How to Install Rear Radius Rods on Can-Am Maverick X3

Quick Answer

Replacing the rear radius rods on a Can-Am Maverick X3 requires lifting the rear, removing the factory arms, and installing a reinforced aftermarket kit like the 72" Rear Radius Rod Kit for X3 / X3 MAX. Follow the steps below to avoid alignment issues and ensure proper bushing adjustment.

Installation Steps

1. 1. Lift and Secure the Vehicle: Park on level ground, chock the front wheels, and lift the rear of the Maverick X3 with a floor jack. Place jack stands under the frame rails behind the rear wheels. Lower the jack slightly so the stands support the weight. The rear axle should hang freely. Common mistake: lifting by the axle tube can damage the differential housing. Always lift by the frame.
2. 2. Remove the Rear Wheels and Tires: Use a 15mm socket to remove the lug nuts and pull the rear wheels off. This gives you clear access to the radius rod mounting bolts on both sides. Checkpoint: set the wheels aside in a safe spot so they don't get scratched or damaged.
3. 3. Remove the Factory Radius Rods: Apply penetrating oil to the radius rod bolts at the frame and axle ends. Use an 18mm socket and wrench to remove the bolts. Support the axle with a jack if needed to relieve tension. Slide the factory rod out. Repeat on the other side. Common mistake: not supporting the axle can cause the brake line or shock to bind. Use a jack under the axle tube for support.
4. 4. Install the New Radius Rod Kit: Position the new radius rod (e.g., the 72" Rear Radius Rod Kit) so the adjustable bushings face the axle side. Insert the bolts through the frame bracket first, then the axle bracket. Hand-tighten the nuts. Do not fully torque yet. Repeat for the opposite side. Checkpoint: ensure the bushings are oriented correctly per the kit instructions—some have a specific front/rear orientation.
5. 5. Adjust the Bushings for Alignment: With the vehicle still lifted, use the adjustable bushings to center the axle in the wheel well. Rotate the bushing eccentric to move the axle forward or backward as needed. A good starting point is to match the factory wheelbase measurement (check your service manual). Tighten the bushing lock nuts to the specified torque. Common mistake: skipping bushing adjustment leads to poor handling and uneven tire wear. Always check alignment before final torque.
6. 6. Torque All Bolts to Specification: Refer to the kit's torque specs (typically 80–100 ft-lbs for the frame bolts and 60–80 ft-lbs for the axle bolts). Use a torque wrench to tighten each bolt in a crisscross pattern. Re-check after the first ride. Checkpoint: mark each bolt head with a paint pen after torquing so you can visually verify they haven't loosened.
7. 7. Reinstall Wheels and Test Drive: Mount the rear wheels and torque the lug nuts to the factory spec (usually 80–90 ft-lbs). Lower the vehicle. Take a short test drive on level ground, then re-check all bolts for tightness. Listen for clunks or squeaks that might indicate a loose bushing. Common mistake: driving immediately without re-torquing can loosen bolts. Always re-check after 10–20 miles.

Product Facts

• 72" Rear Radius Rod Kit Fit Can-Am Maverick X3 / X3 MAX(2016–2026): Engineered from 1/8-inch-thick box-section steel tubing with reinforced gussets, these rear radius arms are up to 4× stronger than factory round-tube components. This extra strength prevents bending and flex during hard off-road use, keeping your rear suspension geometry accurate and reducing wheel hop.

  

• 72" Rear Radius Rod Kit Fit Can-Am Maverick X3 / X3 MAX(2016–2026): Equipped with adjustable bushings to correct suspension alignment and improve handling. Adjustable bushings let you dial in the rear axle position after installation, which is critical for maintaining even tire wear and stable cornering.