2005-2007 Polaris Ranger 500 service manual, Page 235Get this manual
FINAL DRIVE REAR GEARCASE (DIFFERENTIAL)
General Operation
The RANGER rear gearcase has three traction operational modes: AWD, Differential Lock, and Differential UnlockLocking the rear differential is beneficial in low traction and rough terrain conditionsUnlocking the rear differential makes maneuvering easier and minimizes damage to turf and sensitive terrainsWhen the clutch gear is unlocked the rear axle becomes differentialWhen it's locked it becomes solid rear axle increasing traction(See images below) Shift Yoke Clutch Gear
Shift yoke slides clutch gear to lock and unlock the rear differential