Troubleshooting Polaris Ranger Carrier Bearing Issues and Replacement Tips

Troubleshooting Polaris Ranger Carrier Bearing Issues

The carrier bearing on a Polaris Ranger ATV allows the driveshaft to transfer power from the transmission or transfer case to the differentials smoothly. This bearing supports the driveshaft and allows it to spin freely. Over time, carrier bearings can wear out, causing vibration and noise issues.

On the Polaris Ranger, the carrier bearing is located under the vehicle, in the middle of the driveshaft. It is held in place by the bearing carrier, which bolts to the frame. Identifying and replacing a worn carrier bearing on your Ranger can prevent further damage to your drivetrain.

Symptoms of a Worn Carrier Bearing

Here are some common signs that your Polaris Ranger's carrier bearing is worn and needs to be replaced:

• Vibration or shaking while accelerating or decelerating
• Grinding, rubbing or whining noises from under the vehicle
• Grease leaking from the bearing carrier area
• Play or looseness in the driveshaft
• Uneven tire wear from driveshaft imbalance

Usually vibration or noise that changes with vehicle speed points to driveshaft or carrier bearing trouble. Have a helper hold the brake while you increase throttle to isolate whether the issue is engine or drivetrain related.

Inspecting the Carrier Bearing

To thoroughly inspect your Ranger's carrier bearing:

1. Safely lift and support the vehicle.
2. Look under the middle of the vehicle and locate the bearing carrier.
3. Check for any looseness in the driveshaft by rocking it back and forth.
4. Inspect for signs of grease leaks near the driveshaft and bearing carrier.
5. Rotate the driveshaft and check for any roughness, grinding or play.
6. Compare the condition to the opposite driveshaft if applicable.

If you find excessive looseness, leaking grease or roughness when turning the shaft, the carrier bearing likely needs to be replaced.

Replacing the Carrier Bearing

Replacing a worn carrier bearing on a Polaris Ranger involves removing the driveshaft and pressing out the old bearing. Here is the general process:

1. Lift the vehicle safely and remove the wheels/tires for easier access.
2. Mark the driveshaft orientation and disconnect it from the axles.
3. Remove the bearing carrier bolts and detach it from the frame.
4. Press the bearing out of the carrier using a bearing puller tool.
5. Thoroughly clean the carrier and inspect it for damage.
6. Press in the new, sealed bearing using an appropriate driver.
7. Reinstall the bearing carrier and torque the mounting bolts to spec.
8. Reconnect the driveshaft at the axles while aligning the marks.
9. Reinstall the wheels/tires and lower the vehicle.

Be sure to purchase the correct replacement bearing for your Ranger model year and confirm proper preload after installation. This will maximize bearing life and prevent premature failure.

Preventing Carrier Bearing Damage

To maximize the lifespan of your Polaris Ranger's carrier bearing:

• Maintain proper driveshaft phasing and alignment.
• Keep rubber isolator bushings in good condition.
• Change the gearcase oil regularly.
• Grease the driveshaft splines and carrier bearing when servicing.
• Promptly repair any leaks to prevent contamination.
• Use quality bearings from reputable brands like Timken or Koyo.

Checking for play and listening for noise from the carrier bearing area during routine service intervals can also help prevent premature failure down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris Ranger Carrier Bearings

Here are answers to some common questions about carrier bearings on Polaris Ranger ATVs:

What causes these bearings to fail prematurely?

Frequent causes of early carrier bearing failure include:

• Incorrect or out of spec preload
• Damaged or misaligned driveshaft
• Leaking seals contaminating the bearing
• Insufficient or improper lubrication
• Excessive vehcile speed or impact loading
• Use of poor quality, off-brand bearings

How difficult is it to replace this bearing?

With some mechanical skill and experience, most driveway mechanics can replace a Polaris Ranger carrier bearing at home. Proper tools like a bearing puller and installer are required along with knowledge of driveshaft procedures. If you are not comfortable, a professional shop can usually replace them fairly quickly.

Can I just grease it or use additives to fix noise?

Once the carrier bearing is worn internally, just adding grease or lubricants will provide only temporary improvement. The uneven wear will cause the noise to return. Replacement of the bearing is the permanent fix.

Are aftermarket carrier bearings OK to use?

Quality aftermarket bearings from reputable brands are generally fine for replacement. Just be sure to precisely match dimensions and specifications to OEM. Lesser quality no-name bearings often fail prematurely. For optimal life, stick with Timken, Koyo or SKF.

Should I replace bearings in pairs?

It's a good idea to replace carrier bearings in pairs even if only one is currently worn. If one is worn, chances are the other side is not far behind. This preventive maintenance saves you labor costs in the long run.

FAQs

How can I tell if my Polaris Ranger carrier bearing is worn out?

Common signs of a worn carrier bearing include vibration under acceleration, grinding or whining noises, grease leaking from the bearing area, excessive driveshaft play, and uneven tire wear.

What tools do I need to replace a Polaris Ranger carrier bearing?

Replacing this bearing requires basic hand tools plus a bearing puller, bearing installer/driver, torque wrench, and lifting equipment for the vehicle.

What is the average life expectancy of these bearings?

With proper installation and maintenance, a Polaris Ranger carrier bearing should last around 25,000 to 30,000 miles under normal use before needing replacement.

Can I just add grease to stop the noise from a bad bearing?

No, adding grease is only a temporary fix. Once the bearing has internal wear, replacement is required to permanently resolve noise issues.

Is it OK to only replace one carrier bearing?

It's recommended to always replace carrier bearings in pairs, even if only one is currently bad. This preventive maintenance will save labor costs down the road.