Compatibility/Hitch Options
FOR THE PLOW WITH HITCH KIT INCLUDED
Installation Video for Polaris
GroundHog MAX Hitch Kit - Anchoring / Bracing
ATTACH WITH BOLT ON/CLAMP ON ASSEMBLY
ATTACHMENT
1) Find a level spot and carefully back your rear tires up on 4” ramps (or a 4” alternative, like a piece of 4x4 wood that spans the 2 rear tires). Be advised that if you use a taller ramp it makes it harder to determine a proper depth setting for the plow. If ramps are not available or impractical, it is acceptable to back the rear tires onto a sturdy surface that elevates them by 4 inches. A section of 4x4 wood is a good example of an improvised lift. Be sure to follow all safety steps in order to prevent injury. It may be easier to leave a 4x4 block at your food plot). DO NOT just lift up the machine’s rear end to install. This does not work and will only stretch out your suspension.
2014-2018 HONDA RANCHERS AND FOREMAN
Rancher and Foreman owners both should NOT buy our GroundHog MAX Kit version of the plow. They should buy the NO KIT version and then buy an aftermarket hitch by Strong Made (RH119). Click this link - https://strongmade.com/rh119-rear-receiver-hitch-for-honda-foreman-2014-2019-and-rancher-2014-2019.html
The GroundHog MAX Receiver Kit will be attached in 2 places. SEE pictures H1- 2- 3- 4 for most work/ranch related Hondas.
INSTALL NOTE - These hose/pipe clamps and tie wraps/straps discussed may be an easy way to attach BOTH older and newer Hondas. Not included in box.
ALL POLARIS- the main anchor point is in the (rear) of the receiver tube and attaches to the machine by either:
A) Utilizing a ¾” bolt through the ¾” utility hole (OLDER TYPE FRAMES older than 2008).
**********************
OLDER MODEL POLARIS - 2006 and older
This is for an “older model” polaris frame (2006 and older). See pictures P1 and P2. The following steps are if your Polaris "rear main anchor point' has a 3/4 utility hole (where a ball hitch goes).
***************************
NEWER MODEL POLARIS - 2007 & NEWER
Click here for a video showing an installation of a GroundHog MAX with Hitch Kit on a new model Polaris (on a manufacturer's existing weak 1 1/4' square receiver tube.) This should work on most of the newer Polaris as well as machines with this type of frame setup.
If your polaris has an existing 1 ¼" square receiver, this is a “newer model type” different polaris frame. See pictures P3, P4, and P5 for Polaris that have a weak factory 1 ¼” square receiver hitch assembly in back (not a utility hole). Remember try to keep the tube as close to the rear of the unit as possible without interfering with anything.
PLOW WITHOUT HITCH KIT
Here are links to the best sites we've found for strong, aftermarket 2-inch receiver hitches:
Here are some other manufacturers we've found. One of these may make a hitch for your ATV/UTV.
Option #3 - Using the Groundhog MAX kit as Your Bolt-on Assembly Receiver
Groundhog MAX kit can convert your existing 3/4" utility hole or weak 1 1/4" square receiver over to a strong square receiver. Normally a bolt-on install, this hitch kit fits for "work/ranch type" Honda, Polaris, and some others.
If you decide to purchase the Groundhog MAX hitch kit, see the tips below for installation:
Option #4 - DIY
If you determine you have to improvise and take extra steps not covered by using our Groundhog MAX bolt-on kit, or if you cannot find a strong aftermarket kit available for your year/make/model, you might have to do it yourself or go to a fabricator. Be sure to keep the hitch as close to the rear as possible while maintaining clearance.
Option #5 - Take it to a Fabrication Shop or a Good Welder
Normally they have the "know how" and materials on hand to install a hitch. You may need to provide the strong/square hitch for them. Most fab shops can normally provide bracing and install a braced hitch for $50+.
The plow has "up pressure," not tongue weight, so brace accordingly. Tack welds and strategically placed braces that offset "up pressure" work well.
Keep in mind that normally our long receiver tube can be drilled, notched, etc. without making the tube too weak for use. Our kit is heavy duty 1/4" wall steel. This makes our tube very storng. Use common sense and/or call us.
CUSTOMER PROVIDED HARDWARE MAY OR MAY NOT BE REQUIRED. (Braces, hose/pipe, clamps, spacers, etc.)