That constant, irritating chain slap on your kid’s Polaris Outlaw 110 isn’t just background noise on the trail. It’s a clear sign of a loose chain, a problem that can quickly escalate from an annoyance to a major safety hazard, causing premature sprocket wear or even a full chain derailment mid-ride.
You’ve probably agreed that something needs to be done. I’m here to promise you that a polaris outlaw 110 chain tensioner install is one of the most effective and straightforward upgrades you can perform right in your own garage. It’s a game-changer for reliability and peace of mind.
In this guide, we’ll preview everything you need to know. We’ll break down the benefits, list the exact tools you’ll need, walk you through the step-by-step installation, and cover the best practices for maintenance to ensure years of trouble-free fun on the trails.
Why a Chain Tensioner is a Must-Have Upgrade for Your Outlaw 110
The stock setup on the Outlaw 110 relies on manually adjusting the chain by moving the entire rear axle carrier. While this works, it requires frequent checks and adjustments, especially with a young rider who is constantly putting the machine through its paces.
A spring-loaded chain tensioner is an active solution. It constantly applies gentle pressure to the chain, automatically taking up slack as the suspension cycles and the chain naturally stretches over time. Let’s look at the core benefits of polaris outlaw 110 chain tensioner install.
- Reduced Chain and Sprocket Wear: A properly tensioned chain engages the sprocket teeth perfectly. A loose, slapping chain creates shock loads that accelerate wear on both the chain and sprockets, costing you money in replacement parts.
- Improved Safety: This is the big one. A loose chain has a much higher chance of derailing, which can lock up the rear wheels suddenly. Installing a tensioner drastically reduces this risk, keeping the rider safer.
- Quieter Operation: Say goodbye to that annoying chain slap! A tensioner keeps the chain running smoothly and quietly, making for a much more pleasant riding experience.
- Less Frequent Manual Adjustments: While you’ll still need to perform regular maintenance, the tensioner handles the minor, constant adjustments for you. This means less time wrenching and more time riding.
Gathering Your Tools and Parts: What You’ll Need Before You Start
There’s nothing worse than getting halfway through a job and realizing you’re missing a crucial tool. Let’s get everything laid out first. This job is straightforward and doesn’t require a full professional shop, but having the right tools makes it a breeze.
Essential Tools and Supplies
- ATV Stand or Lift: You need to get the rear wheels off the ground safely. A stable ATV lift or sturdy jack stands are non-negotiable. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
- Metric Socket Set and Ratchet: You’ll primarily need sockets in the 10mm to 17mm range for the swingarm and tensioner mounting bolts.
- Metric Wrench Set: A good set of combination wrenches is essential for holding nuts while you turn bolts.
- Torque Wrench: Critical for ensuring bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specification. Over-tightening can damage threads, and under-tightening can be dangerous.
- Threadlocker (Blue): We highly recommend a medium-strength threadlocker like Loctite Blue 242 for the tensioner mounting bolts to prevent them from vibrating loose.
- Safety Glasses and Gloves: Protect yourself. Always.
- Shop Rags and Cleaner: Good for cleaning up grime before and after the install.
The Chain Tensioner Kit
Ensure your aftermarket chain tensioner kit is specifically designed for the Polaris Outlaw 110. It should include the tensioner arm, a spring, the roller wheel, and all necessary mounting hardware (bolts, nuts, and spacers).
The Complete Polaris Outlaw 110 Chain Tensioner Install Guide: Step-by-Step
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty. This is your complete how to polaris outlaw 110 chain tensioner install guide. Take your time, follow the steps, and double-check your work. Safety first, speed second.
Step 1: Prepare the ATV
First things first, find a clean, level surface to work on. Chock the front wheels to prevent any rolling.
Using your ATV lift or jack stands, safely raise the rear of the Outlaw 110 so the rear tires are completely off the ground and the suspension can hang freely. Confirm the ATV is rock-solid and stable before you proceed.
Step 2: Locate the Mounting Point
The chain tensioner will mount to the underside of the swingarm. Look for a pre-existing hole or mounting tab located a few inches in front of the rear axle carrier. This is where Polaris designed the frame to accept this type of accessory.
Clean this area thoroughly with a rag and some degreaser. A clean work surface prevents dirt from getting into your new hardware threads.
Step 3: Assemble the Tensioner (If Required)
Some kits come pre-assembled, while others require you to assemble the roller wheel onto the tensioner arm. If yours needs assembly, slide the roller onto the arm, insert any bushings or bearings, and secure it with the provided bolt and nut.
Don’t overtighten the roller bolt; it needs to spin freely. A little grease on the roller’s axle or bearing is one of our favorite polaris outlaw 110 chain tensioner install tips for smooth, long-lasting operation.
Step 4: Mount the Tensioner to the Swingarm
This is the core of the installation. Position the tensioner’s mounting bracket against the swingarm mounting point. Insert the main mounting bolt through the bracket and the swingarm.
