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38

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Pre-Ride Checklist

Inspect all items on the checklist for proper operation or condition 

before each use of the snowmobile. Procedures are outlined on the refer-

enced pages. Look for a checkmark (

n

) on the referenced pages to 

locate the pre-ride inspection items.

Item

See Page

Drive Belt Condition

81, 84

Steering System

42

Recoil Rope

43

Parking Brake Lock/Brake Lever/Brake System

40, 41, 75

Auxiliary Shut-Off Switch (Engine Stop Switch)

54

Ignition Switch

44

Taillight/Brakelight/Headlight

44

Suspension Mounting Bolts

94

Skags (Wear Bars)

 93

Ski Saddle and Spindle Bolts

94

Hood Straps/Latches

43

Throttle Lever/Safety Switch

39, 54, 55

Rear Wheel Idler Bolts

89, 94

Track Alignment/Condition

42, 90

Rail Slide Condition

94

Chaincase Oil Level

67

Injection Oil Level

51

Summary of Contents for Widetrack LX

Page 1: ...Pantone 426C Widetrak LX Snowmobile Owner s Manual for Maintenance and Safety...

Page 2: ...ns in this manual and on all product labels Failure to follow the safety precautions could result in serious injury or death WARNING The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to th...

Page 3: ...ntone 426C For your nearest Polaris dealer call 1 800 POLARIS or visit www polarisindustries com Polaris Sales Inc 2100 Hwy 55 Medina MN 55340 Phone 1 888 704 5290 Part No 9922310 Rev 02 Printed in US...

Page 4: ...safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle be sure to follow the instructions and recommendations in this owner s manual Your manual contains instructions for minor maintenance but information abou...

Page 5: ...and quality of production components some minor discrep ancies may result between the actual vehicle and the information presented in this publi cation Depictions and or procedures in this publication...

Page 6: ...plains how to tailor the suspension and other features for an optimum riding experience Pre Ride Inspections 38 This section explains procedures that must be performed before riding Operation 45 This...

Page 7: ...ll them in driver s training and safety courses sponsored by local or state organizations Follow the maintenance program outlined in this manual Preventive maintenance ensures that critical components...

Page 8: ...at snowmobiles conform to prescribed sound levels Polaris snowmobiles are engineered to conform to these SAE standards Our muffler systems are designed to reduce noise levels and must not be altered o...

Page 9: ...h one of your existing keys so if both keys are lost the ignition switch must be replaced Vehicle Model Number ___________________________________________________ Tunnel VIN __________________________...

Page 10: ...eir meanings before reading the manual The safety alert symbol indicates a potential personal injury hazard WARNING A WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which if not avoided may result in death o...

Page 11: ...is in excellent operating condition at all times Always check major and vital safety components before every ride All Polaris snowmobiles are designed and tested to provide safe operation when used as...

Page 12: ...hind it while warming up the track A loose track or flying debris could cause serious injury or death We recommend having your dealer perform all track service and alignment procedures Stay Clear of E...

Page 13: ...hone Always carry the owner s manual on your snowmobile For added pro tection purchase and carry the following items on your snowmobile as well Riding Position Operating a snowmobile requires skill an...

Page 14: ...will also be displayed on the label Eye Protection Do not depend on eyeglasses or sunglasses for eye protection When ever riding a Polaris vehicle always wear shatterproof goggles or use a shatterpro...

Page 15: ...is vehicle Rider Capacity Driving 1 Up Some Polaris snowmobiles are designed for a single rider only A label on the console of these models indicates single rider operation Driving 2 Up Some Polaris s...

Page 16: ...peed MPH by 1 5 will equal the approximate number of feet per second your snowmobile travels If your speed is 40 MPH your snowmobile is traveling about 60 feet per second If you look back for only two...

Page 17: ...iew Always leave yourself a way out Variances in snow depth and or water currents may result in uneven ice thickness Always check with local residents or authorities for general information on conditi...

Page 18: ...ow is connected You may be riding on a flat slope or snow covered road but if the snowpack above is unstable enough you can trigger an avalanche on a steeper slope above you Always be aware of snow co...

Page 19: ...ficulty is encountered check for ice and snow build up that may be obstructing the steering linkage Snow screens and bib kits are available through your dealer to help reduce snow and ice build up Dri...

