The Polaris Ranger 570 Crew and 900 are proving themselves at the 2 000ha Deelkraal Wildlife Reserve in the Waterberg in Limpopo, home to a large and diverse population of wildlife.
The 33kW ProStar 570 and the 51kW 900 engines were designed to achieve a combination of high power density, fuel efficiency and easy maintenance.
The new Polaris engine management system (EMS) helps the engine deliver optimal torque and power, plus smooth throttle operation at all speeds and in reverse. In combination with the ProStar engine and special clutch, the EMS also improves fuel economy.
Another important feature is that the Polaris true all-wheel-drive (AWD) engages all four wheels automatically when the vehicle needs more traction and reverts to 2WD when this is not required.
The new vehicles join a fleet that includes a Polaris Sportsman 800EF1 and a Polaris Sportsman 300, all distributed by Smith Power Equipment (SPE).
“The Polaris machines are powerful and reliable, even when worked very hard, and provide a smooth and secure ride even over the most difficult terrain,” says Deelkraal assistant general manager Rachel Hughes. She adds that SPE is “always ready to go the extra mile in service and support”.
By carefully managing the natural vegetation, and wild animal numbers and variety, Deelkraal seeks to ensure a sustainable balance of endemic South African species. The Polaris machines are used to take guests on game drives and hunting safaris, and for general chores.
“There’s a lot to do at Deelkraal and the terrain is often challenging, so it’s essential to choose the right vehicles. Our Polaris machines are life-savers,” says Rachel.
Joe Spencer is the mechanisation editor of Farmer’s Weekly.
