traveled by the vehicle if reset before each trip. To reset, select the trip meter mode. Pres...

28 FEATURES AND CONTROLS Instrument Cluster Rider Information Center Engine Error Codes The error screen displays only when the CHECK ENGINE light is on or when it goes on and off during one ignition cycle. Error codes are not stored. When the key is turned OFF, the code and message is lost, but wil...

29 OPERATION Failure to operate the vehicle properly can result in a collision, loss of control, accident or overturn, which may result in serious injury or death. Read and understand all warnings outlined in the safety section of this manual. Break-In Period The break-in period for your new RANGER ...

30 OPERATION Pre-Ride Inspection Failure to inspect and verify that the vehicle is in safe operating condition before operating increases the risk of an accident. Always inspect the vehicle before each use to make sure it's in safe operating condition. Item Remarks Page Brake system/pedal travel Ens...

31 OPERATION Starting the Engine 1. Always start the engine outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. 2. Sit in the driver's seat and fasten the seat belt. Secure the cab nets. 3. Apply the brakes. Engage the park brake. 4. Shift the transmission to neutral. 5. Do not press the throttle pedal while sta...

32 OPERATION Driving Procedure 1. Wear a helmet, eye protection, gloves, long-sleeve shirt, long pants and over-the-ankle boots. 2. Perform the pre-ride inspection. See page 30. 3. Sit in the driver's seat and fasten the seat belt. 4. Always use the cab nets while rid- ing in this vehicle. 5. Start ...

33 OPERATION Driving on Slippery Surfaces Skidding or sliding can cause loss of control or overturn (if tires regain traction unexpectedly). When operating on slippery surfaces such as ice or loose gravel, reduce speed and use extra caution to reduce the chance of skidding or sliding out of control....

34 OPERATION Driving Uphill Whenever traveling uphill, follow these precautions: 1. Always travel straight uphill.2. Avoid steep hills (15° maximum).3. Keep both feet on the floor.4. Always check the terrain carefully before ascending any hill. 5. Never climb hills with excessively slippery or loose...

35 OPERATION Driving Through Water Your POLARIS RANGER can operate through water up to a maximum recommended depth equal to the floorboards. NOTICE: Immersion can result in major damage if the vehicle isn't serviced correctly and promptly. After immersion, always take the vehicle to your dealer serv...

36 OPERATION Driving in Reverse Follow these precautions when operating in reverse: 1. Always check for obstacles or people behind the vehicle. Always inspect left and right fields of vision before backing. 2. Always avoid backing downhill.3. Back slowly.4. Apply the brakes lightly for stopping. 5. ...

37 OPERATION Hauling Cargo Hauling cargo improperly can alter vehicle handling and may cause loss of control or brake instability, which can result in serious injury or death. Always follow these precautions when hauling cargo: Never exceed the maximum weight capacity of the vehicle. When determinin...

38 OPERATION Towing Loads Towing improperly can alter vehicle handling and may cause loss of control or brake insta-bility. Always follow these precautions when towing: 1. Never load more than 150 lbs. (68.1 kg) tongue weight on the towing bracket. 2. Do not operate the vehicle faster than 10 MPH (1...

39 OPERATION Dumping the Cargo Box 1. Select a level site to dump the cargo box. Do not attempt to dump or unload the vehicle while parked on an incline. 2. Apply the brakes. Place the transmission in gear. Engage the park brake. 3. Dismount the vehicle. 4. Ensure that the cargo is positioned evenly...

40 OPERATION All Wheel Drive (AWD) Engaging AWD Press the top of the switch to engage All Wheel Drive (AWD). The 4X4 indicator illuminates in the rider information center to indicate that the vehicle is in AWD. See page 25. When the AWD switch is on, the front wheels will automatically engage any ti...

41 OPERATION All Wheel Drive (AWD) Locking the Differential NOTICE: Damage to the differential can occur if it is engaged while the vehicle is traveling at high speeds or while the rear wheels are spinning. Slow the vehicle to nearly stopped before engaging the differential. Locking the differential...