Page 20: ...nce and avoid possible rollover Slow down when reaching the crest of a hill Be prepared to react to obstacles sharp drops or other people or vehicles that may be on the other side of the hill If you r...

Page 21: ...d stops will also cause an overheated brake system This condition may lead to a sudden loss of brakes and or fire and may result in serious injury or death Clutch Guard Do not operate the engine with...

Page 22: ...eate an unstable condition Cold Weather Drive Away Whenever your snowmobile has been parked for a length of time espe cially overnight always make sure the skis and track are loosened from ice and sno...

Page 23: ...nd track causing premature wear damage and failure which can result in serious injury Reduce speeds and frequently drive into fresh snow to allow adequate cooling and polishing of the slide rail and t...

Page 24: ...ell as yours make sure they take a snowmobile safety course Everyone can benefit from the course Don t jump your snowmobile over large drifts or similar terrain Jumping may injure your back because of...

Page 25: ...93 50 26 19 12 4 3 10 17 24 31 38 45 52 60 67 74 81 88 95 55 25 18 11 4 3 11 18 25 32 39 46 54 61 68 75 82 89 97 60 25 17 10 3 4 11 19 26 33 40 48 55 62 69 76 84 91 98 Frostbite in 30 min 10 min 5 min...

Page 26: ...is printed on the label Clutch Cover Warning This warning label is found under the hood on the clutch cover WARNING Do not operate engine with hood open Do not attempt adjustment with engine running D...

Page 27: ...Reverse Warning Polaris Widetrak snowmobile is equipped with standard reverse The reverse warning label is located above the instrument hous ing WARNING Reverse operation even at low speeds can cause...

Page 28: ...wear an approved helmet eye protection and adequate clothing while operating this vehicle This vehicle is designed for adult use only Check local laws for age requirements When operating with a passe...

Page 29: ...fuel gauge 2 Ignition Switch 3 Brake Lever 4 Speedometer may include indicator warning lights 5 Reverse Indicator 6 Mountain Bar 7 Engine Stop Switch see page 54 8 Throttle Control 9 Choke 10 Recoil S...

Page 30: ...s Manual Supplement 1 Headlight Dimmer Switch 2 Parking Brake Lock 3 Handlebar Grip Warmer Switch 4 Thumbwarmer Switch 5 Electronic Reverse Button Fuel Valve The fuel valve is located under the hood T...

Page 31: ...d 4 Handlebar 5 Operator Seat 6 Passenger Hand Hold Strap 7 Cargo Rack 8 Taillights 9 Snow Flap 10 Track 11 Suspension 12 Trailing Arm 13 Nosepan 14 Front Bumper do not use for pulling or dragging the...

Page 32: ...rest 2 Loosen the lower adjustment knobs to move the backrest for ward for operator use or rearward for pas senger use 3 Always tighten the knobs Cargo Rack Always secure cargo before operating Do not...

Page 33: ...th factory settings and then customizing each adjustment individually to suit rider preference The snowmobile should be methodically tested under the same conditions after each adjustment trail and sn...

Page 34: ...preload should be set as low as possible to use the full travel of the ski shock with occasional light bottoming To determine if your snowmobile is using full travel of the ski shock push the jounce b...

Page 35: ...e Front Springs For models without exter nally adjustable or revalv able shocks the front springs can be changed if spring preload alone isn t sufficient and further adjustment is desired to control s...

Page 36: ...at which the spring pre load should be set However this may vary with riding style With a little experimentation each rider can find a preferred set up These adjustments are easy to make involve very...

Page 37: ...e ground and the same spot on the running board The difference between the two measurements should be approximately 1 1 2 3 8 cm If the difference is greater than 1 1 2 the rear spring should be adjus...

Page 38: ...or right for access to the rear nuts If necessary pry the blocks apart with a screw driver 3 Adjust the handlebar to the desired angle Be sure the handlebar brake lever and throttle lever operate smo...

Page 39: ...r bare terrain Inspect skags frequently Worn skags may reduce steering and braking control on hard packed snow and ice Replace worn skags to maintain proper balance and vehicle control WARNING Loss of...

