Polaris Ranger Differential Lock Problems: 4 Solutions

Functional differential is vital in ATVs as you drive them on uneven roads. If you notice any problem with the differential lock, it needs to be taken care of immediately.

So, what are the common Polaris Ranger differential lock problems?

Some common Polaris Ranger differential problems include the differential not engaging or keeps locking up, hearing an unusual noise, and the rear differential not unlocking. The possible solutions to these problems are repairing the switch box, armature plate, or Sprague and setting the parking brake off.

There are more. Identifying the exact Polaris lock problem is essential before you apply any solution. This article will walk you through this. Keep reading.

Polaris Ranger Front Differential Problems

Different differential lock problems will show different symptoms. You must identify those symptoms first. The following table will give you a glance at various differential lock problems.

No.	Problem	Symptom	Solution
1	Differential Not Engaging	Wheel does not spin.	Tighten the switch box or replace the armature plate/Sprague.
2	Unusual Noise	Cracking, whining, or whirring from the wheel while driving.	Replace the pinion bearing.
3	Rear Differential Won’t Unlock	Rear wheels keep spinning on turf.	Release the parking brake.
4	Front Differential Locking Up	Front wheels remain engaged and won’t spin.	After reversing, allow rear wheels time to gain traction.

Source: eBay

Problem 1: Polaris Ranger Differential Not Engaging

Symptom: When you try to drive your ATV, you will notice the rear wheels are spinning, but the front wheels are not, which means the front differential is not engaging.

And if you notice, the front wheels are spinning, but the rear wheels are not, which means the rear differential is not engaging.

Reason: This problem can occur for three reasons.

• The differential switch is not appropriately sealed, and the differential is not getting enough voltage.
• Broken armature plate
• Broken Sprague

Solution: First, check whether the 4×4 switchboard is sealed correctly or not. If you notice any gaps around the switch box, the switch needs to be sealed properly so that the differential gets enough voltage.

Tighten the screws properly to fill up the switch box gaps.

If the switch box is fine, the problem is in either a broken armature plate or a broken Sprague. Here’s how you fix this problem:

1. Remove the differential from your ATV.
2. There will be around 7-8 bolts in the differential, depending on your Polaris Ranger model. Unscrew those and open up the differential cover.
3. You will notice the torsion spring retainer and the armature plate under that.
4. Inspect if the armature plate is damaged or corroded. If it is, replace it. If the plate is okay, go to the next step.
5. After keeping the spring retainer and the armature plate aside, note how the torsion spring is wrapped. You must reassemble it the same way.
6. After removing the spring, take out the output hub, then remove the Sprague carrier. It may be cracked, corroded, or worn out.
7. Gently lift the Sprague and set it aside. Handle the springs and rollers carefully as they are loose.
8. Replace with a new Sprague carrier set.
9. Reassemble everything in order.

That’s the whole process. Give your differential a check, and it should be engaged properly.

Problem 2: Polaris Ranger Front Differential Noise

Symptom: You will hear whining, humming, howling, or whirring noises from the front differential.

Reason: The noise usually comes from a worn-out or broken pinion bearing in the differential. It could also come from the wheel bearing. To identify the exact source:

1. Steer the front wheel right and left.
2. If the noise intensity changes, the problem is in the wheel bearing. If not, it’s in the differential bearing.

Solution: Replace the differential pinion bearing. Consult your dealer for replacement.

Problem 3: Rear Differential Won’t Unlock

Symptom: When you take the ATV in turf mode, both back tires spin.

Reason: Rear differential needs an electrical signal to unlock. It can’t get the signal while the parking brake or emergency brake is set.

Solution: Check whether the parking brake is on. If it is, disengage it by pushing the lever down.

Problem 4: Polaris Ranger Front Diff Locking Up

Symptom: You notice the rear wheels of your ATV are trying to run at a reasonable speed, but the front wheels seem to be locking up even after being engaged.

Reason: This happens when driving in reverse on a slippery road, and the rear wheels slip. If you don’t allow time for the rear wheels to recover before pulling forward, the front wheels lock.

Solution: When driving on slippery or muddy roads, after reversing, give a few seconds before pulling forward so the rear wheels regain traction.

FAQs

How Do I Disable Diff Lock?

You will find a control lever or differential switch near the wheel. There are lock and unlock signs. Flip the lever to the “unlock” position, and momentarily release the accelerator pedal to disengage the slide clutch.

When Should I Lock My Differential?

Lock your differential when driving your ATV on unfavorable terrain such as muddy, snowy, or gravel roads. These surfaces require extra traction.

When Should I Unlock My Differential?

Unlock your differential on smooth or slippery terrain. Your ATV needs extra friction on such roads, and an engaged differential provides this friction.

Conclusion

Here go all the common Polaris Ranger differential lock problems. This article should help you with everything you need. But if you’re still unsure about your differential, consult your ATV dealer.

That’s all for now. Best of luck with your ATV, and have a great day.