Front Receiver Hitch [Item #: 2889657] Install

[Nitz]

So I have not seen much chatter on this component. My dad and I recently installed the Polaris Front Receiver Hitch [Item #: 2889657] on my 2025 RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar Edition Ultimate.

It is a clean look after install and functions well. I do not anticipate any interference with my plow frame (of which I am not yet in possession). Quite happy with this purchase. I get that many/most owners would have to look for a use for this front hitch, but at $85 USD it is IMO a great add-on for this workhorse of a UTV. I might even argue it belongs on the "I cannot believe this was not included..." list.

The front hitch installation was relatively straight-forward. It took us just under two hours to complete in my parent's barn (no lift). We probably could have had it done in under an hour, however re-aligning the front bumper for its reinstallation took many iterations. That was definitely the most time-consuming task.

A few notes based on our experience -->

• Wrench clearance is tight all around, worse near the winch (which stays in place).
• The instructions neglect to list this in "Tools Required", but a 15 mm combination or ratcheting wrench will be needed along with a 15 mm socket/extension setup. A good work/flood light and a good small flashlight or similar will be needed.
• The P/N 2889657 installation instructions are of no help here, but the Front Bumper LED Aux Lights' harness was not a problem. Took a few photos for harness routing, simply disconnected the plugs from each light, cut the (6) zip ties holding the harness in place [careful not to cut the loom or wiring], and tucked the harness away on the vehicle side.
  • Later, for reinstallation - we used (6) new zip ties with the existing cable tie mounts. Referenced our photos to ensure proper harness routing. And of course re-connected the plugs to each light's receptacle.
• We considered rigging something up to lift the Front Bumper. I ended up just lifting/supporting it myself as needed for removal and reinstallation.
  • I am 45 and not in the best shape, but managed it with no issue - suggest taking a good look at it before proceeding in this manner.
• We let the winch rope out quite a ways, and then just set the Front Bumper on the floor.
• The specified 16 ft-lbsdid not seem like enough for the front hitch bolts.
  • I have spent years in torque-centric manufacturing, and I generally follow torque specs.
  • I would not presume to tell you what to do here, but we did not follow this step to the letter.
• The real challenge - getting all the bolt holes to align upon Front Bumper reinstall
  • This was a real bear. I was starting to think we trashed something when tearing it down.
  • What seemed to work best, for whatever reason, was to brace the bumper up and then crawl under the vehicle - and push straight up toward the ceiling while my dad aligned one corner at a time.

We immediately tested it out by pulling an empty hay wagon out of the shed and then re-parking the wagon in its tight spot. I think a skid steer probably does a better job for this use, but this is a nice option to have. We also plan to use this front hitch to pull/push/position a towable boom lift.

 

[Big Red]

Thank you for a very detailed write-up!

 

[Mr.C]

I agree, I have one on my XD and had one on my XP. I’ve used mine a few times on both machines. I also agree, for the cost, totally worth it. It doesn’t interfere with the plow mount.