Page 40: ...e only Polaris parts and accessories on your Polaris snowmobile Use of unapproved parts and accessories may result in Non compliance with government industry requirements Voiding of warranty Injury to...

Page 41: ...Page Drive Belt Condition 81 84 Steering System 42 Recoil Rope 43 Parking Brake Lock Brake Lever Brake System 40 41 75 Auxiliary Shut Off Switch Engine Stop Switch 54 Ignition Switch 44 Taillight Brak...

Page 42: ...the Owner s Manual completely and refer to it often The manual is your guide to safe and enjoyable snowmobiling experience n Throttle Lever The throttle and brake are the primary controls of your snow...

Page 43: ...level or air in the hydraulic sys tem See pages 76 77 or see your dealer for service Lever Feel If the brake lever feels spongy when squeezed check the brake fluid level and condition Add fluid as nee...

Page 44: ...ightly enough the lock will move freely into place Do not force the lock or it may break The brake light will illuminate if the parking brake lever lock is set while the engine is running It will also...

Page 45: ...cause loss of control resulting in serious injury or death Always inspect the track for damage before using the vehicle WARNING Use of traction products such as studs increases the possibility of trac...

Page 46: ...d that the latches are securely in place before operating the snowmo bile n Seat Latches If your snowmobile is equipped with a removable seat ensure that the seat latches are securely in place before...

Page 47: ...the headlight high and low beam taillight and brake light Replace burned out lamps before operating n Mirrors if equipped Adjust the mirrors so they can be used to their full advantage n Operating Ar...

Page 48: ...t turn the key to START to crank the engine Release the key to the ON position when the engine starts NOTICE Don t pull the starter rope to the fully extended position and don t allow it to snap back...

Page 49: ...three hours of operation will damage close fitted engine parts Do not operate at full throttle or high speeds for extended periods during the first three hours of use Vary the throttle openings and ve...

Page 50: ...03 for the part numbers of Polaris products Never mix brands of oil Serious chemical reactions can cause injection system blockage resulting in serious engine damage Oils may also be incompatible and...

Page 51: ...the engine drive train and track 1 Use an appropriate stand to securely support the rear of the snow mobile at the rear bumper The track should be approximately 4 inches 10 cm off the ground 2 Start t...

Page 52: ...is performed or where gasoline is stored If gasoline spills on your skin or clothing immediately wash it off with soap and water and change clothing Never start the engine or let it run in an enclosed...

Page 53: ...nical Gauge There are approximately two gallons of fuel left in the tank when the mechanical fuel gauge reads RES Fuel System Deicers If you use non oxygenated fuel Polaris recommends the regular use...

Page 54: ...y may also be incompatible and the result could be sludge formation filter blockage and reduced cold weather flow rates All Polaris oils are compatible with each other Always maintain the oil level ab...

Page 55: ...e fuel may result in piston burning bearing failure or complete engine failure A rich mixture too much fuel too little air may foul plugs and cause generally poor engine performance A lean mixture may...

Page 56: ...altitude range The main jet installed in production is not correct for all altitudes and or temperatures NOTICE A main jet that s too small will cause a lean operating condition and may cause serious...

Page 57: ...n WARNING Operating the snowmobile with a faulty throttle safety switch can result in serious injury or death in the event of an accident If the throttle safety switch does not shut off the engine dur...

Page 58: ...ttle lever operates properly turn the ignition switch on and go through normal starting procedures 5 If the engine doesn t start take the snowmobile to an authorized Polaris dealer for service Tip Exc...

Page 59: ...ol kit containing essential tools for emergency use Snowmobiles equipped with electric start have a recoil for emergency starting If the recoil starter system fails an emer gency start strap is provid...

Page 60: ...ake that determination Do not force the shift lever into reverse if resistance is felt The gears may not always be aligned for shifting into reverse and forcing the lever may cause damage If resistanc...

Page 61: ...d be used If passengers are to be towed on a toboggan or sled make sure the pole is at least four feet 1 2 meters long to prevent any possibility of contact between the snowmobile s track and a person...

Page 62: ...is intended solely for your use in making a purchasing decision Emission Control Maintenance Requirements Your snowmobile is certified to operate on gasoline with a minimum octane level of 87 R M 2 If...

