There’s a reason you see so many of them out on the trails, farms, and job sites. The polaris side by side 570 platform, whether it’s a nimble RZR, a workhorse Ranger, or a versatile General, is a legend for a reason. It hits that perfect sweet spot of power, reliability, and agility.
But you know as well as I do that the difference between a flawless day of riding and a frustrating breakdown often comes down to knowledge. It’s about knowing what to check, what to listen for, and when to turn a wrench before a small issue becomes a trail-ending headache.
You want to feel confident in your machine, capable of handling basic maintenance, and smart about the upgrades that truly matter. You want to spend more time riding and less time worrying.
In this complete guide from FatBoysOffroad, we’re pulling back the curtain. We’ll cover everything from essential pre-ride checks and DIY maintenance jobs to diagnosing common problems and making your 570 an even more capable rig. Let’s get started.
Why the Polaris Side by Side 570 is a Trail Legend
Before we get our hands dirty, let’s talk about what makes this machine so popular. Understanding its strengths helps you appreciate why proper care is so important. The benefits of polaris side by side 570 ownership are clear once you get behind the wheel.
The ProStar 570 Engine: A Perfect Balance
At the heart of it all is the ProStar 570 engine. This single-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled powerplant is renowned for its reliability and snappy throttle response. It’s not a fire-breathing monster, but it has more than enough torque to climb hills and enough horsepower to be seriously fun on the flats.
Its design is efficient, relatively simple, and has been proven over years of use. This makes it a fantastic platform for both beginners and experienced riders who value dependability over raw, breakneck speed.
Versatility for Work and Play
Polaris cleverly put the 570 engine in various chassis. This means you can get that same reliable heart in a machine built for your specific needs:
- Ranger 570: The undisputed utility champion. It’s built for hauling, towing, and getting work done around the property.
- RZR 570: The trail-width (50-inch) sport machine. It’s designed for agility, fitting on tight, restricted trails where bigger machines can’t go.
- General 570: Though less common, it blends the utility of a Ranger with the sporty feel of a RZR.
This versatility means the core maintenance principles we’ll discuss apply broadly, making this a truly useful polaris side by side 570 guide.
Your Essential Pre-Ride Inspection: A 10-Minute Care Guide
The most important maintenance you’ll ever do is the check you perform before every single ride. This 10-minute routine can save you from hours of frustration. Think of it as a conversation with your machine. Here are the polaris side by side 570 best practices to live by.
Check Your Fluids
Fluids are the lifeblood of your engine and drivetrain. Always check them when the machine is on level ground and the engine is cold.
- Engine Oil: Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it fully, and pull it out again. The oil level should be between the ‘add’ and ‘full’ marks. Look at the oil’s color; it should be golden-brown, not milky (which indicates water) or black and gritty.
- Coolant: Locate the coolant overflow reservoir. The level should be between the low and high marks. Never open a hot radiator cap.
- Brake Fluid: Check the master cylinder reservoir. The fluid should be clear and topped up. If it’s low, it could indicate a leak or worn brake pads.
Tire Pressure and Condition
Your tires are your only connection to the trail. Use a quality low-pressure tire gauge to check the pressure in all four tires. The recommended PSI is usually on a sticker on the vehicle frame or in your owner’s manual.
While you’re down there, give each tire a quick visual inspection for cuts, punctures, or bubbles in the sidewall. A damaged tire is a major safety risk.
Brakes, Controls, and Lights
Hop in the driver’s seat. Press the brake pedal—it should feel firm, not spongy. Roll the machine forward a few feet and test them to ensure they engage properly. Turn the key on and check that your headlights, taillights, and brake lights are all working.
Inspect CV Boots and Axles
Peer into the wheel wells and look at the black, rubber, accordion-like boots on your axles. These are your CV (Constant Velocity) boots. They hold grease that lubricates the critical CV joints.
Make sure they aren’t torn or leaking grease. A torn boot allows dirt and water in, which will quickly destroy the joint, leading to an expensive repair. This is one of the most important polaris side by side 570 tips we can offer.
Tackling Common Problems with the Polaris Side by Side 570
No machine is perfect. Over time, you might run into a few hiccups. Knowing the common problems with polaris side by side 570 models and how to spot them is key to keeping your rig running strong.
Overheating and Cooling System Issues
The 570’s radiator is located up front, where it’s prone to getting clogged with mud and debris. If your temperature light comes on, the first thing to do (once it’s cooled down) is to clean the radiator thoroughly. A garden hose and some degreaser work wonders.
Also, check that your radiator fan is kicking on. Let the machine idle and watch the fan. If the temp gets high and the fan doesn’t start, you could have a bad fan motor, relay, or fuse. This is a common issue that is relatively easy to diagnose.
