You’ve hit the trails, conquered the mud pits, and pushed your machine to its limits. But as you hose down your rig, you can’t help but stare at those bulky, scuffed-up factory fender flares. They get snagged on branches, collect pounds of mud, and frankly, they just don’t match the aggressive spirit of your RZR.
You’ve probably seen other RZRs with that clean, mean, open-wheel look and thought, “I need that.” You’re in the right place. Performing a polaris rzr fender delete is one of the most impactful and satisfying DIY mods you can do.
We promise this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover the real-world benefits, the exact tools you’ll need, a step-by-step installation process, and the common pitfalls to avoid. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to tackle this project and transform your RZR’s profile this weekend.
Why Ditch the Factory Fenders? The Real Benefits of a Polaris RZR Fender Delete
This modification is about more than just looks, though that’s a huge part of it. Removing those stock fenders unlocks several practical advantages that serious riders appreciate. Understanding the benefits of a polaris rzr fender delete helps you know you’re making a smart upgrade.
Aggressive Styling and a Custom Look
Let’s be honest: this is the number one reason for most riders. A fender delete instantly gives your RZR a more aggressive, race-ready appearance. It exposes the suspension and tires, showcasing the mechanical heart of your machine and giving it a wider, more muscular stance.
Increased Tire Clearance for Bigger Rubber
If you’re planning on upgrading to larger, more aggressive tires, the stock fenders are the first thing to get in the way. Removing them provides crucial clearance, preventing rubbing during suspension compression and tight turns on uneven terrain. This means you can run the tires you really want without compromise.
Reduced Weight and Simpler Cleaning
While not a massive weight reduction, every pound counts. More importantly, the stock fenders are notorious for trapping mud, dirt, and debris in hard-to-reach pockets. A fender delete simplifies your post-ride cleanup, allowing you to easily wash out the wheel wells and suspension components.
Eliminating a Common Breakage Point
Those factory plastic flares are surprisingly brittle. A close encounter with a tree, rock, or even a tight squeeze in a trailer can lead to cracks and breaks. By removing them, you eliminate a common failure point, saving you the headache and cost of replacement down the road.
Gearing Up: Tools and Parts You’ll Need for the Job
Before you start pulling parts off your machine, let’s get organized. Having the right tools on hand makes the job smoother, faster, and prevents you from damaging your RZR. This is a straightforward project, and you likely have most of what you need already.
Essential Tools and Supplies
- Socket Set & Ratchet: You’ll likely need 10mm and 13mm sockets for various bolts.
- Torx Bit Set: Polaris loves Torx fasteners. A T25 and T30 are almost always required.
- Plastic Trim Removal Tool Kit: This is a must-have. Using a screwdriver will scratch and gouge your plastics. These pry tools are cheap and invaluable.
- Floor Jack and Jack Stands: Never work on a vehicle supported only by a jack. Safety first, always.
- Lug Wrench or Impact Wrench: For removing the wheels.
- Safety Glasses & Gloves: Protect yourself from dirt, debris, and scraped knuckles.
- Shop Towels or Rags: For cleaning surfaces before installing new parts.
Choosing Your Path: Aftermarket Kit vs. DIY Delete
You have two main options here. An aftermarket polaris rzr fender delete kit provides a clean, professional finish with pre-drilled holes and all necessary hardware. They’re typically made from durable aluminum, steel, or high-density plastic.
Alternatively, the DIY route involves fabricating your own block-off plates from materials like ABS plastic. This is cheaper but requires more time, precision, and the right tools for cutting and drilling. For most weekend mechanics, a quality kit is the more reliable and time-efficient choice.
The Complete Polaris RZR Fender Delete Guide: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Alright, it’s time to get hands-on. This detailed polaris rzr fender delete guide will take you through the process from start to finish. Take your time, follow the steps, and enjoy the process. This is how you learn your machine inside and out.
Step 1: Safety First & Preparation
Park your RZR on a flat, level surface like a garage floor or concrete pad. Put it in park and engage the parking brake. It’s also a good practice to chock the wheels that will remain on the ground. Give the wheel wells a good rinse to remove caked-on mud.
Step 2: Lift the Vehicle and Remove the Wheels
Using your floor jack, lift one side of the RZR at a time using the designated frame lift points. Securely place a jack stand under the frame for support. Never rely on the jack alone. Once secured, remove the lug nuts and pull the wheels off to give yourself wide-open access.
Step 3: Identify and Remove Factory Fasteners
Look inside the wheel well. You’ll see a series of plastic push-pins and several T25 or T30 Torx bolts holding the fender flare to the main body. Use your trim removal tool to gently pop the center of the push-pins up, then pull the entire pin out. Use your ratchet to remove all the Torx bolts.
Step 4: Carefully Detach the Fender Flare
With all fasteners removed, the fender flare is now held on by interlocking tabs. Start at one end and gently pull the flare away from the body. You may need to use your plastic pry tool to carefully release the clips. Be patient here to avoid breaking any tabs on your main body plastics.
