Can't afford a $20K Polaris? Replace it with a Harbor Freight engine in a Chinese UTV.

Can't afford a $20K Polaris? Replace it with a Harbor Freight engine in a Chinese UTV.

      Robot Cantina via YouTube

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      I enjoy side-by-sides as much as anyone else, but they can be quite pricey. I've tested several that exceed $30,000, and the most expensive one I've worked with is the $52,000 Polaris Ranger XD 1500. It was certainly useful, but something like this Chinese UTV with a Harbor Freight Predator engine swap is much more within my financial reach.

      This project could only be the brainchild of Robot Cantina on YouTube, whose builds have been showcased multiple times here on The Drive. The host, affectionately called Jimbo, has engineered some remarkable projects—from a diesel-electric golf cart with dual engines to a supercharged Kubota-powered Honda Insight. This latest experiment is in a similar spirit, combining a Hisun UTV with a 420cc single-cylinder engine.

      Jimbo found the UTV after it had been parked for years. He noted that it experienced a significant engine failure early in its life (not a surprise). The idea of using a Predator engine to power the UTV isn't far-fetched in theory, but keeping the 4x4 functionality added another level of difficulty. Fortunately, he has the engineering skills and experience with projects like these.

      The first task was to create an 8-by-8-inch adapter plate to serve as the base for the engine mount. Jimbo drilled an 85-millimeter hole in it to accommodate the driveshaft bearing support. He also crafted a bracket from 1/4-inch-thick 6061 aluminum to secure the driveshaft bearing collar. To elevate the engine and ensure enough clearance under the driveshaft for connecting to the front wheels, he utilized some 3/16-inch angle iron, but ultimately, he managed to get it all done. A few custom spacers helped align everything as well.

      With everything securely in place, it was time to test the UTV in the yard. Adjusting the idle proved challenging due to the engine’s built-in compression relief device, but for this test, it was acceptable. The new engine worked well with the Hisun’s stock CVT after fitting a Comet 780 series clutch, and even in high range, the 13-horsepower Predator had enough power to kick up some dirt. Impressive!

      I’m noticing running examples of these Hisun UTVs listed for $3,500 on Facebook Marketplace. If you can find one with a broken engine, you could likely get it for a fraction of the cost. The Predator 420 engines are currently available for $329.99, and even with rising material costs, you would still be significantly below the price of a standard domestic UTV. Admittedly, it would have a fraction of the power, but just think about how rewarding it would be to say you accomplished this?

      Have a tip or question for the author? Reach out directly: caleb@thedrive.com

Can't afford a $20K Polaris? Replace it with a Harbor Freight engine in a Chinese UTV. Can't afford a $20K Polaris? Replace it with a Harbor Freight engine in a Chinese UTV. Can't afford a $20K Polaris? Replace it with a Harbor Freight engine in a Chinese UTV. Can't afford a $20K Polaris? Replace it with a Harbor Freight engine in a Chinese UTV. Can't afford a $20K Polaris? Replace it with a Harbor Freight engine in a Chinese UTV.

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Can't afford a $20K Polaris? Replace it with a Harbor Freight engine in a Chinese UTV.

As demonstrated by this DIY enthusiast, it is possible to make it function with the original 4x4 setup.