High Lifter HDFFA-RNG1 Apex Front Forward Arm Kit

For: Polaris Ranger 1000 XP – Apex (Heavy Duty) Front Forward Arm Kit

Supported Brands

Parts are available for popular brands and others, including:

Contact Information

Email: sales@highlifter.com

Phone: 800-699-0947 (8:00am - 6:00pm CST)

Address: 780 Professional Drive North, Shreveport, LA 71105

Website: www.highlifter.com

Parts Diagram

The following parts are included in the kit:

Note: These instructions are used for kits that come with or without ball joints. If your kit did not include pre-installed ball joints, you will need the following:

For tips on pressing in ball joints, refer to the "Ball Joint Installation Tips and Checks" section at the end of these instructions.

Installation Instructions: Passenger Side

  1. Place a jack under the center of the RUV front end and lift until the front wheels clear the ground. Ensure the RUV is securely supported, allowing control arms and shocks to droop to full extension.
  2. Remove the front wheels.
  3. Before removing the upper and lower control arms, disconnect the following components:
    • Axle nut and cotter pin
    • Caliper and brake line from the control arm
    • Sway bar link
    • Tie rod
    • Shock
    • Ball joints
  4. Disconnect and remove the stock upper and lower control arms. The stock hardware will be reused.
  5. Remove the pivot caps, sleeves, and bushings from the factory arms.

    Note: Exercise caution when removing the bushing from the collars. The factory arm has a built-in stop that prevents the bushing from pushing out during installation. The bushing must be pushed out from the opposite side. A center punch is recommended for bushing removal.

  6. Note: The following steps for removing and reusing factory ball joints apply only if your kit was purchased without pre-installed ball joints. If your kit came with ball joints already installed, proceed to Step 9.
  7. Remove the ball joints from the STOCK control arms. These will be reused in the new kit.
    • a. Remove the snap ring from the ball joint.
    • b. A press or vise is recommended for removing and replacing ball joints.
  8. Reinstall ball joints into the NEW control arms.

    Note: A press or vise is recommended for ball joint installation. If a ball joint is pressed in crooked, do not force it straight, as this can "egg" the opening. Press the ball joint out and reinsert it, pressing it in with a vise. Verify that the clip snaps into place after installation. Always double-check the ball joint snap ring for proper fit. Even with snap ring pliers, it may not seat correctly. You can use a flathead screwdriver and hammer to tap the snap ring into its groove.

  9. Reinstall the bushings, sleeves, and pivot caps into the new arms. Applying grease can ease installation.

    Note: Once the bushing is inserted, use a socket to help push it in completely.

  10. The new lower High Lifter control arms are pre-adjusted to factory length. If re-adjustment is needed, place the arms on a flat surface. Measure the distance from eyelet to ball joint on the factory arm, then set the new arm to match those lengths.

    Note: If re-adjusting, leave jam nuts loose. Do not tighten them until the arms are installed on the UTV and all final adjustments are made.

  11. Before attaching the new arms, install the steering stop kit.
  12. Begin with the driver's side, as it offers less room. After installing the spacer on the passenger side, you will have less play on the driver's side.
  13. Turn the steering wheel all the way to the right. If working on the passenger side, turn it all the way to the left.

    Note: To re-secure the boot, turn the steering wheel closer to the center to provide slack in the boot.

  14. The boots on the rack and pinion are secured by zip ties. Cut the zip tie that secures the boot to the inside of the rack and pinion.
  15. Pull the boot back to expose the inner tie rod joint.
  16. Place the steering stop (10U) clip between the inner tie rod joint and the rack and pinion. It is a tight fit and may require force to ensure the spacer stays in place.
  17. Pull the boot back over the ball joint and steering stop. Refasten with an 11” zip tie. Ensure the zip tie is tight to prevent material from entering the boot.
  18. Before installing the new lower control arms, remove material from the inner frame tab nearest to the axle. Remove just enough for the axle to clear the tab at full droop. This is required on both driver and passenger sides.
  19. Use the factory nuts and bolts to connect the new upper control arms to the RUV frame.

    Note: When installing the control arms, insert them at an angle to fit between the frame tab and the outer frame.

