Hey guys! So, you're here because you're interested in the 2017 Polaris General FOX shocks, right? Awesome! These shocks are a key component of your off-road machine, and understanding them can seriously improve your ride. We're going to dive deep into everything you need to know about these shocks, from their benefits and how they work, to maintenance tips and potential upgrades. Let's get started!

What Makes the 2017 Polaris General FOX Shocks Special?

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. The 2017 Polaris General came equipped with some pretty sweet shocks from the factory, and they play a vital role in handling rough terrain. Specifically, they were equipped with FOX Performance Series shocks, which are known for their quality and performance. These shocks are a significant upgrade from basic shocks, and they are designed to handle the stresses of off-roading. They are designed to absorb bumps, dips, and jumps, keeping your ride smooth and controlled. These shocks are a crucial element in your Polaris General's suspension system. They ensure a comfortable ride even on the most challenging terrains. The FOX Performance Series shocks are a big deal because they offer a fantastic balance of performance and durability. They are built to withstand the abuse of off-road adventures, and they’ll keep you and your passengers comfortable, whether you're cruising on trails or tackling more aggressive terrain. Think about it: without good shocks, your ride would be a jarring, uncomfortable experience. The 2017 Polaris General with FOX shocks helps prevent this, allowing you to enjoy the ride even when the going gets tough. Another important aspect of the FOX shocks is their adjustability. You can often adjust the preload and compression settings to fine-tune the shocks to your specific needs. This allows you to customize the ride to match the terrain and your driving style. This adjustability is a huge advantage, as it allows you to optimize the suspension for different conditions. Maybe you're carrying a heavy load, or maybe you're hitting some gnarly trails. With adjustable shocks, you can adapt quickly and easily. They help reduce the chances of bottoming out the suspension, which can damage the shocks and other components. By preventing bottoming out, the shocks also improve handling and control. They ensure that the tires maintain contact with the ground, maximizing traction and stability. This is especially important when cornering or navigating uneven surfaces. The FOX shocks also enhance the overall performance of the Polaris General. They improve acceleration, braking, and cornering, making the vehicle more capable and fun to drive. The shocks also contribute to the vehicle's resale value, as they are a desirable feature for potential buyers. In summary, the 2017 Polaris General FOX shocks are a high-quality component that significantly enhances the vehicle's performance, comfort, and durability. They are a must-have for anyone who wants to enjoy off-road adventures. Now, let’s dig a little deeper into how they work and how to maintain them.

How FOX Shocks Work: The Science Behind the Smooth Ride

Ever wonder what goes on inside those magical tubes that make your ride so smooth? The FOX shocks on your 2017 Polaris General are a marvel of engineering. They use a combination of oil, gas, and a clever valve system to absorb impacts and control the movement of your suspension. Inside the shock body, there's a piston that moves up and down as the wheel encounters bumps. The piston forces oil through a series of valves and orifices. The valves control the flow of the oil, creating resistance and damping the movement of the suspension. This resistance is what prevents your Polaris General from bouncing all over the place. The gas, usually nitrogen, is there to help prevent cavitation, which is when bubbles form in the oil. Cavitation can reduce the effectiveness of the shock. By keeping the oil under pressure, the gas helps maintain the shock's performance. The FOX shocks on the 2017 Polaris General are typically oil-filled, gas-charged shocks. This means they use oil for damping and gas to prevent cavitation. This design provides a good balance of performance and durability, making them well-suited for off-road use. The valving system is a crucial aspect of shock performance. It determines how the shock responds to different types of impacts. The valves are designed to control the flow of oil, allowing the shock to absorb bumps and control the movement of the suspension. Some shocks have adjustable valving, allowing you to fine-tune the ride to match the terrain and your driving style. They can adjust the compression and rebound damping. Compression damping controls how the shock behaves when it's compressed, while rebound damping controls how it behaves when it returns to its original position. By adjusting these settings, you can fine-tune the ride quality and handling of your Polaris General. The FOX shocks are a sophisticated system that provides a smooth and controlled ride. They absorb impacts, control the movement of the suspension, and prevent the vehicle from bouncing all over the place. The gas charge prevents cavitation and maintains the shock's performance. The valving system controls the flow of oil, allowing you to fine-tune the ride to match the terrain and your driving style. Understanding how your shocks work can help you appreciate their importance and allow you to make informed decisions about maintenance and upgrades. Let's move on and talk about keeping your FOX shocks in tip-top shape!