Page 63: ...ervals All necessary replacement parts and labor incurred with the exception of authorized warranty repairs become the responsibility of the regis tered owner If during the course of the warranty peri...

Page 64: ...1600 km 2000 mi 3200 km Pre Season CLUTCH Clutch Offset Alignment without belt 80 I I I Drive Belt Condition 81 I I I I Clutches disassemble 80 C C C Belt Tension I I I I Clutch Sheaves 84 I I I I ENG...

Page 65: ...I I Throttle Lever 39 55 I I I I I Oil Pump Lever synchronize I I I Throttle Cable 66 L L L Choke Cable 66 I L L L Vent Lines I I I I Throttle Position Sensor I I I Choke 66 I I I Fuel Filter 73 R R...

Page 66: ...ings 66 L L L I Skags Wear Bars 93 I I I I I Ski Saddle Spindle Bolts I I I I I Ski Pivots 64 L L L L I Ski Spindle 64 L L L L I Steering Arm s 64 L L L L I Upper Lower Steering Post Support Bracket 6...

Page 67: ...bers of Polaris products The illustration shows the lubrication points of suspension and steering components A indicates a grease point or fitting Grease the left and right spindles Raise the front en...

Page 68: ...65 MAINTENANCE Lubrication Rear Suspension WideTrak Rear Suspension...

Page 69: ...e or outside the bearing seal approximately two pumps Throttle Cable Lubricate the throttle cable lightly with grease or oil With the engine off turn the handlebars to the left and lubricate liberally...

Page 70: ...vel place the snow mobile on a level surface The oil level should be between the safe marks on the dipstick 1 See your Polaris dealer for the recommended oil for your snowmobile Do not over fill Clean...

Page 71: ...gine under medium or light duty to have spark plug failure NOTICE A spark plug with a heat range too high will always cause engine damage if the engine is operated in conditions more severe than inten...

Page 72: ...e few combustion deposits The electrodes are not burned or eroded This indi cates the proper type and heat range for the engine and the service The tip should not be white A white insulator tip indica...

Page 73: ...odically to remove any accumulation of snow NOTICE Operating the snowmobile with the intake filters removed may cause carburetor icing The result will be poor fuel economy or carburetor malfunction Al...

Page 74: ...ays work in a well ventilated area away from anything that may cause the fuel to ignite such as open flames sparks heaters trouble lights cigarettes etc Review the gasoline warnings found on page 49 P...

Page 75: ...engine damage Have your Polaris dealer perform all carburetor adjustments to ensure all adjustments are done correctly Carburetor Adjustments The frequency at which the carburetors are synchronized or...

Page 76: ...fuel compounds may occur Replace worn or damaged fuel lines promptly NOTICE Kinking the fuel lines or using a pliers or similar tools to remove fuel lines may cause damage to the lines If a fuel line...

Page 77: ...he muffler and pipes for cracks or damage Check for weak or missing retaining springs or damper support grommets CAUTION Hot exhaust system parts can cause serious burns Allow adequate time for the ex...

Page 78: ...ealer WARNING Brake failure during operation can result in serious injury or death Properly functioning brakes are vital to your safety Be sure the brake pads do not drag on the disc and that brake le...

Page 79: ...sight glass in the brake reservoir If the fluid is sufficient the sight glass will be black If the sight glass is any color other than black add brake fluid Keep the master cylinder cover free of dir...

Page 80: ...ket 2 Fill the master cylinder reservoir to between the MIN and MAX marks or 1 4 5 16 inch 6 8 cm below the lip of the reservoir opening Reinstall the gasket and cover 3 Slip a rubber tube over the ba...

Page 81: ...adlight and make a mark on the wall 3 Start the engine and turn the headlight switch to high beam 4 Observe the headlight aim The most intense part of the headlight beam should be aimed two 2 inches 5...

Page 82: ...ousing 3 With the wire harness attached to the bulb 3 withdraw the bulb from the housing 4 Grasp the bulb by its metal base and carefully separate the bulb from the harness 5 Hold the new bulb by its...

Page 83: ...t be performed by an authorized Polaris dealer Any unauthorized modifications to clutches such as adding or removing weights will void the warranty NOTICE The bushings in the weights and rollers of Po...