Step 5: Clean the Mounting Surfaces
Once the flare is off, you’ll be left with a lot of dirt and grime on the body where the fender used to be. Use a rag with a mild degreaser or soapy water to thoroughly clean these surfaces. A clean surface ensures your new fender delete kit sits flush and looks professional.
Step 6: Install the Fender Delete Kit
Now for the satisfying part. Take your fender delete plate and align it with the now-exposed mounting holes. Most kits will reuse the factory hardware you just removed. Loosely start all the bolts by hand to ensure proper alignment before tightening them down. Don’t overtighten—just snug is perfect for plastic.
Step 7: Reassemble and Final Checks
Put the wheels back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the RZR off the jack stands so the tires are resting on the ground, then use your lug wrench to torque the nuts to the manufacturer’s specification (usually in a star pattern). Repeat the entire process on the other side, step back, and admire your work!
Avoiding Pitfalls: Common Problems with a Polaris RZR Fender Delete
While it’s a relatively easy mod, there are a few snags you can hit. Being aware of these common problems with a polaris rzr fender delete will help you achieve a flawless result and avoid frustration.
Gaps and Misalignment
This often happens when using a low-quality kit or rushing the installation. To prevent this, always test-fit your delete plates before bolting them down. If you encounter gaps, ensure there’s no debris behind the plate and try starting the bolts in a different order to help it sit flush.
Stripped Fasteners or Damaged Plastic
The plastic body panels and threaded clips on a RZR can be delicate. Always start bolts by hand to avoid cross-threading. When tightening, use a ratchet, not an impact wrench. You want them snug, not cranked down so hard that you crack the plastic or strip the hardware.
The Mud Factor: Are You Ready for More Splash?
This isn’t a problem, but a reality you must accept. Removing the fenders will result in more mud, water, and debris being thrown into and onto the cab. If you’re a serious mudder, you may want to pair your fender delete with a set of extended mud flaps or rock sliders with kick-outs to help mitigate the splash.
Forgetting State and Local Laws
If you ever plan to make your RZR street-legal or ride in areas with strict regulations, check your local laws. Some jurisdictions have “tire coverage” laws that require fenders to extend over a certain portion of the tire tread. It’s a crucial piece of due diligence that many people overlook.
Beyond the Basics: Polaris RZR Fender Delete Best Practices & Care
You’ve got the look, but how do you keep it that way and ensure you made the best choices? Following a few polaris rzr fender delete best practices will maximize the longevity and performance of your new setup.
Choosing the Right Kit for Your Riding Style
Not all kits are created equal. If you’re a rock crawler, a sturdy aluminum or steel kit will provide better protection against impacts than a plastic one. If you’re a dune rider focused on weight, a lightweight plastic or carbon fiber kit might be ideal. Match the material to your mission.
A Note on Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices
Being an off-roader means respecting the outdoors. When performing a sustainable polaris rzr fender delete, take a moment to consider the old parts. Don’t just toss the factory fenders in the trash. Check with your local recycling center; many can process the type of plastic they’re made from. Choosing a kit made from recycled aluminum is another great eco-friendly polaris rzr fender delete option.
The Long-Term Care Guide
Your new fender deletes are low-maintenance, but not no-maintenance. The core of a good polaris rzr fender delete care guide is simple: after every few rides, give the hardware a quick check to make sure nothing has vibrated loose. When washing your RZR, pay extra attention to cleaning the now-exposed suspension and A-arm bushings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris RZR Fender Deletes
Do I need a fender delete kit, or can I just remove the fenders?
You can simply remove the fenders, but it will leave exposed holes and an unfinished look on your RZR’s body. A fender delete kit provides a clean, custom plate that covers these holes, protects the body from debris, and gives the machine a professional, completed appearance.
Will a fender delete void my Polaris warranty?
Generally, cosmetic modifications like a fender delete will not void your entire vehicle warranty. However, if a failure can be directly attributed to the modification (for example, if a poorly installed kit causes damage to the body panel), the repair for that specific part may not be covered. When in doubt, check with your dealer.
How much more mud will I get on me without fenders?
Significantly more. The factory fenders are designed to control mud and water spray. Removing them means you and your passengers will get dirtier, faster. It’s part of the trade-off for the aggressive look and improved clearance. Many riders consider it a badge of honor!
Are fender deletes legal for trail use?
For most public off-road parks and trail systems, fender deletes are perfectly legal and very common. However, regulations can vary by state or specific land-use area. It’s always a good idea to check the rules for the specific places you ride, especially for any areas that require street-legal equipment.
A polaris rzr fender delete is more than just an aesthetic upgrade; it’s a statement. It strips your machine down to its functional, aggressive core while improving clearance and simplifying maintenance. It’s a project that is well within the reach of any DIYer and delivers instant gratification.
By following this guide, you have the knowledge and confidence to do the job right. So grab your tools, put on some tunes, and give your RZR the clean, mean look it deserves. Now get out there and put that new clearance to the test!
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