Maintaining Your 2017 Polaris General FOX Shocks: Tips and Tricks

Alright, so you know how awesome those FOX shocks are, but how do you keep them performing at their best? Regular maintenance is key, guys! Here's a breakdown of how to care for your 2017 Polaris General FOX shocks:

Inspection is Key

First things first, regular visual inspections are a must. Look for any signs of damage, such as leaks, dents, or corrosion. Check the shock shafts for any scratches or wear. These can damage the seals and lead to leaks. Also, pay attention to the shock mounts and bushings. Make sure they are in good condition and that the shocks are securely attached to the vehicle. A good visual check can catch potential problems early on, preventing more serious issues down the road. This also includes listening for any unusual noises while driving. These noises could indicate a problem with the shocks. Check the shocks regularly, especially after off-road adventures. The more you use your Polaris General, the more frequently you should inspect the shocks. Remember, it's always better to catch a problem early than to let it escalate.

Cleaning and Lubrication

Keeping your shocks clean is another important step in maintaining them. After each ride, especially if you've been in muddy or dusty conditions, clean the shocks with water and a mild soap. Avoid using high-pressure washers directly on the shocks, as this can force water and contaminants into the seals. Once the shocks are clean, lubricate the shock shafts with a silicone-based lubricant. This will help prevent corrosion and keep the seals in good condition. Be sure to wipe off any excess lubricant to prevent it from attracting dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help extend the life of your shocks and keep them performing at their best.

Checking for Leaks

Leaks are a major red flag. If you notice any oil around the shock body or on the shock shaft, it means the seals are failing. Leaks can reduce the shock's damping ability and lead to poor performance. If you see a leak, it’s time to take action. You can try tightening the shock's fittings or replacing the seals. However, in most cases, a leaking shock will need to be rebuilt or replaced. Don't ignore leaks, as they can cause more damage to your suspension system.

Adjusting and Tuning

If your shocks are adjustable, take the time to learn how to adjust them to suit your driving style and the terrain. Start by setting the preload, which affects the ride height and the initial feel of the suspension. You can also adjust the compression and rebound damping to fine-tune the shock's response to bumps and dips. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for you. If you are not familiar with the adjustment process, it is recommended that you consult a professional.

Professional Servicing

Even with regular maintenance, your FOX shocks will eventually need professional servicing. FOX recommends that their shocks be serviced at regular intervals, typically every 50-100 hours of use, or at least annually. During servicing, a professional will disassemble the shocks, inspect all the components, and replace any worn or damaged parts. They will also recharge the shocks with nitrogen and refill them with fresh oil. This service will help maintain the shock's performance and extend its lifespan. Don't skip this important step; it will help keep your Polaris General riding smoothly for years to come. By following these tips, you can keep your 2017 Polaris General FOX shocks in great shape, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride for years to come. Now, let’s explore some potential upgrades.

Upgrading Your 2017 Polaris General FOX Shocks: Taking it to the Next Level

Okay, so you're already rocking the FOX shocks and they're pretty good, but maybe you're looking for even better performance, or maybe your old shocks are worn out. Let's talk about some upgrade options.

Rebuilding vs. Replacing

One option is to rebuild your existing shocks. This involves disassembling the shocks, replacing worn parts (like seals and bushings), and refilling them with fresh oil and gas. Rebuilding can be a cost-effective way to restore your shocks to their original performance. However, it's important to have them rebuilt by a qualified professional who has experience with FOX shocks. Another option is to replace your shocks with new ones. This is a good choice if your existing shocks are severely damaged or if you are looking for a significant performance upgrade. There are several aftermarket shock options available for the 2017 Polaris General, offering features like adjustable compression and rebound damping. When choosing new shocks, consider your driving style and the type of terrain you typically ride on. The type of riding you do will help you determine the best upgrade for your needs. Do you go on fast trail rides, or do you prefer rock crawling? Understanding this will help you choose the right shock. It's often more cost-effective to replace the entire shock than to rebuild it. Before deciding between rebuilding and replacing, weigh the costs and benefits of each option. Rebuilding is a more affordable option, but it will not improve the performance of your shocks. Replacing will provide an improvement in performance, but it is the most expensive. Deciding which route to take depends on your budget and needs.

