So, you’ve got the keys to a 2020 Polaris Trail Boss. You already know it’s a beast right out of the box, built to chew up trails and spit them out. But you also know that true off-road mastery isn’t just about what you buy; it’s about what you know and what you do to keep your machine running strong.
You’re in the right place. Forget the confusing forum threads and vague owner’s manuals. We promise this is the only 2020 polaris trail boss guide you’ll need, packed with real-world, garage-tested advice from folks who live and breathe this stuff.
In this deep dive, we’ll cover essential pre-ride checks, diagnose common problems before they sideline you, explore smart performance mods that actually work, and even touch on how to be a responsible rider. Let’s get those knuckles greasy.
Understanding Your 2020 Polaris Trail Boss: More Than Just a Machine
Before we start turning wrenches, let’s appreciate what we’re working with. The 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 Trail Boss wasn’t just another ATV; it was a purpose-built package designed for riders who demand more from their rig straight from the factory.
Its key features set it apart. The true On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD), robust engine, and factory-installed 26-inch CST tires on 14-inch aluminum wheels mean it’s ready for serious terrain. Understanding these components is the first step in proper maintenance and smart upgrading.
Key Benefits of the 2020 Polaris Trail Boss
Knowing why your machine is great helps you keep it that way. The primary benefits of 2020 polaris trail boss ownership are rooted in its trail-ready design:
- Superior Traction: The On-Demand AWD system is one of the best in the business. It engages all four wheels when you need more forward traction and reverts to 2WD when you don’t. This saves wear and tear on your drivetrain.
- Increased Ground Clearance: Dual A-arm suspension with 11.5 inches of ground clearance lets you crawl over obstacles that would stop lesser machines in their tracks.
- Ready-to-Go Package: Unlike base models, the Trail Boss came equipped with aggressive tires, premium wheels, and often a winch or bumper package, saving you money on immediate, essential upgrades.
The Pre-Ride Ritual: Your Essential 2020 Polaris Trail Boss Care Guide
The single most important thing you can do for your ATV is a thorough pre-ride inspection. It takes 10 minutes, but it can save you hours of frustration on the trail or thousands in repair bills. This is the foundation of all 2020 polaris trail boss best practices.
We use a simple acronym: T-CLOCS. It stands for Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, and Stands (or in our case, Suspension).
Step-by-Step T-CLOCS Inspection
- Tires & Wheels: Grab a quality tire pressure gauge. Check that all four tires are inflated to the pressure listed on the tire sidewall or your machine’s placard. Look for cuts, punctures, or embedded objects. Wiggle each wheel to check for loose lug nuts or worn wheel bearings.
- Controls & Cables: Squeeze the brake levers. They should feel firm, not spongy. Check the throttle for smooth operation—it must snap back cleanly when released. Inspect the throttle and brake cables for kinks or fraying.
- Lights & Electrics: Turn the key on. Test your headlights (high and low beams), taillights, and brake lights. If you have a winch, give it a quick in-and-out spool to ensure it’s working. A weak battery often shows its first signs here.
- Oil & Fluids: This is non-negotiable. Check your engine oil level when the engine is cold on a level surface. Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it fully, and pull it again for an accurate reading. Also, glance at your coolant overflow bottle and brake fluid reservoir to ensure they are between the ‘min’ and ‘max’ lines.
- Chassis & Suspension: Visually inspect the frame for any cracks or damage, especially after a rough ride. Look at your CV boots (the rubber accordion-like boots on your axles). A tear here lets dirt in and grease out, quickly destroying the joint. Push down on the fenders to check the suspension—it should compress and rebound smoothly.
Making this quick check a habit is one of the most valuable 2020 polaris trail boss tips we can offer. It builds a connection between you and your machine.
Common Problems with 2020 Polaris Trail Boss and How to Fix Them
Every machine has its quirks. Knowing the common problems with 2020 polaris trail boss models can help you diagnose issues quickly and prevent them from becoming ride-ending failures. Here are a few things to watch out for.
Problem 1: Premature Belt Wear or Slippage
The Symptom: You hit the gas, the engine revs high, but the machine doesn’t accelerate as it should. You might also smell burning rubber.
The Cause: The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) belt is a wear item. Aggressive riding, water in the clutch housing, or improper clutch alignment can toast a belt quickly.
The Fix:
- Prevention: Avoid prolonged high-RPM, low-speed situations (like being stuck in deep mud). Always use Low range when rock crawling, towing, or navigating technical terrain.
- DIY Check: You can remove the CVT cover (it’s the large plastic housing on the side of the engine) to inspect the belt for glazing, cracks, or missing cogs. A good spare belt and the tools to change it (a clutch spreader tool is key) are essential trail gear.
- When to Call a Pro: If you repeatedly burn belts, you may have a clutch alignment or clutch spring issue that requires a technician’s expertise.
Problem 2: Electrical Gremlins
The Symptom: The AWD doesn’t engage, the pod display flickers, or the machine is hard to start. Often, these issues are intermittent.
