Prepare Your Side-by-Side for Mudding

If you’re the proud owner of a UTV, also known as a side-by-side, you might be tempted to try out different types of terrain. One activity a lot of UTV owners enjoy is mudding! However, before you do that, you’ll need to prep your vehicle’s parts and get some accessories. After all, your side-by-side is not only a prized possession but also a worthy investment. To help you and your machine get ready for the mud, we have put together this informative guide. Read on to learn more!

Seal the Air Box

You’ll need to protect your side-by-side’s internal parts from the mud, which includes your air box, and there are different techniques to accomplish this. One of the most popular is sealing the air box before you go mudding. Inspect all the joints from the engine intake right up to the top of the air box. Make sure that nothing can get inside and create a problem for you. Your air box should always have a lid on top without any holes in it.

More serious riders prefer to get a snorkel kit since they know they’ll be spending time deep in the mud. These kits have extended CVT inlets, extended air intakes, and outlet exhausts. All these features work together to ensure that the important parts of your side-by-side remain dry.

Relocate the Radiator

Another part that needs your attention before you hit the mud is the radiator. Usually, these are mounted above the front rack. If you’re planning to go deep into the mud, you should move the radiator higher up and away from all the muddy water you’ll be passing through. Once you relocate the radiator, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your engine will continue running cool.

Install a Winch

Winches are useful accessories in a variety of situations so you may have already installed one on your side-by-side if you use it often. If you still don’t have one, consider getting one before you go mudding. It’s common for side-by-sides to get stuck in the mud, and having a winch makes it easier to pull it out.

Grease it Up

Remember that your side-by-side relies on several electrical connections to keep it moving. If these connections take on moisture, like water and mud, you should cover them with a layer of dielectric grease. You can do this by unplugging the connector, adding the grease, and then reconnecting.

We hope you’ll find this information useful when you decide to go mudding! If you need parts or accessories for your side-by-side, visit S&N MotorSports in Port Charlotte, FL. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to help you. We welcome all our customers coming from Fort Myers.