Hard to shift out of park: idle too high

Applies to: RZR, Ranger, Sportsman; Outlander, Maverick; Rancher (Polaris, Can-Am, Honda), CVT machines, all years

Symptoms

  • Selector won't move out of P/N
  • Grinds or clunks into gear
  • Worse when warm
  • Sticks in a gear

Why it happens

If idle is too high the CVT primary clutch partly engages, loading the gear dogs so they won't slide.

How to fix it

  1. Check idle against the manual (usually 1100–1400 rpm) and adjust.
  2. Rock the machine slightly while shifting.
  3. Inspect the primary clutch: weights, springs, belt.
  4. Check and adjust the shift cable or linkage.

Tools and parts

  • Tachometer
  • Screwdriver for idle screw
  • Wrenches for linkage

What the factory service manual covers

Idle spec and adjustment, CVT clutch, shift linkage. The full procedure, specs and wiring diagrams are in the factory service manual for your machine.

Get the factory service manual

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