So, you’ve got a Polaris General. You already know it’s one of the most versatile machines on the market, a perfect blend of a hard-working utility vehicle and a trail-shredding sport rig. You probably agree that keeping that “do-it-all” capability at its peak requires more than just filling it with gas and hitting the trail.
We promise to give you the insider’s playbook. This is the definitive polaris side by side general guide you’ve been looking for, packed with real-world advice from years spent in the garage and on the trail. We’re going to break down exactly what your machine needs to stay reliable and perform its best.
In this post, you’ll learn the essential maintenance routines, how to diagnose and fix common issues, which performance mods actually make a difference, and even some eco-friendly tips to keep our trails open for years to come. Let’s get those hands dirty.
The Heart of the Beast: Essential Engine & Drivetrain Care
Your General’s ProStar engine and transmission are the core of its performance. Treating them right is non-negotiable. This polaris side by side general care guide starts with the absolute basics that make the biggest difference.
Mastering the Oil Change
Clean oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Don’t skip this. Polaris recommends changing the oil and filter every 100 hours, 1,000 miles, or 6 months, whichever comes first. If you ride in extremely dusty or wet conditions, do it more often.
You’ll need the right oil (like Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic), a new oil filter (we recommend OEM or a quality equivalent like K&N), a drain pan, and a socket set. Always warm up the engine for a few minutes to get the oil flowing before you drain it. And please, use a torque wrench on that drain plug—over-tightening is a costly mistake.
Keeping Your Air Filter Breathing Clean
A clogged air filter chokes your engine, robbing it of power and efficiency. The airbox on the General is pretty easy to access. After every dusty ride, pop the cover and inspect the filter.
Tap out the loose dust and debris. If it’s heavily soiled, replace it. Trying to wash a standard paper filter is a bad idea; it damages the filter media. A clean filter is one of the cheapest forms of insurance for your engine’s health.
CVT Belt Health: Your Key to Smooth Power
The drive belt is a critical wear item on any polaris side by side general. A glazed or worn belt will cause slipping, poor acceleration, and eventually leave you stranded. Periodically remove the CVT cover to inspect the belt for cracks, glazing (a shiny, smooth appearance), or hourglassing (uneven wear).
A pro tip: Use compressed air to blow out the clutch sheaves and the entire CVT housing while you’re in there. Dust from the belt builds up and can cause issues. When it’s time for a new belt, stick with a high-quality OEM or an aftermarket option from a reputable brand like Gates.
Your Pre-Ride Ritual: The 5-Minute Safety Check That Saves Headaches
Before every single ride, take five minutes to walk around your machine. This simple habit can catch a small problem before it becomes a major failure on the trail. These are the polaris side by side general best practices that separate seasoned riders from rookies.
- Tires & Wheels: Check your tire pressure. Look for any cuts or punctures. Grab each wheel and check for any play or looseness, which could indicate a bad wheel bearing or ball joint.
- Fluids: Quickly check your engine oil and coolant levels. Look under the machine for any new drips or leaks. A small leak in the garage is much easier to fix than a big one 20 miles from the truck.
- Controls & Brakes: Squeeze the brake pedal. It should feel firm, not spongy. Check that your throttle operates smoothly and returns crisply. Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock to ensure it feels right.
- Lights & Electrical: Turn the key on and test your headlights (high and low beams), brake lights, and any accessory lights. A quick check now saves you from getting caught in the dark.
- Chassis & Suspension: Do a quick visual scan of your suspension components. Look for any obviously bent or broken parts. Check that any cargo in your dump bed is secure.
Common Problems with Polaris Side by Side General Models (And How to Fix Them)
Even the most reliable machines have their quirks. Knowing the common problems with polaris side by side general models helps you diagnose issues quickly. Here are a few things to watch out for.
Troubleshooting Overheating Issues
If your temp light comes on, stop immediately. The most common culprit is a mud-caked radiator. The radiator is located up front, and it can get packed with mud, preventing airflow. Let it cool down, then gently wash it out with a hose (not a pressure washer, which can bend the delicate fins).
Also, check your coolant level in the overflow bottle. If it’s low, you may have a leak. And ensure your radiator fan is kicking on when the machine gets hot. If it isn’t, you could have a bad fan motor, fuse, or relay.
