Let’s Talk About Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount
Winter in northern Wisconsin isn’t just a season; it’s a lifestyle. We measure snowfall in feet, not inches, and a reliable ATV plow is less of a luxury and more of a necessity. After years of wrestling with clunky, front-mount plows on my Polaris Sportsman 570, I started exploring alternative mounting systems. That’s when I stumbled upon the Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount, promising a frame-mounted solution and smoother plowing.
My biggest pain point with traditional plows was the constant stress on the front suspension of my Sportsman. I needed something that distributed the plowing force more evenly. I wanted a system that wouldn’t turn my ATV into a bucking bronco every time I hit a patch of packed snow.
The Extreme Max mount arrived in a surprisingly compact box, given its purpose. My initial impression was of solid, well-engineered components; the steel was thick and the welds looked clean and robust. Compared to the universal front-mount I had been using previously, the difference was night and day – this felt like a purpose-built, heavy-duty piece of equipment. I had considered a competitor’s similar frame-mount plow system, but the Extreme Max was more reasonably priced and, frankly, looked more durable in the online photos. My first thought was, “This might actually solve my winter woes.”
Real-World Testing: Putting Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
The real test came after installation, naturally. I mounted the Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount to my Sportsman and hooked it up to my existing Extreme Max UniPlow blade. The first snowfall of the season provided the perfect opportunity to test it. I used it to clear my long, gravel driveway and a few paths around my property.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The plow felt more stable, and the ATV handled significantly better. The plowing force felt distributed along the frame, making the whole operation much smoother.
Extended Use & Reliability
Now, several months and multiple snowstorms later, the Extreme Max mount has proven its worth. It’s held up remarkably well, showing no signs of bending or cracking, despite some serious abuse clearing heavy, wet snow and even the occasional ice patch. I regularly inspect the mounting points and hardware, but everything remains tight and secure.
Maintaining the mount is surprisingly simple; a quick spray with WD-40 after each use keeps rust at bay. Compared to my old front-mount system, which constantly needed adjustments and repairs, the Extreme Max has been a dream. It definitely outperforms my expectations, providing a stable and reliable plowing experience that reduces stress on both my ATV and myself.
Breaking Down the Features of Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount
Specifications
The Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount is specifically designed for Polaris Sportsman 570 models. It attaches to the ATV frame behind the wheels, which is a key feature for distributing plowing force. It comes with all necessary mounting hardware, and is exclusively compatible with the Extreme Max UniPlow system. The frame mounting location transfers the force much better than front or mid mount alternatives.
The mount’s steel construction ensures durability, and it’s finished with a black powder coat for rust resistance. The unit is backed by a one-year limited warranty.
Performance & Functionality
The Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount excels at its primary function: providing a stable and efficient platform for plowing snow. The frame-mounted design dramatically improves handling compared to front-mounted plows. It minimizes front-end dive and reduces stress on the ATV’s suspension. The improved weight distribution also enhances traction, making it easier to push through deep or heavy snow. The reduction in bounce and sway is significant.
The design is well thought out, but I wish the instructions were a little clearer. However, the performance more than makes up for this minor quibble. It meets and even exceeds expectations by providing a smoother, more controlled plowing experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount is impressive. The steel is thick and robust, and the welds are clean and strong. While the mount itself isn’t particularly ergonomic (it’s bolted to the frame, after all), its impact on the ATV’s handling is what matters.
There’s a slight learning curve involved in the initial installation. Once it’s on, however, you’ll likely never need to remove it, further reducing the long-term hassle.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount is built to last. I expect it to provide many years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the moving parts will help prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. I would recommend an undercoating spray if you are operating in a very high salt environment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount is designed to work exclusively with the Extreme Max UniPlow blade system. While there are no direct customization options for the mount itself, the UniPlow system offers various blade sizes and accessories to suit different needs. Check for a compatible winch system on your ATV to lift and lower the blade. The UniPlow system is not cross-compatible with other brands.
Pros and Cons of Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount
Pros
- Frame-mounted design significantly improves handling and reduces stress on the ATV’s suspension.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Relatively easy to install with basic tools.
- Provides a smoother, more controlled plowing experience.
- Great value for the price compared to other frame-mounted systems.
Cons
- Exclusively compatible with Extreme Max UniPlow blades.
- Instruction manual could be clearer and more detailed.
Who Should Buy Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount?
This mount is perfect for Polaris Sportsman 570 owners who frequently plow snow and want a more stable and efficient system. It is ideal for those who live in areas with heavy snowfall and need a reliable solution for clearing driveways, paths, or small properties. Anyone who currently owns a UniPlow and just bought a Sportsman 570, or wants to use the plow on multiple ATVs, would greatly benefit from a second mount.
Those who only occasionally plow snow or who own ATVs other than the Polaris Sportsman 570 should skip this product. A must-have accessory would be a good quality winch to easily lift and lower the plow blade.
Conclusion on Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount
The Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount is a game-changer for anyone who plows snow with a Polaris Sportsman 570. It provides a significant improvement in handling and reduces stress on the ATV, making plowing a much more comfortable and efficient task.
The price is definitely justified by the improved performance and durability compared to traditional front-mounted plows. I would highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable and effective snow plowing solution for their Sportsman 570.
Don’t let winter get you down! Upgrade your snow plowing experience with the Extreme Max 5500.5088 Polaris Sportsman 570 Uniplow Mount and take control of the snow.