So, you're thinking about lifting your Polaris Rzr? Awesome! A lift kit can give your machine a more aggressive look and, more importantly, boost its ground clearance, letting you tackle tougher trails. But before you pull the trigger, it's crucial to understand the potential pitfalls that can come with adding a lift. Let's dive into the common problems associated with Polaris Rzr lift kits and how to avoid them, keeping your ride smooth and your wallet happy.

The Allure of the Lift: Why Do It?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of problems, let's quickly recap why people install lift kits in the first place. The main reasons are:

  • Increased Ground Clearance: This is the big one. More clearance means you can clear bigger rocks, logs, and ruts without scraping your undercarriage.
  • Larger Tires: A lift kit typically allows you to install larger tires, further enhancing ground clearance and improving traction.
  • Aggressive Look: Let's be honest, a lifted Rzr just looks cool. It gives your machine a more imposing stance.

But What Could Possibly Go Wrong? The Dark Side of Lifting

While the benefits of a lift kit are tempting, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Here's where things can get tricky:

1. Axle Angles and Premature Wear: The Angle of Attack

This is arguably the most common and significant issue. When you lift your Rzr, you change the angles of your axles. These angles become steeper, putting extra stress on the CV joints (constant velocity joints) at the ends of the axles.

  • The Problem: Increased axle angles lead to accelerated wear and tear on the CV joints. They can start clicking, popping, or even break prematurely. This means more frequent (and expensive) axle replacements.
  • The Fix:
    • Choose the Right Lift Size: Opt for a moderate lift (2-3 inches) to minimize axle angle changes. Avoid excessively tall lifts unless you're prepared for significant modifications.
    • High-Quality Axles: Consider upgrading to heavy-duty axles designed to handle the increased stress of a lifted Rzr. Brands like Rhino Brand, SuperATV, and Demon Axles are popular choices.
    • Limit Extreme Articulation: Be mindful of how much you're flexing your suspension. Avoid situations that push your axles to their maximum articulation limits.

2. Ball Joint Blues: Stressed and Strain

Just like axles, ball joints also suffer from increased stress after a lift. The altered suspension geometry puts more strain on these crucial components.

  • The Problem: Premature ball joint wear, leading to sloppy steering, clunking noises, and potential safety issues.
  • The Fix:
    • Upgrade to Heavy-Duty Ball Joints: Replace the factory ball joints with aftermarket options specifically designed for lifted Rzrs. These are typically made from stronger materials and feature improved designs.
    • Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your ball joints for play or looseness. Catching wear early can prevent more serious problems.
    • Proper Lubrication: Ensure your ball joints are properly lubricated to reduce friction and extend their lifespan.

3. Steering Woes: Tie Rod Troubles and Bump Steer

Lifting your Rzr can also affect its steering geometry, leading to issues like tie rod failures and bump steer.

  • The Problem:
    • Tie Rod Failures: The increased stress on tie rods can cause them to bend or break, especially when hitting obstacles.
    • Bump Steer: This occurs when the steering wheel jerks or pulls to one side as the suspension moves up and down. It can make the Rzr feel unstable and difficult to control.
  • The Fix:
    • Heavy-Duty Tie Rods: Upgrade to stronger tie rods made from materials like chromoly steel.
    • Bump Steer Correction Kits: These kits adjust the tie rod angles to minimize bump steer. They often include longer tie rods and modified tie rod ends.
    • Proper Alignment: After installing a lift kit, it's crucial to have your Rzr professionally aligned to ensure proper steering geometry.

4. Shocking Realizations: Suspension Stiffness and Ride Quality

While a lift kit itself doesn't always directly affect shock performance, the larger tires often installed afterward can impact ride quality.

  • The Problem:
    • Stiffer Ride: Larger tires, especially if overinflated, can make the ride feel harsher and less comfortable.
    • Reduced Suspension Travel: Some lift kits can limit the amount of available suspension travel, further contributing to a stiffer ride.
  • The Fix:
    • Proper Tire Pressure: Experiment with different tire pressures to find the sweet spot between comfort and handling.
    • Shock Tuning: Consider having your shocks professionally tuned to compensate for the changes in suspension geometry and tire size.
    • Progressive Rate Springs: Upgrading to progressive rate springs can improve ride quality by providing a softer initial feel and increased resistance to bottoming out.

5. Installation Headaches: The DIY Dilemma

Installing a lift kit yourself can save money, but it's not always a straightforward process.

  • The Problem:
    • Incorrect Installation: Improperly installed components can lead to a variety of problems, including premature wear, poor handling, and even safety hazards.
    • Missing Parts: Sometimes lift kits are missing hardware or instructions, making installation difficult.
    • Difficulty with Stock Components: Rust and corrosion can make it hard to remove stock parts.
  • The Fix:
    • Follow Instructions Carefully: Read the installation instructions thoroughly before you start.
    • Watch Videos: Look for online videos that demonstrate the installation process.
    • Get Help If Needed: If you're not comfortable with the installation, don't hesitate to seek professional help.
    • Penetrating Oil: Use a penetrating oil to loosen rusted bolts and nuts.

6. The Domino Effect: Other Potential Issues

Beyond the major problems, a lift kit can also contribute to other issues:

  • Wheel Bearing Wear: Increased tire size and weight can put extra stress on wheel bearings.
  • Brake Performance: Larger tires can reduce braking performance.
  • Fuel Economy: Increased tire size and rolling resistance can negatively impact fuel economy.

Choosing the Right Lift Kit: Do Your Homework

Not all lift kits are created equal. Here's what to consider when choosing a lift kit for your Polaris Rzr:

  • Quality of Materials: Look for kits made from durable materials like steel or billet aluminum.
  • Brand Reputation: Research different brands and read reviews to see what other users have to say.
  • Ease of Installation: Consider how easy the kit is to install.
  • Warranty: Check if the kit comes with a warranty.
  • Intended Use: Consider your riding style and the type of terrain you'll be tackling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will a lift kit void my Rzr's warranty?

A: It depends on the manufacturer and the specific terms of your warranty. Generally, installing aftermarket parts can void the warranty on related components, but it doesn't automatically void the entire warranty.

Q: How much does it cost to install a lift kit?

A: The cost varies depending on the complexity of the kit and labor rates. Expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars for professional installation.

Q: Can I install a lift kit myself?

A: Yes, if you have mechanical experience and the right tools. However, it's crucial to follow the instructions carefully and be aware of the potential risks.

Q: What size lift kit should I get?

A: A 2-3 inch lift is a good starting point for most riders. It provides a noticeable increase in ground clearance without significantly affecting axle angles.

Q: Will I need an alignment after installing a lift kit?

A: Yes, it's highly recommended to get an alignment after installing a lift kit to ensure proper steering geometry and prevent premature tire wear.

The Bottom Line

Lifting your Polaris Rzr can be a fantastic upgrade, but it's essential to be aware of the potential problems. By choosing the right lift kit, upgrading key components, and performing regular maintenance, you can minimize the risks and enjoy the benefits of a lifted Rzr for years to come. Remember to prioritize quality and research before making any decisions.