42 EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS Noise Emission Control System Do not modify the engine, intake or exhaust components, as doing so may affect compliance with U.S.A. EPA noise control requirements (40 CFR 205) and local noise level require-ments. Operation on Public Lands in the U.S.A. Your POLARIS vehicl...

43 MAINTENANCE Periodic Maintenance Chart Careful periodic maintenance will help keep your vehicle in the safest, most reliable condi-tion. Inspection, adjustment and lubrication of important components are explained in the periodic maintenance chart. Inspect, clean, lubricate, adjust and replace pa...

46 MAINTENANCE Lubrication Recommendations Check and lubricate all components at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 43, or more often under severe use, such as wet or dusty conditions. Items not listed in the chart should be lubricated at the general lubricati...

47 MAINTENANCE Engine Intake Restrictor Plate Some RANGER 800 models are equipped with an intake restrictor plate in order to meet vehicle class regulations. This plate MUST NOT be removed for any reason. Removal of the intake restrictor plate will void the warranty on the vehicle. Engine Oil Always...

48 MAINTENANCE Engine Oil Oil and Filter Change Always change the oil and filter at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 43. Always change the oil filter whenever changing oil. 1. Position the vehicle on a level surface. 2. Run the engine for two to three minute...

49 MAINTENANCE Gearcases Gearcase Specification Chart RANGER 4X4 Gearcase Specifications Gearcase Lubricant Capacity Fill Plug(s) Torque Drain Plug Torque Main Gearcase (Transmission) AGL PLUS Transmission Fluid 34 oz. (1000 ml) 12 ft. lbs. (16.3 Nm) 12 ft. lbs. (16.3 Nm) Front Gearcase Demand Drive...

50 MAINTENANCE Gearcases Transmission (Main Gearcase) (4X4/CREW) Always check and change the transmission oil at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Main-tenance Chart beginning on page 43. Refer to the Gearcase Specifications Chart on page 49 for recommended lubricants, capacities and torque spe...

51 MAINTENANCE Gearcases Transmission (Main Gearcase) (6X6) Always check and change the transmission oil at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Main-tenance Chart beginning on page 43. Maintain the oil level even with the bottom of the fill plug hole. Refer to the Gearcase Specifications Chart on...

52 MAINTENANCE Gearcases Front Gearcase Always check and change the front gearcase oil at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 43. Maintain the oil level even with the bottom thread of the fill plug hole. Refer to the Gearcase Specifications Chart on page 49 for...

55 MAINTENANCE Spark Plugs Spark Plug Recommendations Refer to the specifications section beginning on page 78 for the recommended spark plug type for your vehicle. Always torque spark plugs to specification. NOTICE: Using non-recommended spark plugs can result in serious engine damage. Always use P...

56 MAINTENANCE Cooling System The engine coolant level is controlled or maintained by the recovery system. The recovery system components are the overflow bottle, radiator filler neck, radiator pressure cap and connecting hose. As coolant operating temperature increases, the expanding (heated) exces...

57 MAINTENANCE Cooling System Overflow Bottle Coolant Level Always check and change the coolant at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 43. Maintain the coolant level between the minimum and maximum marks on the bottle (when the fluid is cool). The overflow bott...

58 MAINTENANCE POLARIS Variable Transmission (PVT) System Failure to comply with the instructions in this warning can result in severe injury or death. Do not modify any component of the PVT system. Doing so may reduce its strength so that a failure may occur at a high speed. The PVT system has been...

59 MAINTENANCE POLARIS Variable Transmission (PVT) System Belt Replacement/Debris Removal If a belt fails, always clean any debris from the duct and from the clutch and engine compartments when replacing the belt. WARNING! Failure to remove ALL debris when replacing the belt could result in vehicle ...

60 MAINTENANCE Vehicle Immersion NOTICE: If your vehicle becomes immersed, major engine damage can result if the machine is not thoroughly inspected. Take the vehicle to your dealer before starting the engine. If it's impossible to take your RANGER to a dealer before starting it, follow the steps ou...

61 MAINTENANCE Spark Arrester Failure to heed the following warnings while servicing the spark arrester could result in serious injury or death. • Do not perform service on the spark arrester while the system is hot. Exhaust system temperatures can reach 1000° F. Allow components to cool sufficientl...

