Does anyone know of an aftermarket source for replacements for the plastic engine side cover plates on the Rancher? Both the left and right covers on my engine are cracked at the screw attachment points and it looks like a matter of time until they break off completely. Am sure the plastic plates are to give the rider protection from heat but I would rather have aluminum or some other material that would not crack.

 

Did these just crack under normal riding, or did you have them off for some reason and perhaps put back on too tight.....just wondering cause i have a rancher also.

 

Mine have had bity cracks since the showroom floor, they've not gotten worse.

 

I checked both sides on my 2002 Rancher both plates around the screws have marks either there hairline cracks not sure.I felt with my finger nail does not seem to be cracked.As for replacements the aluminum or metal ones will conduct the heat then convect It to you so be real careful. One of the worst places to get burnt is on your feet and legs(lower extremeties).Check with your dealer they should be covered under your warranty.(remember the squeaky wheel gets the most grease).Did they give you a price on them? good luck. let me know how you make out.

 

The side cover plates each have a hairline cracks from the screw to the outside corner of the cover and I have not touched the screws to tighten them. The Rancher only has 150 miles on it so I was disappointed in the quality of the materials. Thought that someome may have come out with a carbon fiber replacement.