Place the end of the spring over the designated post on the tensioner arm. The other end of the spring will hook onto a small tab or bolt on the swingarm to provide the tension. Loosely thread the nut onto the mounting bolt, but don’t tighten it down yet.
The goal is to position the roller so it makes firm, centered contact with the bottom run of the chain. You may need to pivot the tensioner arm slightly to get it just right before final tightening.
Step 5: Set the Tension and Torque to Spec
With the tensioner in place, ensure the spring is correctly hooked. Now, tighten the main mounting bolt. Apply a drop of blue threadlocker to the bolt threads before the final tightening.
Use your torque wrench to tighten the mounting bolt to the specification listed in your tensioner’s instructions (or a standard torque spec for that bolt size if none is provided). This is a critical step in our polaris outlaw 110 chain tensioner install best practices. A properly torqued bolt won’t come loose on the trail.
Post-Install Checks and Best Practices for a Perfect Setup
You’re not done just because the bolt is tight. A few final checks ensure the job is done right and will perform flawlessly.
First, slowly rotate the rear wheels by hand. Watch the chain and the new tensioner roller. The roller should spin freely, and the tensioner arm should move smoothly up and down to absorb any minor slack or tight spots in the chain.
Listen for any binding or unusual noises. Ensure the chain is tracking perfectly straight on the roller and isn’t trying to walk off to one side.
Finally, lower the ATV off the stand. Sit on the machine to compress the suspension. This will change the chain geometry slightly. The tensioner should adjust accordingly, keeping consistent pressure on the chain. This is the ultimate test of a successful install.
Common Problems with Polaris Outlaw 110 Chain Tensioner Install and How to Avoid Them
Even a simple job can have its hiccups. Here are a few common problems with polaris outlaw 110 chain tensioner install and how to head them off at the pass.
- Problem: The roller isn’t aligned with the chain.
Solution: Most tensioner kits include spacers or washers. Use these to shim the tensioner mount left or right until the roller is perfectly centered on the chain. A misaligned roller will cause premature wear and could throw the chain. - Problem: The tensioner seems too tight or too loose.
Solution: Double-check that you have the spring installed correctly. Some springs have different mounting points for adjusting the tension. Ensure the arm can still move freely throughout the suspension’s travel. It should provide firm, but not excessive, pressure. - Problem: The mounting bolt keeps coming loose.
Solution: This is almost always due to skipping two key steps: using blue threadlocker and torquing the bolt to the correct specification. Don’t guess—use a torque wrench!
Long-Term Care: Your Polaris Outlaw 110 Chain Tensioner Install Care Guide
Your new tensioner isn’t a “set it and forget it” part, but its maintenance is simple. Following a good polaris outlaw 110 chain tensioner install care guide ensures it lasts as long as the ATV itself.
During your regular chain cleaning and lubrication, give the tensioner a quick wipe-down. Clean any built-up grime from the roller and the pivot point. Apply a few drops of your chain lube to the roller’s bearing or bushing to keep it spinning freely.
This is also where a sustainable polaris outlaw 110 chain tensioner install mindset comes in. By keeping your chain and tensioner clean and properly lubricated, you drastically extend their life. This means you replace parts less often, which saves resources and reduces waste. Using a high-quality, biodegradable chain lube is another great eco-friendly polaris outlaw 110 chain tensioner install practice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Polaris Outlaw 110 Chain Tensioner Install
Do I still need to adjust my chain manually after installing a tensioner?
Yes, but far less frequently. The tensioner handles minor slack from suspension movement and initial chain stretch. You will still need to perform major adjustments by moving the axle carrier as the chain wears significantly over its life. Think of the tensioner as an automatic fine-tuner.
Can installing a chain tensioner cause any damage?
If installed incorrectly, yes. A misaligned roller can wear out the chain’s side plates, and a spring that’s far too tight can cause excessive drag and wear on the drivetrain components. This is why following the steps and ensuring proper alignment is crucial.
What’s the difference between a spring-loaded tensioner and a manual one?
A spring-loaded tensioner, like the one in this guide, automatically adjusts to maintain pressure. A manual tensioner (less common in aftermarket kits for ATVs) is a roller on a fixed bracket that you must manually reposition as the chain stretches.
How do I know if my chain tensioner is worn out?
The two main wear items are the roller and the spring. If the roller develops deep grooves, becomes wobbly, or seizes up, it’s time for a replacement. If the spring loses its “springiness” and no longer provides adequate pressure, it should also be replaced.
And there you have it! You’ve successfully tackled the installation, improved the safety and reliability of the Outlaw 110, and quieted down that noisy chain. It’s a satisfying project that delivers immediate results you can see and hear.
Now, grab your helmet, do one last check of your work, and get back out on the trails. Happy riding!
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