Ever get that nagging feeling that your 2019 RZR Turbo S has more to give? You mash the throttle, the engine roars to life, but the power delivery to the wheels feels just a bit sluggish, almost like something is slipping. You’re not imagining it, especially if you’ve added bigger tires, a tune, or extra weight.
I’m here to tell you that the key to unlocking that crisp, instant response and building a more durable machine is hiding under that plastic cover. The factory clutch setup is a compromise, designed for a “one-size-fits-all” scenario. But your riding isn’t one-size-fits-all, is it?
This comprehensive guide promises to demystify the world of the 2019 polaris rzr turbo s clutch kit. We’ll break down exactly why you need one, the incredible benefits you’ll gain, how to choose the right kit for your terrain, and the best practices for installation and maintenance. Let’s get your RZR dialed in perfectly.
Why Your Stock RZR Clutch is Holding You Back
Before we dive into the solution, it’s crucial to understand the problem. Your RZR uses a Continuously Variable Transmission, or CVT. Think of it not as a system with fixed gears, but as a brilliant setup with two variable-diameter pulleys connected by a drive belt.
The primary clutch (on the engine) and the secondary clutch (on the transmission) work together. As engine RPMs increase, weights in the primary clutch fly outwards, squeezing its sheaves together. This forces the belt to ride higher, effectively creating a larger “gear.” This process is what transfers power to the wheels.
The stock setup is designed for stock tires, stock power, and a very average rider. The moment you change any part of that equation, you create a mismatch. This is where the problems begin.
The Common Symptoms of an Overwhelmed Stock Clutch
If you’re experiencing any of these, your stock clutch is waving a white flag:
- Poor Low-End Engagement: A jerky or sluggish start from a dead stop, especially on hills.
- Belt Slippage: You’ll smell it before you feel it—that distinct burning rubber odor. This is the number one killer of expensive drive belts.
- Loss of Top-End Speed: The clutch isn’t shifting out fully, preventing you from reaching your machine’s maximum velocity.
- Slow Back-Shifting: When you let off the gas to go into a corner and then get back on it, there’s a noticeable lag before the power kicks back in. This is the clutch failing to “downshift” quickly.
- Excessive Heat: A hot clutch cover is a sign of inefficiency and slippage. Heat is the mortal enemy of your belt and clutch components.
The Game-Changing Benefits of a 2019 Polaris RZR Turbo S Clutch Kit
Upgrading to an aftermarket clutch kit isn’t just a performance mod; it’s a reliability and ride-quality enhancement. It recalibrates your CVT to match your specific machine setup and riding style. A quality kit addresses the shortcomings of the stock system with precision-engineered components.
Here are the core benefits of a 2019 polaris rzr turbo s clutch kit that you will feel on the very first ride.
Unlocking a New Level of Performance
A well-designed clutch kit gives you:
- Lightning-Fast Throttle Response: The power gets to the wheels instantly. No more lag, just pure acceleration when you demand it.
- Improved Acceleration: By keeping the engine in its peak powerband during acceleration, you’ll get out of the hole quicker and pull harder through the midrange.
- Better Back-Shifting: The clutch will respond immediately as you get on and off the throttle, making the machine feel more connected and predictable in technical terrain or fast corners.
- Reclaimed Top Speed: If you lost speed due to bigger tires, a clutch kit can help you get it back by allowing the CVT to achieve its full shift-out.
Boosting Drivetrain Reliability
This is arguably the most important benefit. A proper clutch setup is a drivetrain-saver.
- Drastically Reduced Belt Temperatures: The number one goal of a clutch kit is to improve belt grip and reduce slippage. Less slip means less friction, which means less heat. This is the key to making belts last.
- Longer Belt Life: By eliminating slip and reducing heat, you can often double or even triple the life of your drive belts. Considering a Turbo S belt can cost a pretty penny, the kit can pay for itself over time.
- Less Wear on Clutch Components: A smooth, efficient clutch puts less stress on the primary and secondary clutch components, extending their service life.
Choosing Your Perfect Clutch Kit: A Buyer’s Guide
Not all clutch kits are created equal. The “best” kit is the one that’s tailored for your machine’s setup and your primary riding environment. When shopping, you’ll need to provide some key information to the manufacturer or vendor.
Key Factors to Consider
Be ready to answer these questions:
- Tire Size: This is the most critical factor. Larger, heavier tires require different clutch calibrations to turn them effectively without burning belts.
- Riding Elevation: Air density affects engine performance. Kits are often weighted differently for high-elevation riders (typically above 5,000 feet).
- Riding Style: Are you a dune shredder, a technical rock crawler, a trail rider, or a mud bogger? Each style demands different engagement characteristics.
- ECU Tune & Engine Mods: If you’ve added horsepower with a tune, exhaust, or other mods, your clutch needs to be able to handle that extra power.
What’s Inside a Typical Kit?
A 2019 polaris rzr turbo s clutch kit will typically include a combination of these parts:
- Flyweights (or Arms): These are the heart of the calibration. Their weight and profile determine how aggressively the primary clutch closes and at what RPM.
- Primary Spring: This spring works against the flyweights and controls engagement RPM (the RPM at which the machine starts to move).
- Secondary Spring: This spring controls how quickly the secondary clutch opens and closes, which is critical for back-shifting and belt grip.
- Helix: This is a ramped component inside the secondary clutch. The angle of its ramps dictates how aggressively the clutch back-shifts and maintains belt tension. Some advanced kits include a custom helix.