Page 84: ...bleshooting on page 105 Periodically check the condition and tension of the drive belt and always carry a spare Inspect the belt for signs of excessive wear frayed edges missing cogs cracks and excess...

Page 85: ...mpo nents during belt removal 2 Turn the ignition key off Wait for the engine to stop completely 3 Lock the parking brake if equipped 4 Open the hood 5 Remove the clutch guard retaining pin and open t...

Page 86: ...you can read them If required separate the sheaves as outlined in the belt removal procedures 2 Turn the driven clutch moveable sheave clockwise while pushing inward and forcing the belt down between...

Page 87: ...ing the clutch from the jackshaft 1 Loosen the 7 16 inch jam nut on the belt width adjuster 2 Using a 1 8 inch Allen wrench adjust the threaded set screw as needed Tip Turn the set screw in clockwise...

Page 88: ...owmobile for emergency and routine maintenance Always keep the tool kit with the snowmobile Chain Tension Maintain the proper chain tension as outlined on page 74 Fall Tune Up For maximum performance...

Page 89: ...r operate with a damaged track Never rotate a damaged track under power 1 Using a hoist safely lift and support the rear of the snowmobile off the ground 2 Rotate the track by hand to check for possib...

Page 90: ...e little or no snow for lubrication The slide rail requires adequate snow cover for sufficient lubrication Excessive wear indicates insufficient lubrication A new rail slide can cause faster heat buil...

Page 91: ...n can cause serious damage to the snowmobile which can result in loss of vehicle control and serious injury or death Always maintain the track tension as specified 1 Turn the engine off 2 Lift the rea...

Page 92: ...asurement on the other side of the track Tip Check more frequently when snowmobile is new 10 Start the engine and slowly rotate the track at least five revolutions Let the track come to a stop do not...

Page 93: ...ast five complete revolutions Stop the engine and let the track come to a stop do not apply brakes 3 Inspect track alignment by looking through the track window to make sure the rails are evenly space...

Page 94: ...MAINTENANCE Steering System Steering Inspection Each week or before a long ride check fasteners and tighten if neces sary Specific fasteners that should be checked are marked with a in the illustrati...

Page 95: ...aler With the handlebars in a straight ahead position and with vehicle weight compressing the suspension measure from the straight edge of the skis at the center of the ski mounting bolt The measureme...

Page 96: ...ing Loss of vehicle control may result causing serious injury or death Check skags weekly to maintain positive steering characteristics Skags must be replaced when worn to half their original diameter...

Page 97: ...own time Before beginning any snowmobile trip a visual inspection will uncover potential problems Check the follow ing items on a weekly basis or before any long trip n Check suspension mounting bolts...

Page 98: ...l attention Batteries produce explosive gases Keep sparks open flames cigarettes etc away Ventilate when charging or using in closed space Always shield eyes when working near batteries Battery Fluid...

Page 99: ...ery cables can result in an explosion and cause serious injury or death When removing the battery always disconnect the negative black cable first When reinstalling the battery always connect the nega...

Page 100: ...led Route the vent tube properly to prevent kinks and to allow for proper drainage WARNING Battery gases could accumulate in an improperly installed vent tube and cause an explosion resulting in serio...

Page 101: ...Store it in a cool dry place Check and or charge monthly Have the battery tested and recharged before reinstalling it in the vehicle If a battery with a low charge freezes the cells could be damaged...

Page 102: ...e and sup port it at the rear with an appropriate track stand The track should be suspended approximately 4 inches 10 cm off the ground Remove the key and cover the snowmobile Tip Polaris has accessor...

Page 103: ...and corrosion on precision engine parts during storage Whenever the snowmobile is stored for a period of more than 60 days the engine must be fogged with fogging oil Follow the engine fogging instruct...

Page 104: ...5 Pour approximately two ounces of Polaris injector oil into the spark plug hole 6 Wait one to two minutes and perform steps 3 to 5 on remaining cyl inders 7 Replace the spark plugs and lower the snow...

Page 105: ...edges steering linkage moving parts and hot exhaust parts Battery Always prepare and maintain the battery as outlined on page 95 Track and Suspension Moderate track tension should be maintained during...