  20. Reconnect the knuckle assembly to the ball joints.
  21. Reconnect the sway bar to the upper control arm using factory hardware.
  22. Reconnect the bottom of the shock to the upper arm using stock hardware.
  23. Reconnect the tie rod to the knuckle assembly.
  24. Reconnect the brake caliper and secure the brake line using the provided 8” zip ties.

    Note: Ensure the brake lines have sufficient slack at a full turn before fully tightening the zip ties.

  25. Repeat steps for the opposite side.
  26. Once both sides are complete, reinstall the wheels. Take the UTV off the jack and roll it back and forth several times to check camber.
  27. If camber does not require adjustment, skip to the front alignment steps.
  28. If camber adjustment is needed, jack the UTV up again and secure it. Disconnect the lower adjustable arms only at the frame to adjust the collars. Then proceed with the wheel camber adjustment steps.

Adjusting Wheel Camber

The control arms are pre-adjusted to factory length, which is .937.

Note: When re-adjusting, leave jam nuts loose. Do not tighten until the UTV is installed and all final adjustments are made.

Make all adjustments in small increments. Disconnect control arms at the frame and adjust collars. After making small adjustments, take the UTV off the jack, roll it back and forth several times to check camber. Repeat steps as needed. After alignment is complete, tighten jam nuts to 80 ft-lbs and secure with blue loctite.

Positive Camber

If you have positive camber, adjust the collar OUTWARD or lengthen the collar.

Correct Camber

For this application, a camber setting of 0° is recommended. Collars are preset to .937.

Negative Camber

If you have negative camber, adjust the collar INWARD or shorten the collar.

Front Alignment

Place the machine on a smooth level surface and set the steering wheel in a 'straight ahead' position. Secure the steering wheel.

  1. Measure from the floor and place a chalk mark at the center of both front tires, at the front and rear of each tire, as close to the hub center line as possible.

    Note: Ensure the height of both marks is equally positioned for accurate measurement.

  2. Measure the distance between the center mark of the Left Hand (LH) tire and the center mark of the Right Hand (RH) tire at the front of the tires. Record this measurement as 'B'.
  3. Measure the distance between the center mark of the LH tire and the center mark of the RH tire at the rear of the tires. Record this measurement as 'C'.
  4. Subtract measurement 'C' from measurement 'B'. The difference (B – C) is the vehicle toe alignment.
  5. The recommended vehicle toe tolerance is 1/8" to 1/4" (3.175-6.35mm) toe out. This means measurement 'B' (front) should be wider than measurement 'C' (rear).
  6. If toe alignment is incorrect, measure the distance between the vehicle center and each wheel (using the chalk mark as the wheel center) to determine which tie rod needs adjusting.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Ensure the steering wheel is straight ahead before determining tie rod adjustments. When tightening tie rod end jam nuts, hold the tie rod ends parallel to prevent damage and premature wear.

To adjust toe alignment, hold the tie rod end to prevent rotation. Loosen jam nuts at both ends of the tie rod. Shorten or lengthen the tie rod (screw in or out) until the required 'Toe Out' setting is achieved. After alignment, tighten and torque tie rod end jam nuts to specifications (12-14 ft lbs).

Steering Adjustment

You may need to check the factory steering setup.

Note: The factory steering for the Polaris Ranger 1000 may not be centered, causing uneven tie rod engagement and an off-center steering wheel. If your steering is already centered, you do not need to follow these steps.

Setting the Steering to ZERO:

  1. With the steering centered (zeroed), check the steering wheel's position. If it is not centered, remove the center cap using a flathead screwdriver to access the steering wheel nut.
  2. Using a ratchet, turn the steering nut counterclockwise until the steering wheel locks at full turn, then loosen the nut slightly. Do not remove the nut yet.
  3. After loosening the nut, back it off, leaving a few threads. Tap the nut with a hammer while pulling up on the steering wheel to break it loose. Avoid hammering too hard to prevent damage to the nut or threads. Remove the nut and steering wheel.
  4. Now adjust the steering wheel accordingly. Replace the wheel, ensuring the vehicle's wheels are straight. The steering wheel should be oriented straight up and down.

    Note: Rolling the vehicle back and forth may help straighten the wheels.

  5. Thread the steering wheel nut back on. Turn the nut clockwise until the steering wheel locks at full turn, then tighten the nut. Replace the center cap.

    Note: Loctite may be applied to the nut.