Diagnosing and Replacing a Worn Drive Belt
The first sign of a bad belt is often a burning smell, a sudden loss of power, or a “clunking” sound when you take off. If your machine suddenly won’t move but the engine revs, you’ve likely blown a belt.
Learning how to polaris side by side general belt replacement is a crucial trailside skill. You’ll need the specific clutch tool to spread the secondary clutch sheaves, a few sockets, and a new belt. Practice it once in your garage so you’re not learning how to do it in the middle of nowhere.
Chasing Down Electrical Gremlins
Electrical issues often stem from a bad connection. The vibrations of off-roading can loosen battery terminals or wiring harness plugs. Start by ensuring your battery terminals are clean and tight. A multimeter is your best friend here.
Check fuses first—it’s the simplest fix. If you’ve added accessories like a light bar or winch, double-check your wiring. A poorly grounded wire is a frequent cause of mysterious electrical problems.
Unlocking Performance: Smart Upgrades for Your Machine
The stock General is fantastic, but mods are half the fun! The benefits of polaris side by side general upgrades are improved capability, comfort, and reliability. Here’s where we’d put our money first.
Tires and Wheels: The Foundation of Performance
The single best upgrade you can make is a good set of tires. The stock tires are okay for general use, but a quality 8-ply radial tire designed for your terrain will provide better traction, a smoother ride, and far greater puncture resistance. Brands like Maxxis, ITP, and EFX make excellent options.
Suspension Upgrades: From Bouncy to Buttery Smooth
If you find your General bottoms out too easily or the ride is too harsh, consider upgrading your springs or shocks. A simple spring upgrade from a company like Shock Therapy or Schmidty Racing can make a world of difference in ride quality and handling without breaking the bank.
Lighting the Way: Essential LED Upgrades
The factory headlights are adequate, but they’re no match for true darkness. An LED light bar is a game-changer for night rides. A 10- to 30-inch bar mounted on the front bumper or roof provides incredible visibility, enhancing both safety and fun after the sun goes down.
Sustainable Off-Roading: Eco-Friendly Tips for General Owners
Being a true enthusiast means protecting the places we love to ride. A sustainable polaris side by side general is one that’s not just well-maintained, but also operated with respect for the environment. These are simple but important habits.
Practice the principles of Tread Lightly. Stay on marked trails, cross streams only at designated crossings, and avoid creating new, damaging lines. Pack out everything you pack in—leave the trail cleaner than you found it.
When performing maintenance, be an eco-friendly polaris side by side general owner. Use a drain pan to catch all fluids and dispose of used oil, coolant, and brake fluid at an auto parts store or local recycling center. Never dump them on the ground or down a drain.
Lastly, be mindful of your noise. A loud exhaust might sound cool, but it can be disruptive to wildlife and other people enjoying the outdoors. Keeping your stock exhaust in good condition is a great way to be a good steward of the trail.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Polaris Side by Side General
What is the best oil to use in a Polaris General?
The manufacturer strongly recommends using their proprietary Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic engine oil. It’s specifically formulated for the high-stress environment of a powersports engine. If you opt for an alternative, ensure it is a high-quality full synthetic oil rated for wet-clutch use, like a JASO MA/MA2 certified oil.
How often should I check my CVT drive belt?
A visual inspection every 25-50 hours of ride time is a good rule of thumb. If you do a lot of slow, technical rock crawling, tow heavy loads, or run oversized tires, you should check it more frequently as those activities put more stress on the belt.
Can I put a larger tire on my stock Polaris General?
Yes, you generally can. Most General models can comfortably fit a 28-inch or even a 30-inch tire on the stock suspension without rubbing. Going larger than that will likely require a lift kit and may necessitate clutch work to compensate for the increased rotating mass and gearing change.
What’s the most important spare part to carry on the trail?
Without a doubt, a spare CVT drive belt and the tools to change it. A flat tire can often be plugged, but a blown belt will stop you dead in your tracks. A tire plug kit and a portable 12v air compressor are a very close second.
This comprehensive collection of polaris side by side general tips should give you the confidence to maintain, troubleshoot, and enjoy your machine to the fullest. Taking the time to understand your General and perform these checks will pay you back with countless hours of reliable fun.
Remember, the goal is to spend more time on the trail and less time in the garage fixing what broke. Stay safe, ride smart, and we’ll see you out there!
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