62 MAINTENANCE Throttle System Failure to check or maintain proper operation of the throttle system can result in an accident and lead to serious injury or death if the throttle pedal sticks during operation. Always check the pedal for free movement and return before starting the engine and occasion...

63 MAINTENANCE Brakes The front and rear brakes are hydraulic disc type brakes activated by the brake pedal. See page 19. Brake Fluid Inspect the brake system routinely. Inspect the level of the brake fluid before each operation. WARNING! After opening a bottle of brake fluid, always discard any unu...

64 MAINTENANCE Brakes Park Brake Adjustment Inspect and adjust park brake cable tension after the first 25 hours of operation and every 100 hours thereafter to ensure proper cable tension. Loss of tension in the park brake cable may cause “BRAKE” to display in the rider information center, along wit...

65 MAINTENANCE Tires Operating your vehicle with worn tires, improperly inflated tires, non-standard tires or improperly installed tires will affect vehicle handling and could cause an accident resulting in serious injury or death. Always follow all tire maintenance procedures as outlined in this ma...

66 MAINTENANCE Tires Wheel Removal 1. Apply the brakes. Engage the park brake. 2. Stop the engine. Place the transmission in gear. 3. Loosen the wheel nuts slightly. 4. Elevate the side of the vehicle by placing a suitable stand under the frame. 5. Remove the wheel nuts and washers. Remove the wheel...

67 MAINTENANCE Lights Poor lighting can result in reduced visibility when driving. Headlight and taillight lenses become dirty during normal operation. Clean lights frequently and replace burned out lamps promptly. Always make sure lights are adjusted properly for best visibility. When servicing a h...

68 MAINTENANCE Lights Headlight Beam Adjustment 1. Place the vehicle on a level surface with the headlight approximately 25 ft. (7.6 m) from a wall. 2. Place the transmission in gear. Engage the park brake. 3. Measure the distance from the floor to the center of the headlight and make a mark on the ...

69 MAINTENANCE Fuses If the engine stops or will not start, or if you experience other electrical failures, a fuse may need replacement. Locate and correct any short circuits that may have caused the blown fuse, then replace the fuse. Spare fuses are provided in the fuse box. The power steering fuse...

70 MAINTENANCE Battery Battery electrolyte is poisonous. It contains sulfuric acid. Serious burns can result from contact with skin, eyes or clothing. Antidote: External : Flush with water. Internal : Drink large quantities of water or milk. Follow with milk of magnesia, beaten egg, or vegetable oil...

71 MAINTENANCE Battery Battery Removal Improperly connecting or disconnecting battery cables can result in an explosion and cause serious injury or death. When removing the battery, always disconnect the negative (black) cable first. When reinstalling the battery, always connect the negative (black)...

72 MAINTENANCE Battery Battery Installation Using a new battery that has not been fully charged can damage the battery and result in a shorter life. It can also hinder vehicle performance. Follow the battery charging instructions on page 73 before installing the battery. 1. Ensure that the battery i...

73 MAINTENANCE Battery Battery Charging (Conventional Battery) 1. Remove the battery from the vehicle to prevent damage from leaking or spilled electro- lyte during charging. See page 71. 2. Charge the battery with a charging output no larger than 1/10 of the battery’s amp/hr rat- ing. Charge as nee...

74 MAINTENANCE Cleaning and Storage Washing the Vehicle Keeping your POLARIS vehicle clean will not only improve its appearance but it can also extend the life of various components. NOTICE: High water pressure may damage components. POLARIS recommends washing the vehicle by hand or with a garden ho...

75 MAINTENANCE Cleaning and Storage Storage Tips NOTICE: Starting the engine during the storage period will disturb the protective film created by fogging and damage could occur. Never start the engine during the storage period. Clean the Exterior Make any necessary repairs and clean the vehicle as ...

76 MAINTENANCE Cleaning and Storage Storage Tips Inspect and Lubricate Inspect all cables and lubricate all areas of the vehicle as recommended in the Periodic Main-tenance Chart beginning on page 43. Battery Maintenance See page 72 for storage and charging procedures. Fluid Levels Inspect the fluid...

