Installing a power flip windshield on a Polaris RZR Pro R 4 can significantly enhance both the functionality and comfort of the vehicle, particularly for off-road enthusiasts and professional operators. The SuperATV MaxDrive Power Flip Windshield is a popular upgrade due to its ease of use, robust construction, and compatibility with various Polaris models. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to installing the windshield based on the detailed process outlined in the SuperATV installation video. The instructions are designed to be clear, practical, and precise, ensuring that users can complete the installation with confidence and minimal assistance.
Preparation and Initial Steps
Before beginning the installation, it is essential to gather all the components included in the SuperATV MaxDrive Power Flip Windshield kit. These typically include the windshield itself, mounting clamps, bushings, hardware (screws, nuts, washers), a wiring harness, and a pulse plug adaptor. It is also important to ensure that the vehicle is in a stable, level position and that the area around the machine is clean and free of debris to avoid interference during installation.
The first step involves accessing the interior of the machine. The user should locate the center cubby hole and lift it open. This will reveal a tray, which may contain a USB port if installed. If so, the USB should be pulled through the hole in the tray and set aside to avoid interference during the installation process. To prevent the door from falling during the installation, it is recommended to place an object underneath the door to hold it in position.
Mounting the Windshield Clamps
With the interior prepared, the next step is to install the mounting clamps on the cage of the RZR. These clamps are designed to secure the upper portion of the windshield to the vehicle's frame. It is crucial to align the clamps correctly: the flat section of the clamp should face toward the front of the machine, while the bent section should face inward. This orientation ensures that the clamps provide stable support and do not obstruct the movement of the windshield.
If the RZR is equipped with a roof, it should be lifted and moved out of the way to allow access to the installation points. Once the clamps are in place, the user can proceed to align the top holes of the windshield with the clamps. At this stage, it is important to use the long M6 Allen-headed hardware and two Nylock nuts provided in the kit to secure the windshield to the clamps. The hardware should be loosely tightened at this point to allow for minor adjustments.
Installing the Seals
The SuperATV MaxDrive Power Flip Windshield kit includes two types of seals: a straight seal and a 90-degree bulb seal. These seals are essential for ensuring a secure and weather-resistant fit. The 90-degree bulb seal is intended for the upper portion of the windshield and should be oriented with the bulb portion facing inward, toward the cage of the machine. The straight seal is used along the lower portion of the windshield and will come into contact with the dashboard. Care must be taken to apply the seals correctly, ensuring they are aligned with the contours of the windshield and cut to the appropriate length to avoid excess material.
Once the seals are in place, the windshield can be positioned in the correct orientation. The user should verify that the seals are properly seated and that the windshield fits snugly against the dashboard and cage. This step is critical for ensuring a smooth operation of the power flip feature and minimizing wind noise and water ingress.
Installing the Bushings and Actuators
The actuators are the mechanical components responsible for the power flip functionality of the windshield. These actuators require the installation of bushings on both the upper and lower mounting points. The bushings help reduce friction and ensure smooth movement of the windshield. The installation process involves sliding the bushings onto the designated mounting points and securing them with the provided hardware.
After the bushings are installed, the actuators can be attached to the windshield and the side brackets mounted on the cage. The hardware for this step includes the same M6 Allen-headed screws and Nylock nuts used earlier. It is important to maintain a loose fit at this stage to allow for adjustments and proper alignment before fully tightening the components. The user should apply tension to the bracket to keep it in place while securing the hardware, ensuring that the actuator is correctly positioned and aligned.
Wiring and Electrical Connections
One of the more technical aspects of the installation involves the wiring harness and the pulse plug adaptor. The wiring harness connects the power flip system to the vehicle's electrical system, providing the necessary power for the actuator. The harness includes a fuse, a red hot wire connected to a keyed-on power source, and a ground wire. Additionally, the harness is equipped with a plug that connects to the rocker switch.
To prepare the wiring, the user should strip the insulation from the ends of the wires and connect them using butt connectors. The pulse plug adaptor is used to interface the wiring harness with the vehicle's electrical system. The red wire from the harness is connected to the orange wire on the pulse plug, while the black wire is connected to the brown wire. The unused red wire from the pulse plug can be cut and trimmed to avoid interference.
After the wiring is prepared, it should be secured and routed to avoid tangling or interference with other components. The user can use zip ties to bundle the wires and keep them organized. It is important to ensure that the wiring is not crimped or bent excessively, as this can affect the performance of the power flip system.
Final Adjustments and Testing
Once all components are installed and the wiring is connected, the user should perform a final check to ensure that all hardware is properly tightened and that the windshield is aligned correctly. The upper clamps should be tightened to secure the windshield in place, while the lower portion should remain slightly adjustable to allow for smooth movement. The user should also verify that the seals are in place and that the windshield is seated correctly against the dashboard.
Before testing the power flip feature, the user should reconnect any factory components that were disconnected during the installation process, such as the speaker plug. This ensures that the electrical system is fully functional and that the power flip feature can be tested without interference.
To test the power flip windshield, the user should activate the system and observe the movement of the windshield. The windshield should open and close smoothly without resistance or misalignment. If any issues are encountered, the user should refer back to the installation steps to verify that all components are correctly installed and adjusted.
Conclusion
The installation of the SuperATV MaxDrive Power Flip Windshield on a Polaris RZR Pro R 4 is a detailed but manageable process that requires attention to detail and a basic understanding of mechanical and electrical components. By following the steps outlined in this guide, users can successfully install the windshield and enjoy the enhanced functionality it provides. The power flip feature allows for quick and easy access to the cabin while maintaining a secure and weather-resistant seal when the windshield is closed.
It is important to note that the installation process may vary slightly depending on the specific model and configuration of the RZR. Users should always consult the official installation guide and verify that all components are compatible with their vehicle. Additionally, if any uncertainties arise during the installation, users are encouraged to seek assistance from a qualified technician or contact SuperATV for further support.