Aftermarket Options

If you're looking to significantly improve your suspension, there are numerous aftermarket shock options available. Many companies offer upgraded FOX shocks, with features like adjustable compression and rebound damping, larger bodies for increased oil capacity, and improved internal components for better performance. Some popular aftermarket brands include Elka Suspension, King Shocks, and Walker Evans Racing. These shocks often provide a more refined ride and better handling than the stock shocks. However, be prepared to spend a bit more money. When choosing aftermarket shocks, consider your budget, the type of terrain you ride on, and your driving style. Do your research and read reviews to find the shocks that best suit your needs. Do not be afraid to seek advice from fellow riders or suspension specialists to ensure you make the right choice. Consider the adjustability of the shocks and whether it meets your needs. Look for shocks with adjustable compression and rebound damping, allowing you to fine-tune the ride to match the terrain and your driving style. By choosing the right aftermarket shocks, you can significantly improve the performance and handling of your 2017 Polaris General.

Custom Tuning

For the ultimate in suspension performance, consider custom tuning. Many suspension shops offer custom tuning services, where they will adjust your shocks to match your specific vehicle, driving style, and the type of terrain you ride on. This can involve adjusting the internal valving, the spring rates, and the shock settings to optimize the ride. Custom tuning is an excellent option for serious off-road enthusiasts who want to get the most out of their suspension. However, it is the most expensive option. This is a great choice if you prioritize performance and are looking for a personalized suspension setup. Regardless of your upgrade choice, make sure you take the time to properly install and adjust the new shocks. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, consider having a professional install them. Investing in quality suspension components and proper setup will make a world of difference in your off-road experience. By upgrading your shocks, you can transform the ride quality, handling, and overall performance of your 2017 Polaris General. Now you are ready to hit the trails!

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Even with top-notch shocks, you might run into a few issues. Let’s look at some common problems you might encounter with your 2017 Polaris General FOX shocks and how to troubleshoot them:

Leaking Shocks

As mentioned before, leaks are a common issue. If you spot oil around the shock body or shaft, it likely means a seal has failed. Try tightening the fittings, but if the leak persists, you'll need to rebuild or replace the shock. Leaking shocks can cause a loss of damping and potentially damage other suspension components.

Noisy Shocks

If you hear clunking, squeaking, or other unusual noises coming from your shocks, it could indicate a problem. Check the shock mounts and bushings for wear or damage. Make sure the shocks are securely attached to the vehicle. If the noise persists, it could be an internal issue, and a rebuild or replacement may be needed.

Ride Quality Issues

If the ride feels harsh, bouncy, or unstable, the shocks may not be performing correctly. Check the shock settings to ensure they are properly adjusted for the terrain and your driving style. If the shocks are old or worn, they may not provide the proper damping. If this happens, a rebuild or replacement is the best solution.

Bottoming Out

Bottoming out occurs when the suspension compresses fully and the shock bottoms out. If you frequently experience bottoming out, the shocks may not be providing enough damping or support. Consider adjusting the preload or upgrading to heavier-duty shocks. This can damage the shocks and lead to other suspension issues.

Fading

Fading is when the shocks lose their damping ability as they heat up during use. This can result in a harsh ride. This can occur when the shocks are pushed too hard. This is normal during aggressive driving or on rough terrain. Allowing the shocks to cool down can often restore performance. However, if fading is a frequent issue, it may be time for an upgrade. Properly diagnosing the issue is crucial before taking any action. If you're unsure about the cause of a problem, consult a professional mechanic. They can diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action. When troubleshooting, always prioritize safety and take precautions to protect yourself and your vehicle.

Conclusion: Keeping Your Ride Smooth

So there you have it, guys! We've covered a lot about the 2017 Polaris General FOX shocks, from how they work and how to maintain them, to upgrade options and common problems. These shocks are a crucial part of your off-road experience, and understanding them will help you keep your ride smooth and enjoyable. Remember to inspect your shocks regularly, keep them clean and lubricated, and address any issues promptly. If you’re looking to improve performance, consider upgrading to aftermarket shocks or having them professionally tuned. With proper care and maintenance, your 2017 Polaris General FOX shocks will provide years of reliable service and keep you conquering the trails with confidence. Now get out there and enjoy the ride!