Waverspeed 2-inch Lift Kit Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the Waverspeed 2-inch Lift Kit. This kit is designed to increase the ground clearance of your UTV, allowing for larger tires and improved off-road capability. Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning installation to ensure proper procedure and safety.

2. Safety Information

Warning:

Installation of this lift kit modifies your vehicle's suspension and handling characteristics. Improper installation or use can lead to serious injury or death. If you are not confident in your mechanical abilities, seek professional installation.

• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and gloves.
• Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on a level surface using jack stands before working underneath. Never rely solely on a jack.
• Disconnect the battery before beginning any electrical work.
• Do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended torque specifications for fasteners.
• After installation, perform a thorough inspection of all components and test drive the vehicle in a safe area.
• An alignment may be required after installing a lift kit to ensure proper vehicle handling and tire wear.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components listed below are present in your Waverspeed 2-inch Lift Kit package. If any parts are missing or damaged, contact your supplier immediately.

Image 3.1: Overview of the Waverspeed 2-inch Lift Kit components, including various brackets, spacers, and bolts.

• Lift Brackets (various shapes and sizes)
• Spacers/Bushings
• Mounting Hardware (bolts, nuts, washers)

Image 3.2: Detailed view of the lift kit components as packaged, showing the lift brackets, spacers, and all necessary hardware.

4. Compatibility

This Waverspeed 2-inch Lift Kit is compatible with the following Polaris Ranger UTV models:

Image 4.1: Visual compatibility chart for the lift kit, showing applicable Polaris Ranger models and years.

Important Note on Wheel Spacers:

• If your vehicle uses factory steel wheels with this lift kit, 1.5-inch rear wheel spacers are required.
• If your vehicle uses factory aluminum wheels or aftermarket aluminum wheels, spacers are not required.

5. Tools Required

The following tools are typically required for the installation of a UTV lift kit:

• Floor Jack
• Jack Stands (minimum 4)
• Wheel Chocks
• Socket Wrench Set (metric and/or standard, depending on vehicle)
• Open-End Wrench Set
• Torque Wrench
• Pry Bar (for leverage)
• Penetrating Lubricant (e.g., WD-40)
• Measuring Tape
• Safety Glasses and Gloves

6. Installation Instructions

This section outlines the general steps for installing the Waverspeed 2-inch Lift Kit. Specific procedures may vary slightly depending on your exact Polaris Ranger model. Refer to your vehicle's service manual for detailed component identification and removal procedures.

6.1. Pre-Installation Steps

1. Park the UTV on a flat, level surface. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks on the wheels that will remain on the ground.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on all four wheels, but do not remove them yet.
3. Using a floor jack, lift the front of the UTV and place jack stands securely under the frame, ensuring the vehicle is stable. Repeat for the rear of the UTV.
4. Remove all four wheels.
5. Familiarize yourself with the suspension components, including the shocks, A-arms, and mounting points.

6.2. Front Lift Kit Installation

1. Locate the upper shock mounting points on the front suspension.
2. Carefully remove the bolts securing the upper shock mounts. You may need to use a pry bar to relieve tension.
3. Install the appropriate Waverspeed front lift brackets to the upper shock mounts. These brackets typically relocate the shock's mounting point to achieve the desired lift.
4. Secure the brackets using the provided hardware, ensuring all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications. Do not fully torque until the vehicle is on the ground.
5. Reattach the shocks to the new mounting points on the lift brackets.

Image 6.1: Example of lift kit components, demonstrating the robust construction and design for adding clearance.

6.3. Rear Lift Kit Installation

1. Locate the upper shock mounting points on the rear suspension.
2. Remove the bolts securing the upper rear shock mounts.
3. Install the appropriate Waverspeed rear lift brackets to the upper shock mounts. These brackets will also relocate the shock's mounting point.
4. Secure the brackets with the provided hardware, ensuring all bolts are tightened.
5. Reattach the shocks to the new mounting points on the lift brackets.
6. If using factory steel wheels: Install 1.5-inch rear wheel spacers at this stage, following the spacer manufacturer's instructions.

Image 6.2: Conceptual diagram illustrating the increased ground clearance (2 inches front and rear) achieved after installing the lift kit.

6.4. Post-Installation Steps

1. Reinstall all four wheels and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
2. Carefully lower the UTV to the ground.
3. With the vehicle's weight on the suspension, fully torque all lug nuts to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications.
4. Fully torque all suspension bolts installed with the lift kit to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications.
5. Bounce the suspension several times to allow components to settle.
6. Measure the vehicle's height at various points (e.g., fender to ground) to confirm the 2-inch lift.
7. It is highly recommended to have a professional alignment performed after installing any suspension lift kit to prevent premature tire wear and ensure proper handling.

7. Operating Considerations

After installing the Waverspeed 2-inch Lift Kit, be aware of the following changes to your UTV's operation:

• Center of Gravity: The vehicle's center of gravity will be raised, which can affect stability, especially during sharp turns or on uneven terrain. Exercise caution and reduce speed in such situations.
• Handling: Steering response and overall handling characteristics may change. Take time to familiarize yourself with the modified vehicle in a safe environment.
• Tire Clearance: The increased clearance allows for larger tires. Ensure that any new tires do not rub against suspension components or fender wells during full suspension travel or steering.
• Driveshaft Angles: A 2-inch lift is generally mild, but always inspect driveshaft and CV joint angles for excessive stress, especially if you notice vibrations.

8. Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity and safe operation of your UTV after installing the lift kit:

• Initial Check (50-100 miles): After the first 50-100 miles of driving, re-check the torque on all bolts installed with the lift kit. Components can settle, and bolts may loosen slightly.
• Routine Checks: Periodically inspect all lift kit components for wear, damage, or corrosion. Check for loose bolts, cracks in brackets, or signs of stress.
• Cleaning: Keep the suspension components clean, especially after off-road use, to prevent dirt and debris from causing premature wear.
• Alignment: Monitor tire wear. Uneven tire wear can indicate an alignment issue that needs to be addressed.

9. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues after installing the Waverspeed 2-inch Lift Kit, consider the following:

• Uneven Lift:
  • Verify that the correct brackets are installed on the correct side (front/rear, left/right) and oriented properly.
  • Ensure all bolts are fully tightened.
  • Check for any pre-existing suspension issues on your UTV.
• Noise (Clunking, Squeaking):
  • Re-check all fasteners for proper torque. Loose components are a common cause of noise.
  • Inspect for any components rubbing against each other (e.g., tires rubbing fenders, suspension components contacting the frame).
  • Ensure all bushings are properly seated and lubricated if applicable.
• Poor Handling/Steering:
  • An alignment is critical after a lift kit installation. If not performed, this is likely the cause.
  • Check tire pressure.
  • Ensure all steering and suspension components are free from binding.

If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, consult a qualified mechanic or contact Waverspeed customer support.

10. Specifications

11. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information regarding your Waverspeed 2-inch Lift Kit, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact the seller directly. Waverspeed aims to provide quality products and support.

If you require technical assistance or have questions about installation, please contact Waverspeed customer service through the retailer where the product was purchased or visit the official Waverspeed website for contact details.