If you’re searching for a RZR engine timing guide, you’re in the right place—because this isn’t a step where you guess.

Get it right, and your engine runs smooth and strong.
Get it wrong, and you’re tearing it back down.

At REV6, we’ve timed and rebuilt thousands of Powersports engines. And one thing is always true:

Precision matters.

This step-by-step RZR engine timing guide will walk you through the correct process for Polaris RZR, Ranger, and Sportsman 600/700/800cc engines so you can get it done right the first time.

Why Engine Timing Matters on RZR, Ranger, and Sportsman Engines

Engine timing controls how your valves open and close in relation to piston movement.

If your timing is off—even slightly—you can run into:

• Poor performance
• Hard starting
• Loss of compression
• Internal engine damage

That’s why following a proper RZR engine timing guide is critical during any rebuild.

Camshaft Gear Removal Tips (RZR Engine Timing Guide Step 1)

Removing the camshaft gear is one of the trickiest parts of this process.

Inside the gear are springs that create tension and hold everything in place. If you’re not careful, those springs can pop out—and now you’ve got a bigger problem.

Here’s how to remove it correctly:

• Remove the 13mm bolt from the camshaft gear
• Thread that same bolt back into one of the gear holes
• This keeps the internal springs from popping out

Pro tip:
This small step will save you time and headaches during your RZR engine timing process.

Camshaft Gear Alignment (Most Important Step)

If there’s one place people mess up, it’s here.

Each camshaft gear has:

• An outer dot
• An inner timing mark

Both must line up perfectly.

If they don’t:

• Your cam timing will be off
• Valve timing will be incorrect
• Your engine may not run properly

Take your time—this step defines your entire engine timing setup.

Step-by-Step RZR Engine Timing Guide

Step 1: Install the Oil Pump

Start by installing the oil pump.

There are no timing marks here, so you can install it without worrying about alignment.

Step 2: Install the Balance Shaft Gear

Now timing begins to matter.

You’ll see:

• A timing mark on the crankshaft gear
• A timing mark on the balance shaft gear

These must line up perfectly.

Step 3: Align Timing Marks on All Gears

Next, install the camshaft gear.

Make sure:

• Camshaft gear dots are aligned
• Balance shaft gear marks match
• All timing indicators line up

There is no “close enough” here—everything must match exactly.

Step 4: Reinstall and Torque the Camshaft Gear

Once everything is aligned:

• Reinstall the camshaft gear bolt
• Tighten it securely

Double-check timing marks before final torque.

Common Mistakes When Timing a RZR Engine

Even experienced builders make these mistakes:

• Misaligned timing dots
• Forgetting the spring retention trick
• Rushing final assembly
• Not verifying alignment before closing

Following a proven RZR engine timing guide helps avoid these costly errors.

Final Timing Check Before Reassembly

Before closing up the engine:

• Rotate the engine by hand
• Ensure smooth movement
• Confirm timing marks stay aligned

If anything feels off—stop and fix it now.

Why Proper Timing Extends Engine Life

Correct timing ensures:

• Smooth engine operation
• Balanced internal movement
• Consistent performance
• Long-term reliability

Incorrect timing?
You’re back to square one.

Need Parts for Your RZR Engine Rebuild?

If you’re working through this RZR engine timing guide, you’re likely already in a rebuild.

Browse UTV engine rebuild kits and internal parts

Learn how to choose the right engine rebuild kit for your machine

Talk to our team:
https://www.rev6sports.com/contact-us/

Learn about the process:
https://www.rev6sports.com/help-center/

Watch the Full RZR Engine Timing Guide Video

Want to see it step-by-step?

FAQ – RZR Engine Timing Guide