Do you want to upgrade your Polaris Ranger with new aftermarket wheels, or would you like to install wheel spacers to achieve a wider stance? In both cases, you’ll need to know what your bolt pattern is. This information is crucial, as it ensures a proper fit and installation.
In this article, we will tell you all you need to know about the Polaris Ranger bolt pattern and share some other useful info and tips with you. Keep reading!
Polaris Ranger Bolt Pattern Guide
Below you can see the table with all the necessary info on the bolt pattern Polaris Ranger. Since this vehicle was first introduced in the late 1990s, its bolt pattern has stayed the same, 4×156 mm, but its other specs have changed slightly:
| Generation | Model Years | Lug Pattern | Bolt Pattern Size | Lug Nut Thread | Center Bore |
| Ranger (early/classic) | 1998–2006 | 4-lug | 4×156 mm | 3/8"-24 | 115–131 mm |
| Ranger (mid-generation) | 2007–2014 | 4-lug |
4×156 mm |
Mostly 3/8"-24 | 131 mm |
| Ranger XP 900 / XP 900 Crew | 2012–2018 | 4-lug |
4×156 mm |
M12×1.50, depending on the model year | 131 mm |
| Ranger XP 1000 / Crew XP 1000 | 2014–present | 4-lug |
4×156 mm |
M12×1.50 | 131 mm |
| Ranger 570 (mid-size & full) | 2014–present | 4-lug |
4×156 mm |
3/8"-24 or M12×1.50 | 131 mm |
| Ranger EV / Specialty models | Varies by year | 4-lug |
4×156 mm |
3/8"-24 or M12×1.50 | 131 mm |
Polaris Ranger Lug Nut Size and Torque
The most common lug nut sizes on Polaris Rangers are 3/8"-24 on older models and M12×1.50 on newer XP and 1000 series models. Make sure to check your model’s year before figuring out the exact lug nut site.
When it comes to torque specs, they generally range between 90 and 120 ft-lbs. This mostly depends on wheel type and application. Always double-check your owner’s manual before tightening to avoid damaging studs by overtorquing or causing unsafe fitment by undertoquing.
4 Tips for Fitting Wheels on Your Polaris Ranger
Now that you know the Polaris Ranger bolt pattern, some other useful information and tips could come in handy:
1. Know What You Want to Achieve
Before you buy new wheels or spacers for your Polaris Ranger, ask yourself why you are doing it.
- Are you looking for more stability?
- Do you want your Ranger to look better?
- Maybe you need to improve your off-road performance?
Knowing this will influence the offset, width, and design you should choose.
2. Choose Hub-Centric Over Lug-Centric Fitment
A hub-centric wheel (or wheel spacers) sits snugly against the hub. This prevents vibration and stress on the studs. Polaris hubs typically measure around 131 mm, so look for wheels or spacers that match this bore size.
A lug-centric wheel (or wheel spacers) does not rest tightly on the hub bore. Instead, it is supported by the lug nuts themselves. As such, they are far less safe an option than the hub-centric wheels and wheel spacers.
Understand hub-centric vs lug-centric wheels
3. Pay Attention to Offsets and Clearance
Wider wheels or negative offsets can give your Ranger a more aggressive stance. However, they may also cause rubbing on suspension components or fenders. Always measure before purchasing any wheel upgrades, as it can help you prevent such issues from occurring.
4. Ensure Compatibility
Even though the Polaris Ranger bolt pattern has been pretty much consistent at 4×156 mm, its lug threads and torque specs vary by model year. So, to avoid any mistakes or future issues, double-check all specs for your exact trim.
Summary: Which Bolt Pattern Should Polaris Rangers Use?
All Polaris Rangers use the 4×156 mm bolt pattern. This makes it easy to find wheels and spacers. However, you still need to confirm the lug nut thread and hub bore size for your specific model before buying.
How To Choose The Best Wheel Spacers For Polaris Ranger
When choosing the best wheel spacers for your Polaris Ranger, consider how you plan to drive it. It’s not the same if you want to drive it daily or off-road. Each driving style (or desired aesthetic upgrade) requires different wheel sizes and offsets. Once you know what you want, you can match the technical specifications.
Regardless of what kind of upgrade you’re buying: new wheels, spacers, or adapters, always pay attention to these:
- Bolt pattern - make sure it’s 4×156 mm
- Lug nut thread - it should be 3/8"-24 or M12×1.50
- Offset and center bore - most Polaris Ranger generations use 131 mm center bore
Best Wheel Spacers for Polaris Ranger
4x156 Wheel Spacers with Studs for Polaris Ranger
This Orion Motor Tech wheel spacer kit fits many Polaris Ranger, as well as RZR, and Kawasaki ATVs from 1987 to 2012. It provides a 2-inch wider stance for better handling, balance, and wheel fitment. Furthermore, it is built from forged T6 billet aluminum, which means it will last you for a long time.
Why You Should Use Wheel Spacers on Your Polaris Ranger
Wheel spacers are useful if you want a wider stance for stability. They are also great if you need to clear aftermarket tires or simply want a tougher look. They can also help with handling by distributing the vehicle’s weight more evenly.
However, keep in mind that low-quality spacers or incorrect installation can lead to premature wear or safety issues. That’s why you should buy wheel spacers made of forged or billet aluminum, because this material is lightweight and extremely durable at the same time.
Conclusion
In this article, we have shared everything you need to know about the Polaris Ranger bolt pattern. This is important to know in case you ever decide to install wheel spacers or new wheels.
Make sure to remember other specs, such as lug nut thread and center bore, as they are also important to ensure a proper fit. Always go for hub-centric instead of lug-centric options. In case you need high-quality but affordable wheel spacers, you can buy them at Orion Motor Tech.
You might also be interested in the Toyota FJ bolt pattern guide.