How to 2019 Polaris RZR Turbo S Clutch Kit: A Step-by-Step Overview
Installing a clutch kit is a very manageable DIY job for someone with moderate mechanical skills and the right tools. This is a high-level overview; always follow the specific instructions included with your kit. Safety first!
Essential Tools You’ll Need
Don’t even start the job without these specialty tools:
- Primary Clutch Puller: This is non-negotiable. It’s a specific threaded bolt used to safely remove the primary clutch from the engine’s crankshaft.
- Clutch Compression Tool: You’ll need this to safely disassemble both the primary and (especially) the secondary clutch, which are under significant spring pressure.
- Basic Hand Tools: A good socket set, torque wrench, snap ring pliers, and Allen wrenches are a must.
The Installation Process at a Glance
- Access the Clutches: Remove the passenger-side rear tire and the plastic clutch housing cover. Use compressed air to blow out any dust and debris.
- Remove the Drive Belt: Use the Polaris-supplied tool to spread the secondary clutch sheaves and easily slip the belt off.
- Remove the Clutches: Use the clutch puller to remove the primary. The secondary is typically held on by a single bolt.
- Disassemble and Modify the Primary: Using the compression tool, safely take apart the primary clutch. Swap the stock flyweights and spring for the new ones from your kit. Pay close attention to the orientation of all parts.
- Disassemble and Modify the Secondary: This is where the compression tool is most critical. Carefully compress the clutch to remove the snap ring, then swap the stock spring (and helix, if included) for the new components.
- Reassembly and Torque: Reinstall the clutches on the machine. It is absolutely critical to use a torque wrench and tighten the clutch retaining bolts to the factory specification. Failure to do so can result in catastrophic failure.
- Install and Break-In New Belt: We highly recommend installing a brand-new belt with your new clutch kit. Wash the new belt with warm, soapy water to remove mold release agents, let it dry completely, and follow a proper break-in procedure (typically 20-30 miles of easy, varied-speed driving).
This is one of the most important 2019 polaris rzr turbo s clutch kit tips: A new kit deserves a new belt. Starting with a glazed, old belt will prevent you from getting the full benefit of your upgrade.
Common Problems and Pro Tips for Clutch Kit Success
Even with the best parts, things can be overlooked. Here are some common problems with a 2019 polaris rzr turbo s clutch kit and how to avoid them. This is where you apply the best practices.
Mistake #1: Not Cleaning the Clutches
Before and during installation, make sure the sheaves (the smooth, angled faces the belt rides on) are perfectly clean. Use a Scotch-Brite pad and brake cleaner or isopropyl alcohol on a clean rag. Any belt residue or grease will cause immediate slipping.
Mistake #2: Forgetting to Torque Bolts
I’ll say it again: you must torque the primary and secondary clutch bolts to the OEM spec. A loose primary clutch can literally destroy your engine’s crankshaft—a multi-thousand-dollar mistake.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Belt Break-In
Properly breaking in a new belt heat-cycles it and allows it to conform to the clutch sheaves. Skipping this step can drastically shorten its life. This is a key part of any good 2019 polaris rzr turbo s clutch kit care guide.
Long-Term Care and a Sustainable Approach
Once your kit is installed, a little preventative maintenance goes a long way. This is how you create a more sustainable 2019 polaris rzr turbo s clutch kit setup—one that lasts longer and performs better, reducing waste and replacement costs.
Every 25-50 hours of ride time (or after every very dusty/wet ride), pop the clutch cover off. Use compressed air to blow out all the belt dust from the clutches and the housing. This simple act prevents dust from building up on rollers and bushings, ensuring smooth operation.
A properly clutched machine is also a more eco-friendly 2019 polaris rzr turbo s clutch kit solution. By running more efficiently and transferring power without waste (slippage), your engine doesn’t have to work as hard, potentially improving fuel economy. More importantly, by extending the life of your belts and clutch components, you’re consuming fewer disposable parts over the life of your RZR.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Polaris RZR Turbo S Clutch Kit
What is the best clutch kit for a 2019 RZR Turbo S?
There is no single “best” kit. The best one is tailored to you. Brands like Aftermarket Assassins, Gilomen Innovations, and Starting Line Products (SLP) are all highly regarded. The key is to call them and discuss your specific setup: tire size, elevation, and riding style.
Can a clutch kit void my warranty?
Technically, yes, it can. If you have a drivetrain failure, the dealer could potentially deny a warranty claim because you modified the clutch. However, many riders find the massive improvement in reliability (especially belt life) is worth the risk.
How do I know if my clutch kit is working correctly?
The machine should feel responsive and connected. Your peak engine RPM during a full-throttle pull should be in the target range specified by your vehicle’s tuner or the clutch kit manufacturer (for a stock Turbo S, this is often around 8200-8400 RPM). Most importantly, you shouldn’t be smelling or slipping belts.
Is installing a clutch kit hard?
With the right specialty tools (puller and compressor), it’s a 4/10 in difficulty for a DIY mechanic. If you’re not comfortable working with components under high spring tension or don’t own a torque wrench, this is a job best left to a professional shop. The labor is typically not very expensive.
Upgrading your RZR’s clutch is one of the most transformative mods you can make. It bridges the gap between the power your engine makes and the performance you actually feel on the trail. By following this 2019 polaris rzr turbo s clutch kit guide, you’re well on your way to a faster, more responsive, and vastly more reliable machine.
Take your time, use the right tools, and get ready to experience what your Turbo S is truly capable of. Happy trails, and ride safe!
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