The Can-Am Renegade 800, a beastly ATV known for its raw power and aggressive styling, has captured the hearts of off-road enthusiasts for years. However, like any machine pushed to its limits, it's not without its quirks. Understanding the common issues that plague these machines can save you time, money, and frustration on the trails. Let's dive into the potential headaches associated with owning a Renegade 800, and more importantly, how to address them.

Is Your Renegade 800 Acting Up? Let's Troubleshoot Together

Before we get into specific problems, it's important to remember that preventative maintenance is key to avoiding many issues. Regular oil changes, air filter cleaning, and visual inspections can catch small problems before they become major headaches. But even with meticulous care, things can still go wrong.

Common signs of trouble:

  • Difficulty starting
  • Engine overheating
  • Strange noises (clunking, grinding, squealing)
  • Loss of power
  • Erratic shifting
  • Warning lights illuminating on the dashboard
  • Excessive smoke from the exhaust

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, don't panic! Let's break down the most common problems and how to tackle them.

The Dreaded Overheating: Keeping Your Cool

Overheating is perhaps the most frequently reported problem with the Can-Am Renegade 800. This powerful engine generates a lot of heat, and the cooling system can sometimes struggle to keep up, especially in hot weather or during intense riding.

Possible causes of overheating:

  • Clogged Radiator: Mud, debris, and even insects can block airflow through the radiator, reducing its cooling efficiency.
  • Low Coolant Level: A leak in the cooling system or simply neglecting to top off the coolant can lead to overheating.
  • Faulty Thermostat: The thermostat regulates coolant flow. If it's stuck closed, the engine won't cool properly.
  • Water Pump Issues: A failing water pump won't circulate coolant effectively.
  • Air Lock in the Cooling System: Air bubbles can prevent proper coolant circulation.
  • Fan Malfunction: The radiator fan provides additional cooling when needed. If it's not working, overheating is likely.

How to fix it:

  1. Inspect the Radiator: Thoroughly clean the radiator with a soft brush and water. A pressure washer can be used with caution, but avoid getting too close to the fins to prevent damage.
  2. Check Coolant Level: Ensure the coolant reservoir is filled to the appropriate level. Look for any signs of leaks around hoses, the radiator, and the water pump.
  3. Test the Thermostat: Remove the thermostat and place it in a pot of boiling water. If it doesn't open, it needs to be replaced.
  4. Inspect the Water Pump: Look for signs of leakage around the water pump. If you suspect it's failing, it's best to replace it.
  5. Burp the Cooling System: After refilling the coolant, "burp" the system to remove any air pockets. This usually involves running the engine with the radiator cap off and squeezing the coolant hoses.
  6. Check the Fan: Ensure the fan is spinning freely and that the electrical connections are secure. You can test the fan motor directly with a 12V power source.

Preventative Measures:

  • Regularly clean the radiator, especially after riding in muddy conditions.
  • Use a high-quality coolant designed for ATVs.
  • Consider installing a radiator guard to protect it from debris.
  • Monitor your engine temperature gauge closely, especially during demanding rides.

The Infamous Stator Issue: Powering Through the Darkness

Another common problem with the Renegade 800 is stator failure. The stator is a crucial component of the charging system, responsible for generating electricity to power the ATV and recharge the battery.

Symptoms of a failing stator:

  • Battery not charging
  • Weak or dead battery
  • Engine misfires or stalls
  • Dim headlights
  • Error codes related to the charging system

Causes of stator failure:

  • Overheating: Excessive heat can damage the stator windings.
  • Moisture Intrusion: Water or mud can corrode the stator.
  • Loose Connections: Poor electrical connections can cause the stator to work harder and overheat.
  • Age and Wear: Over time, the stator windings can break down due to normal wear and tear.

How to diagnose and fix it:

  1. Check Battery Voltage: Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts when the engine is off.
  2. Check Charging Voltage: Start the engine and check the battery voltage again. It should increase to around 13.5-14.5 volts if the charging system is working properly.
  3. Stator Resistance Test: Use a multimeter to measure the resistance of the stator windings. Consult your service manual for the correct resistance values.
  4. Stator Output Test: Use a multimeter to measure the AC voltage output of the stator while the engine is running. Again, consult your service manual for the correct values.
  5. Replace the Stator: If the stator fails any of these tests, it needs to be replaced. This is a fairly involved process that requires removing the flywheel cover and flywheel.

Tips and Considerations:

  • Use a high-quality replacement stator from a reputable brand.
  • Consider replacing the voltage regulator at the same time, as it can also fail and damage the new stator.
  • Ensure all electrical connections are clean and secure.
  • Properly seal the flywheel cover to prevent moisture intrusion.

The Clicking Noise: Axle and CV Joint Woes

That annoying clicking sound, especially when turning, is often a sign of worn CV joints on the axles. These joints allow the axles to articulate as the suspension moves, and they're exposed to a lot of stress and abuse.