Starter and Electrical Gremlins
If you turn the key and just hear a “click,” start with the basics. Ensure your battery terminals are clean and tight. A wire brush and a 10mm wrench are your best friends here. A weak or old battery is the most common culprit.
If the battery is good, the click often points to a faulty starter solenoid. You can often bypass it temporarily to confirm the diagnosis, but be extremely careful and consult a service manual.
Clutch and Belt Maintenance
The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) belt is the number one wear item on any side-by-side. A glazed, worn, or broken belt will leave you stranded. You’ll notice slipping, a burning rubber smell, or poor acceleration when it’s going bad.
We recommend inspecting your belt every 50 hours of use. Keep a spare belt and the tools to change it (a simple clutch tool) in your machine at all times. Learning how to change a belt on the trail is a rite of passage and an essential skill.
How to Polaris Side by Side 570: Key DIY Maintenance Jobs
Ready to save some money and learn more about your machine? Here’s a basic how to polaris side by side 570 maintenance guide for jobs any motivated DIYer can handle.
Changing the Engine Oil and Filter
This is the most fundamental maintenance task. You’ll need the correct Polaris PS-4 oil, a new oil filter (like a Polaris 2540086), a drain pan, a funnel, and the correct size socket for the drain plug.
- Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil.
- Place the drain pan under the engine and remove the drain plug. Let it drain completely.
- Remove the old oil filter. A filter wrench might be needed.
- Wipe the filter sealing surface clean and apply a thin coat of new oil to the gasket of the new filter.
- Install the new filter and tighten it hand-tight plus another 1/4 turn. Do not overtighten.
- Re-install the drain plug with a new sealing washer and torque it to spec.
- Fill with the specified amount of new oil, run the engine for 30 seconds, shut it off, and re-check the level.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Air Filter
A dirty air filter chokes your engine, robbing it of power and efficiency. In dusty conditions, you should check it after every ride. Most 570 models have an easy-to-access airbox.
Simply remove the paper element and tap it gently to knock out loose dust. If it’s heavily soiled, replace it. Never use compressed air to blow it out from the inside, as this can create microscopic tears that let dust straight into your engine.
Servicing Drivetrain Fluids
Your front differential, transmission, and rear differential all have their own fluid. Changing these is just as important as engine oil, though it’s done less frequently (check your manual for intervals). The process is similar for all three: locate the fill and drain plugs, drain the old fluid, and refill with the correct Polaris AGL or Demand Drive fluid until it starts to seep out of the fill hole.
Sustainable Off-Roading: Eco-Friendly Polaris Side by Side 570 Tips
Being a responsible rider means protecting the trails we love for future generations. Practicing sustainable polaris side by side 570 off-roading is easy and makes a huge difference.
Tread Lightly and Stay the Trail
The single most important principle of eco-friendly polaris side by side 570 use is to stay on designated trails. Avoid sensitive areas like meadows and wetlands. Don’t create new bypasses around obstacles; if a trail is too tough, turn back. This prevents erosion and protects delicate ecosystems.
Prevent Fluid Leaks
Your pre-ride inspection is your first line of defense. A small oil or coolant drip in your garage is an environmental hazard on the trail. Address any leaks, no matter how small, before you head out. Carry a small spill kit or some absorbent rags just in case.
Wash Your Rig Responsibly
After a muddy ride, wash your machine at a car wash or on a gravel/grass area at home, not where the runoff will go directly into a storm drain or waterway. This prevents mud, oil, and invasive plant seeds from contaminating local water sources.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Polaris Side by Side 570
What kind of oil does a Polaris 570 take?
Polaris strongly recommends using their proprietary PS-4 Full Synthetic 5W-50 oil. It’s specifically formulated for the high-stress, high-temperature environment of a powersports engine. While other oils may work, using the OEM fluid is the safest bet to maintain engine health and warranty.
How often should I change the belt on my 570?
There is no set mileage for a belt change. It depends heavily on your riding style. A good rule of thumb is to inspect it every 50 hours and replace it preventatively every 100-150 hours or if you see any signs of significant wear like cracking, glazing, or missing cogs.
Is the Polaris Ranger 570 a good, reliable machine?
Absolutely. The Ranger 570 is widely considered one of the most reliable and capable mid-size utility side-by-sides on the market. Its ProStar engine is proven, and its chassis is built for work. With regular maintenance, it will provide years of dependable service.
Your polaris side by side 570 is more than just a machine; it’s a key to adventure and a valuable tool. Taking the time to understand it, care for it, and respect the environments you ride in will pay you back tenfold with reliability and countless great memories.
Now, grab your tools, get familiar with your rig, and start building the confidence that comes from being a truly capable owner. Stay safe, ride smart, and we’ll see you on the trail.
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