The Cause: Off-roading involves a lot of water, mud, and vibration, which are enemies of electrical connections. Corrosion on battery terminals or loose grounds are the most frequent culprits.
The Fix:
- Start Simple: Your first stop should always be the battery. Make sure the terminals are clean and tight. A wire brush and some dielectric grease are your best friends here.
- Check Grounds: Follow the black negative cable from the battery to where it bolts to the frame. Ensure this connection is clean and tight. A bad ground can cause a host of bizarre, hard-to-diagnose problems.
- Fuse Box: Check the fuses. A blown fuse is a sign of a problem, so don’t just replace it—try to figure out why it blew.
Problem 3: Suspension Sag and Bushing Wear
The Symptom: The ATV sits lower than it used to, feels “loose” or clunky in corners, or makes squeaking noises over bumps.
The Cause: The A-arm bushings are small plastic or Delrin sleeves that allow your suspension to pivot. Over time, they wear out, creating slop in the system.
The Fix:
- Diagnosis: Safely lift the front or rear of the ATV so the tires are off the ground. Grab the tire at the top and bottom and try to wiggle it. If you feel significant play or hear a clunk, your bushings (or possibly ball joints) are worn.
- DIY Project: Replacing A-arm bushings is a very manageable garage project. You’ll need a good socket set, a jack, and jack stands. Aftermarket bushing kits from brands like SuperATV or All Balls Racing are often more durable than OEM. This is a great “how to” project for a weekend DIYer learning about their 2020 polaris trail boss.
Unlocking Performance: Smart Mods and Upgrades
The Trail Boss is great from the factory, but who likes to leave things stock? Smart modifications can make your machine more capable, reliable, and suited to your specific riding style. Here’s where to get the most bang for your buck.
Tires: The #1 Performance Upgrade
The stock tires are good all-arounders, but a specialized tire will transform your machine.
- For Mud: Look for tires with deep, aggressive, widely spaced lugs like the ITP Mud Lite II.
- For Trails/Rocks: A tougher, 6-ply or 8-ply radial tire with a tighter tread pattern and strong sidewalls, like the Maxxis Bighorn 2.0, is a fantastic choice.
Pro Tip: When you go up in tire size, you change your machine’s final drive ratio. This can hurt low-end power and put more strain on your belt. Which leads us to…
Clutch Kit: Get Your Power Back
If you’ve added larger tires, a clutch kit is the correct way to adjust your CVT for them. It’s not about adding horsepower; it’s about applying the engine’s power more efficiently. A kit from a reputable company like EPI or Dalton will include different springs and weights to recalibrate your clutch engagement, giving you back that snappy, low-end torque.
Protection: Skid Plates and Guards
The underside of your ATV is vulnerable. The factory “skids” are thin plastic. A full belly skid plate made from UHMW (Ultra-High Molecular Weight) plastic or aluminum is cheap insurance against a punctured engine case or a ripped CV boot. A-arm guards and a front bumper are also wise investments.
Sustainable Riding: Eco-Friendly 2020 Polaris Trail Boss Best Practices
Being a true off-road enthusiast means protecting the trails we love for future generations. A sustainable 2020 polaris trail boss is one that’s well-maintained and ridden responsibly.
An eco-friendly 2020 polaris trail boss isn’t about compromising performance; it’s about being smart.
- Stay on the Trail: Stick to designated, marked trails. Riding off-trail can cause erosion, damage sensitive habitats, and get trails closed for everyone.
- Tread Lightly: Avoid spinning your tires, which tears up the trail surface. Cross streams only at designated crossings and go through mud puddles, not around them (going around widens the trail).
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: This is simple. Leave the trail cleaner than you found it. Pack out all your trash, and maybe even pick up some that others left behind.
- Maintain Your Machine: A well-maintained ATV is an eco-friendly one. Fixing oil and coolant leaks prevents these toxic fluids from contaminating the environment. A properly tuned engine also burns cleaner and is more efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Polaris Trail Boss
What kind of oil does a 2020 Polaris Trail Boss take?
Polaris recommends their own brand, PS-4 Full Synthetic 5W-50 oil. It’s specifically formulated for the high-stress, high-temperature environment of these engines. While other quality full-synthetic 5W-50 oils may work, using the OEM fluid is the safest bet during your warranty period.
How fast can a 2020 Polaris Trail Boss go?
Stock, a 2020 Sportsman 570 Trail Boss can typically reach a top speed of around 55-60 MPH on a flat, smooth surface. However, this machine is built for trail capability and low-end torque, not top-end speed runs.
Is the 2020 Polaris Trail Boss a reliable ATV?
Yes, the 570 platform is generally considered very reliable. Like any high-performance off-road vehicle, its longevity is directly tied to regular maintenance. Following the 2020 polaris trail boss care guide tips in this article will ensure you have a dependable machine for years to come.
Your 2020 Polaris Trail Boss is an incredible machine, a ticket to adventure and exploration. By investing a little time in understanding it, maintaining it, and riding it with respect, you’re not just protecting your investment—you’re becoming a better, more capable rider. Now, get out there, stay safe, and have fun on the trails!
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