Customer Installation & Warnings

This product is designed to increase ground clearance and fender clearance on ATVs and/or RUVs. Purchasers should be aware that using this product may increase the frequency of required maintenance, part wear, and will raise the vehicle's center of gravity, increasing the risk of roll-over, injury, and death on all types of terrain. It is the user's responsibility to inform all operators and passengers of these added risks.

High Lifter Products are designed to fit stock ATV/RUV conditions. Adding, modifying, or fabricating any OEM or aftermarket parts will void the warranty. High Lifter Products may interfere with other aftermarket accessories. Contact High Lifter Products to verify compatibility if aftermarket products are installed.

Using wider tires, wheel spacers, or increasing the vehicle's height can affect handling characteristics, requiring extra care, especially on side hills or off-camber situations. Operate at slower speeds and on relatively flat ground, making all turns slowly.

Operating an ATV/RUV with modified suspension components, especially after consuming alcohol or drugs, significantly increases the risk of serious bodily harm or death. Always wear approved helmet and safety gear.

By purchasing and installing High Lifter Products, the user agrees that High Lifter Products is not responsible for any damages, loss of time, use, labor fees, replacement parts, or freight charges. Liability is limited to the total purchase price of the product.

If the product is not as expected or suitable for intended use, return it before installation for a refund (less any fees). After installation, the product is warranted for 90 days for defects in workmanship and materials. High Lifter Products warrants only its own parts. Damage to OEM components or parts due to improper installation, misuse, or modification is not covered.

Dealers and Other Installers

It is your responsibility to inform your customer and end-user of the increased potential hazards associated with modified suspension components. Install warning labels prominently and instruct users on slower speed operation.

High Lifter Lifetime Warranty

High Lifter offers a Lifetime Warranty on its products, signifying their toughness and durability.

Making a Warranty Claim

  1. Claims must include the part and original proof of purchase (sales receipt).
  2. All warranties require a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Contact High Lifter at 318-524-2270 or 800-699-0947 for an RMA.
  3. When shipping the damaged product:
    • Write the RMA number on the outside of the box.
    • Include the RMA number, proof of purchase, and any notes inside the box.
    • Keep your tracking number and shipment information.
  4. Return shipping within the lower 48 states is covered by High Lifter Products. Standard shipping services apply for all warranty claims.
  5. High Lifter will process your order within 24 business hours of receiving the returned item.
  6. Ship to: High Lifter Products, 780 Professional Drive North, Shreveport, Louisiana 71105.

Ball Joint Installation Tips and Checks

Review these steps when installing ball joints into your new High Lifter Control Arm Kit.

SPECIAL NOTE: The warranty for this product does not cover improper installation of ball joints. Any claim related to a ball joint issue will require inspection before warranty eligibility can be determined. Damage due to improper installation (ridges, scarring, impact marks) will result in the warranty not being approved.

  1. Verify the ball joint hole is free of paint or materials that could prevent a successful press fit. If there is overspray or paint buildup, use a razor blade, utility knife, or sharp edge to clean the openings on both sides of the ball joint hole. Do not use a grinder or power tool, as this can remove more than paint and damage the control arm.
  2. Insert the ball joint into the opening, ensuring it is pointing the proper direction. It should seat into the hole up to the ring. This helps ensure the ball joint is pressed in straight. Check that the rubber boot clears the edge of the hole when inserting the ball joint.
  3. When pressing the ball joint, support the ball joint end of the arm in a press with a solid object underneath. This allows the ball joint end to pass through completely and ensures the arm is supported properly. Verify the boot clears the pressing fixture and the hole is deep enough for the full length of the ball joint.
  4. When pressing the ball joint, ensure it is fully seated so the snap ring can be fully seated. Clean the snap ring groove of any paint or material that may have lodged there during the press operation. Use a pick or fine point to clear the groove. Use a snap ring tool to secure the snap ring in place.

    Note: If the ball joint is pressed too hard, it may crack the paint. Touch-up paint can be applied if this occurs.

  5. After the snap ring is installed, verify it is fully seated. A screwdriver and hammer can be used to tap the ring into the groove if necessary. The snap ring may appear seated but still have room to close. If it is not fully seated, the ball joint could come out during riding, making this final step critical.
HDFFA-RNG1 Rex Dirks Adobe PDF Library 20.12.75

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