Causes of CV joint failure:

  • Lack of Lubrication: The CV joints need to be properly lubricated with grease.
  • Torn CV Boot: A torn boot allows dirt and water to enter the joint, leading to premature wear.
  • Aggressive Riding: Hard riding and frequent impacts can damage the CV joints.

How to diagnose and fix it:

  1. Inspect the CV Boots: Look for any tears, cracks, or leaks in the CV boots.
  2. Listen for Clicking Sounds: Pay attention to whether the clicking sound is louder when turning in one direction versus the other.
  3. Check for Play in the Axles: Grab the axle near the CV joint and try to move it back and forth. Excessive play indicates a worn joint.
  4. Replace the CV Joint or Axle: If the CV joint is worn or the boot is torn, you can either replace the entire axle or just the CV joint (if possible).

Preventative Measures:

  • Regularly inspect the CV boots for damage.
  • Replace torn boots immediately.
  • Grease the CV joints periodically (if applicable).
  • Avoid excessive wheel spin and hard impacts.

Fuel Pump Failures: A Costly Quirk

The fuel pump on the Renegade 800 can be prone to failure, especially on older models. This can leave you stranded on the trail, so it's important to be aware of the symptoms.

Symptoms of a failing fuel pump:

  • Difficulty starting
  • Engine stalls or misfires
  • Loss of power
  • Whining noise from the fuel tank area

Causes of fuel pump failure:

  • Contaminated Fuel: Dirt and debris in the fuel tank can clog the fuel pump filter and damage the pump.
  • Overheating: The fuel pump can overheat if it's constantly running with a low fuel level.
  • Age and Wear: Like any mechanical component, the fuel pump can wear out over time.

How to diagnose and fix it:

  1. Check Fuel Pressure: Use a fuel pressure gauge to check the fuel pressure at the fuel rail. Consult your service manual for the correct pressure specification.
  2. Listen for Fuel Pump Noise: Turn the key to the "on" position and listen for the fuel pump to prime. If you don't hear anything, the pump may be dead.
  3. Inspect the Fuel Tank: Check for any signs of contamination in the fuel tank.
  4. Replace the Fuel Pump: If the fuel pump fails the pressure test or is not priming, it needs to be replaced.

Tips and Considerations:

  • Use a high-quality replacement fuel pump.
  • Clean the fuel tank thoroughly before installing the new pump.
  • Replace the fuel filter at the same time.
  • Avoid running the ATV with a low fuel level.

Electrical Gremlins: Chasing Down the Shorts

Electrical issues can be frustrating to diagnose, but they're not uncommon on the Renegade 800.

Common Electrical Problems:

  • Blown Fuses: Repeatedly blowing fuses indicates a short circuit.
  • Faulty Wiring: Damaged or corroded wiring can cause a variety of problems.
  • Bad Grounds: Poor grounding can lead to erratic electrical behavior.
  • Sensor Failures: Faulty sensors can trigger warning lights and affect engine performance.

How to troubleshoot electrical problems:

  1. Check Fuses: Start by checking all the fuses in the fuse box. Replace any blown fuses with the correct amperage rating.
  2. Inspect Wiring: Look for any signs of damaged or corroded wiring. Pay close attention to areas where the wiring is exposed to the elements.
  3. Check Grounds: Ensure all ground connections are clean and secure.
  4. Use a Multimeter: A multimeter is an essential tool for diagnosing electrical problems. You can use it to check for voltage, resistance, and continuity.
  5. Consult a Wiring Diagram: A wiring diagram can help you trace circuits and identify potential problems.

Tips and Considerations:

  • Use dielectric grease on all electrical connections to prevent corrosion.
  • Repair or replace damaged wiring immediately.
  • Don't overload circuits by adding too many accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why does my Renegade 800 overheat so easily? Overheating is a common issue, often due to a clogged radiator, low coolant, or a faulty thermostat. Regular maintenance and cleaning the radiator can help.

  • How do I know if my stator is bad? Common signs include a dead battery, dim headlights, and engine misfires. Testing the stator with a multimeter is the best way to confirm.

  • What causes clicking noises when I turn? Clicking noises are usually caused by worn CV joints in the axles. Inspect the CV boots for tears and listen for the noise to worsen when turning.

  • My Renegade 800 is hard to start. What could be the problem? A hard start can be caused by a weak battery, a faulty fuel pump, or a problem with the ignition system. Start by checking the battery voltage and fuel pressure.

  • How often should I change the oil on my Renegade 800? Oil change intervals depend on riding conditions, but generally, every 50-100 hours of riding is recommended. Always use oil specifically designed for ATVs.

Final Thoughts

Owning a Can-Am Renegade 800 can be an exhilarating experience, but being prepared for potential problems is crucial. By understanding the common issues and how to address them, you can keep your machine running smoothly and enjoy countless adventures on the trails. Regularly inspect your ATV and address any problems promptly to prevent further damage and keep your Renegade running strong.