4 Polaris Ranger Rear Differential Problems – Fixings are Included
The most common problems with the Polaris Ranger series are loud noise in the back diff and seal leakage, which results in oil outflow. Without that, you may experience a locked differential in a particular wheel mode. Another issue is that the diff bearing gets stuck inside the drive shaft.
If you’re suspecting any similar issues, you’re not the only one. Forums have a good number of threads related to Polaris Ranger rear differential problems. But many people figured out the fixes, which you’ll learn from here.
In this article, you’ll find the easiest way to identify and resolve these issues. Let’s head into the deep discussion.
Polaris Differential Problems and Fixes At a Glance
| No. | Polaris Ranger Rear Differential Problems | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Loud Crunching Noise | Repair the broken parts |
| 2 | Rear Differential’s Bearing is Stuck in the Hub | Replace the rear drive shaft |
| 3 | Rear Differential Seal Leakage | Follow precautions and get a replacement |
| 4 | Polaris Ranger Differential Lock Problems | Check the switch and E-brake |
The below 4 problems are pretty frequent in different Ranger series. Check out the causes and solutions one by one.
Problem 1: Loud Crunching Noise
Undoubtedly, these American Rangers are built to tackle heavy lifting (more than 1200 lbs.). However, some units are seemed to make disturbing noises when lifting objects like boats or trailers.
The problem mainly occurs when your rear differential case is broken. Also, broken gears can be a reason behind this issue.
I’ve seen many Polaris Ranger owners complain about this issue in their forum. But according to their engineers, it’s not common in 2007 and 2008 models.
The most probable reason is that your differential’s screw came loose and somehow entered the ring gear contact patch. It’s possible these screws sometimes made their way into the lower housing area.
Whatever the occurrence is, it happens mainly because of bad weather or ground conditions.
Solution: Repair the Broken Parts
When it comes to fixing this issue, you can always repair the broken part. But if the driver-side lower housing is affected, you must replace it.
The worst part is that these are quite expensive. So, I suggest finding a used unit in the secondary market.
Problem 2: Rear Differential’s Bearing is Stuck in the Hub
After years of use, you may need to replace the bearings that are located inside the differential hub. It’s part of the general maintenance of this UTV.
But when trying to pull this shaft apart, sometimes it gets frozen to the hub. Even if you eject the castle nut or washers and remove all arms, it won’t come out.
Some people try to pull out the whole drive shaft unit to fix this problem. However, typically, they end up with the same result.
It happens when the inner part of the shaft damages the ring. And these kinds of consequences are the result of harsh driving habits.
Solution: Replace the Rear Drive Shaft
Regarding bearing sticking issues, there is not much you can expect from DIY repair. Typical rebuilt kit prices start from $999 and go up to $2,500.
When it comes to repairing, your luck ultimately depends on the condition of the broken ring and the drive shaft. For minor repairing, a mechanic might ask you for $200. Besides, there is no guarantee regarding how long this repair will survive.
On the other hand, you can buy a whole new unit of drive shaft anywhere between $500 to $1,000 (excluding the servicing charge). So, it’s wise to go for a replacement.
Problem 3: Rear Differential Seal Leakage
Leakage issue is another common problem in this Rangers. However, I found this particular issue is more frequent, mainly in Polaris Ranger’s 2007 models, such as 700XP.
“The issue of rear differential leakage has been resolved from Polaris Ranger’s 2009 models.”
You can detect this issue after inspecting the rear differential’s oil line. It mainly happens when the diff becomes hotter than it should. And the flowing oil leaks from the driveshaft if the seal is worn out.
Another entirely counter reason may cause it if your vehicle is parked in water for hours. This happens mostly during floods. Because of that, the water creates external force and seeps into the seal.
As the line has close contact with the road, dirt can quickly get inside it and make the situation even worse before you find this issue.
The most frustrating thing is that this problem isn’t covered by the extended warranty in some regions (as warranty policies vary from dealer to dealer in the USA).
Solution: Follow Precautions, Get a Replacement
If talking about the precaution, it’s best to apply in cold water streams after driving, whenever you can. This keeps the vent line at an adequate temperature.
And if you’ve already witnessed oil leaking from the vent line, the only way to fix this is to replace it. I suggest getting a new unit only from the dealer you bought the car from.
Usually, the price of a rear diff seal starts from $240 to, at maximum, $290. It includes the labor cost.
Problem 4: Polaris Ranger Differential Lock Problems
Another nightmare is when your Ranger’s diff stays locked in two-wheel drive mode. No matter how many times you try, it doesn’t switch to the Turf mode.
In addition, you’re supposed to hear a click sound when shifting the mode. But it won’t make this sound.
The locking problem occurs when water gets into your Ranger. And just like before, this issue is quite common in 2007 and 2012 Rangers. Because these sensors are less resistant to water, as reported by many users.
Solution: Check the Switch and E-Brake
The first step to finding the problem source is inspecting the power in and out of the shifting switch. Use a light tester for the purpose. In this way, you can figure out whether the issue is caused by a faulty switch or not. Even if it’s the connector, this may happen.
“Please note that if the problem is caused by low voltage, the rear diff lock issue also appears.”
After probing the switch, if you see the terminal’s and shifted wheel power don’t change accordingly, most probably, it’s the “switch” behind the problem.
There is another chance that the e-brake switch is engaged, causing the diff lock issue. Rangers are built in a way so that they can detect the e-brake is engaged; it’ll drive the power to solenoids. As a result, you end up with a locked rear differential. So, try disengaging the e-brake.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if your rear differential is blown?
A malfunctioning or blown diff would vibrate, and this vibration will increase as you speed up. Gear wearing or grinding is another sign of a defective diff. And you will hear a whining noise of course.
How much does a differential cost to replace?
Rear differentials are typically available from $1500 to $5500.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there can be multiple Polaris Ranger rear differential problems. If you’re facing other than oil seal leakage, diff lock, and noise due to broken diff, then you might seek professional help. However, if not fixed earlier, it may require a new replacement.
You might also witness a bearing issue, which only happens when you actually replace the part.
Whatever the problem is, in most cases, you can fix this with the help of a mechanic.