I kinda wish I installed them before I went out ridding but who can resist the urge to hit the trails after purchasing a new ATV?!
Product: Iron Baltic Skid Plate (Full Kit)
Application: 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 EPS
First order of business, inventory.
Parts all came with number stickers that coordinated with the installation instructions. This was very convenient during the install.
I had to gain access to the underside so I opted to use the ramps rather than attempt to do a wheelie in the garage.
I cleaned the underside and touched up a few minor rust spots. Again, should have installed the skids prior to riding.
Removed factory A-Arm guards and began installing the brackets. It was a little tricky getting the washer/nut combo inside some of the frame so I used petrol to assist with keeping them together.
The only other tricky part of installing a few pieces was getting the fasteners started. I had to push up on the skids enough to thread into the brackets. Once one was started I could tighten down enough to draw the skid closer for the next fastener install.
Splicing multiple plates together.
Final product.
Total duration was about 3 hours. That’s after I cleaned and prepped the underside. Minimal frustrations, no fabrication required. The skid plates are much thicker than I anticipated.
So far I’m pleased with the quality of the product and ease of installation. The real test is getting out there on the trails.
I’m not sure how susceptible the bolts will be to backing out. I may loctite them or put a dab of RTV on there as a precautionary measure.
