Six Wheels, No Limits
The Polaris Ranger 6×6 was intentionally designed to be fast, handle well, and easily tackle off-road terrain. The idea was to provide more capacity to haul more payload than other side-by-side models on the market. There’s adequate space to carry the tools and building materials needed for tackling daily chores, stacking firewood, and repairing fences.
Edgar Hetteen, one of Polaris’s founders, deserves credit for the Ranger 6×6 concept. Hetteen loved the 6×6 configuration but wanted a version where he could drive beside his wife.
The company explored four initial concepts, but internal debates raged about whether passengers would ride inside the vehicle and if there should be handlebar steering or a steering wheel. In either case, designers were adamant that the Ranger 6×6 had to be fun to drive, like its already successful Sportsman cousin.
The answer was to produce a ride-inside steering-wheel model that eventually became the first Polaris Ranger 6×6. Introduced in 1999, the Ranger 6×6 was a purpose-built six-wheel-drive off-road vehicle with a top speed of 41 mph, excellent ride characteristics, genuine off-road capability, and a payload capacity that was bigger than any other utility vehicle on the market.
It was a unique and groundbreaking machine that remained part of the Polaris line until 2014, when the company halted production. It remains popular with collectors and enthusiasts seeking a workhorse that can do nearly anything.
Power for a Variety of Chores
The 2013 Polaris Ranger 6×6 has a 760-cc longitudinal twin four-stroke engine producing 40 horsepower. The fuel-injected electric-start motor fires up quickly and runs on regular pump gas. Power is delivered to the on-demand six-wheel or rear four-wheel drive system via a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with high, low, and reverse range settings.
Polaris states that the Ranger 6×6 can provide 50 percent more traction than other utility vehicles thanks to the “Polaris On-Demand” six-wheel drive system. This system senses when wheels lose traction and transfers torque to the wheels where power is needed. When required, the six-wheel system can be quickly engaged or disengaged via a dash-mount lever for on-the-fly traction.
The standard rear power tilt cargo dump box and 39-gallon lockable storage compartment offer users massive storage and hauling capacities. The rear dump box/bed can hold up to 1,250 pounds and measures 54 inches wide by 42.5 inches long—enough to haul a 4×8 sheet of plywood.
In addition to the extensive cargo-carrying capabilities, the standard rear UTV hitch allows users to tow up to 2,000 pounds of cargo and supplies. This Ranger can also accept a front-mount UTV winch.
The Ranger 6×6’s ride is handled by fully independent double A-arm front and rear suspension with 9.6 and 9.0 inches of front and rear suspension, respectively. Combined with the six 25-inch balloon ATV tires mounted to steel wheels, the Ranger 6×6 can handle uneven terrain. A tilt steering wheel, standard power steering, steel frame, and bench-style seats with UTV safety belts add comfort and safety.
If you’re looking for an all-around workhorse utility vehicle that won’t break the bank, the Ranger 6×6 is worth consideration. While this one is no longer available, eBay Motors has a robust market of utility UTVs to tackle hard work.
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