Page 106: ...Oil 2 5 gal Chaincase Lubricants 2873105 Synthetic Chaincase Lubricant qt 2872951 Synthetic Chaincase Lubricant 12 oz Grease Specialized Lubricants 2871312 Grease Gun Kit Premium All Season 3 oz 2871...

Page 107: ...age 89 Adjust torsion spring blocks or install optional torsion springs to achieve correct sag dimensions Front end pushes Check for worn skags Check for binding front suspension shafts and steering c...

Page 108: ...M Avoid riding in high ambient temperatures Ice and snow build up between track and tunnel Warm the engine at least five minutes Take the drive belt off the snowmobile in extremely cold weather and wa...

Page 109: ...and replace if neces sary SEE YOUR DEALER Harsh drive clutch engage ment Drive belt worn or too narrow Replace drive belt Excessive belt sheave clearance SEE YOUR DEALER Drive belt turns over Wrong b...

Page 110: ...Worn drive belt Inspect and replace if necessary Excessive belt sheave clearance SEE YOUR DEALER Loose torque stop Inspect and adjust Sticky clutch SEE YOUR DEALER Engine doesn t start electric start...

Page 111: ...ed Poor engine compression Running too lean a mixture too small a main jet will cause seizure resulting in loss of power SEE YOUR DEALER This indicates a major engine problem that must be repaired bef...

Page 112: ...contained in this manual Your dealer is also familiar with Polaris policies and procedures and will be happy to assist you When contacting us about parts service or warranty always provide the followi...

Page 113: ...owner reports theft A In addition to notifying the proper law enforcement officials the owner must call Polaris Customer Service B Owners must provide their name address telephone number and the mode...

Page 114: ...not caused by a defect in material or workmanship The warranty does not cover accidental damage normal wear and tear abuse or improper handling The warranty also does not cover any snowmobile that ha...

Page 115: ...t present your copy of the Warranty Registration form to the dealer The cost of transportation to and from the dealer is YOUR responsibility Polaris recommends that you use your original selling deale...

Page 116: ...verage in the event of a warranty claim This warranty also excludes failures resulting from improper lubrication improper engine timing improper fuel surface imperfections caused by external stress he...

Page 117: ...overage is automatic with no addi tional paperwork required The free Second Year Engine Service Contract is subject to a 50 deductible per visit Regular documented service maintenance visits are requi...

Page 118: ...ake your vehicle to an authorized Polaris dealer You must show the dealer photo identification from the country of the selling dealer s authorized location as proof of residence Upon residence verific...

Page 119: ...omponents of systems whose only purpose is to control emissions Repairing or replacing other components not covered by this war ranty is the responsibility of the vehicle owner This emissions limited...

Page 120: ...ue to accidents abuse or improper handling maintenance or use This limited warranty also does not cover any engine that has been structurally altered or when the vehicle has been used in racing compet...

Page 121: ...r each time your snow mobile is serviced This will provide you and future owners with an accurate log of maintenance and services performed on the snowmobile DATE MILES KM TECHNICIAN SERVICE PERFORMED...

Page 122: ...119 MAINTENANCE LOG DATE MILES KM TECHNICIAN SERVICE PERFORMED COMMENTS...

Page 123: ...120 MAINTENANCE LOG DATE MILES KM TECHNICIAN SERVICE PERFORMED COMMENTS...

Page 124: ...121 MAINTENANCE LOG DATE MILES KM TECHNICIAN SERVICE PERFORMED COMMENTS...

Page 125: ...lutch Center Distance 80 Clutch Cover Warning 23 Clutch Guard 18 Clutch System 80 84 Clutches 19 Cold Weather Drive Away 19 D Disabled Operators 12 Drive Belt Safety 18 Adjustment 84 Condition 81 Defl...

Page 126: ...eep Snow 20 Operation Warning 25 P Parking Brake Lever Lock 41 Passenger Warning 23 Periodic Maintenance Table 61 63 Polaris Products 103 Pre Ride Checklist 38 Pre Ride Inspections 38 44 R Rail Slide...

Page 127: ...Throttle Safety Switch 39 54 Tool Kit 85 Torque Stop 84 Towing 58 Track Alignment 90 Cooling 47 Damage 42 Inspection 86 Lubrication 87 Tension 33 88 89 Warm Up 48 T Track Seat Warning 24 Traction Pro...

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