77 MAINTENANCE Removal from Storage 1. Check the battery electrolyte level and charge the battery if necessary. Install it in the vehicle. Make sure the battery vent hose is routed properly and that it's not pinched or restricted in any way. 2. Make sure the spark plug is tight. 3. Fill the fuel tan...

78 SPECIFICATIONS RANGER 4X4 Maximum Weight Capacity 1500 lbs. (681 kg) (including operator, passenger, cargo, accessories)1100 lbs. (499 kg) (Models sold in California) Dry Weight 1237 lbs. (561 kg) Fuel Capacity 8.8 gal. (33.3 l) Engine Oil Capacity 1.9 qts. (1.8 l) Coolant Capacity 3.25 qts. (3 l...

79 SPECIFICATIONS Clutching See your POLARIS dealer for clutching specifications. RANGER 4X4 Driving System Type PVT, 4-wheel independent shaft, lockable differential Shift Type Single Lever (H/L/N/R) Gear Reduction - Low 7.70:1 Gear Reduction - Reverse 7.00:1 Gear Reduction - High 3.6:1 Drive Ratio...

82 SPECIFICATIONS RANGER CREW Maximum Weight Capacity 1750 lbs. (795 kg) (includes weight of operator, passengers, cargo, acces-sories) Dry Weight 1495 lbs. (678 kg) Fuel Capacity 8.8 gal. (33.3 l) Engine Oil Capacity 2 qts. (1.9 l) Coolant Capacity 1.6 gal. (6 l) Towing Capacity 2000 lbs. (907 kg) ...

84 POLARIS PRODUCTS Part Number Description Engine Lubricant 2870791 Fogging Oil (12 oz./355 ml Aerosol) 2876244 PS-4 PLUS Performance Synthetic 2W-50 4-Cycle Oil (qt./.95 l) 2876245 PS-4 PLUS Performance Synthetic 2W-50 4-Cycle Oil (gal./3.8 l) Gearcase / Transmission Lubricants 2878068 AGL PLUS Tr...

85 TROUBLESHOOTING Drive Belt Wear/Burn Possible Cause Solution Driving onto a pickup or tall trailer in high range Use low range during loading. Starting out going up a steep incline Use low range. See warnings on page 34. Driving at low RPM or ground speed (3-7 MPH) Drive at a higher speed or use ...

86 TROUBLESHOOTING Park Brake Engine Limiting Feature Fails to Disengage Engine Doesn't Turn Over Engine Turns Over, Fails to Start Engine Backfires Engine Pings or Knocks Possible Cause Solution Park brake is not completely disengaged Ensure lever is in forward-most position Park brake connector ma...

87 TROUBLESHOOTING Engine Runs Irregularly, Stalls or Misfires Engine Stops or Loses Power Possible Cause Solution Fouled or defective spark plugs Inspect, clean and/or replace spark plugs Worn or defective spark plug wires See your dealer Incorrect spark plug gap or heat range Set gap to specs or r...

88 WARRANTY LIMITED WARRANTY POLARIS Sales Inc., 2100 Highway 55, Medina, MN 55340, gives a SIX MONTH LIMITED WARRANTY on all components of the POLARIS RANGER against defects in material or workmanship. POLARIS also gives a one year limited warranty on the final drive chain (if equipped) for failure...

89 WARRANTY LIMITATIONS OF WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES This warranty also excludes failures resulting from improper lubrication; improper engine timing; improper fuel; surface imperfections caused by external stress, heat, cold or contamination; operator error or abuse; improper component alignment, ten...

90 WARRANTY SPARK ARRESTER POLARIS warrants that the spark arrester in this vehicle will meet the efficiency requirements of USFS standard 5100-1c for at least 1000 hours when subjected to normal use and when maintenance and installation are in accor-dance with POLARIS recommendations. Exported Vehi...

93 MAINTENANCE LOG Use the following chart to record periodic maintenance. DATE MILES (KM) OR HOURS TECHNICIAN SERVICE PERFORMED / COMMENTS

94 INDEX A Accessory Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60Air Filter Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 All Wheel Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-41 Disenga...