96
MAINTENANCE
Cooling System
The engine coolant level is maintained by the recovery system. The
recovery system components are the overflow bottle, radiator vent fit-
ting, radiator pressure cap and connecting hose.
As coolant operating temperature increases, the expanding (heated)
excess coolant is forced out of the radiator, past the pressure cap, and
into the overflow bottle. As engine coolant temperature decreases, the
contracting (cooled) coolant is drawn back up from the tank, past the
pressure cap, and into the radiator.
Tip:
Some coolant level drop on new vehicles is normal as the system is purging
itself of trapped air. Observe coolant levels and maintain as recommended
by adding coolant to the overflow bottle.
Adding or Changing Coolant
To ensure that the coolant maintains its ability to protect the engine, we
recommend that the system be completely drained every two years and a
fresh mixture of antifreeze and water added. See page 97 for changing
procedure.
POLARIS recommends the use of POLARIS Antifreeze 60/40 premix
or a 50/50 mixture of high quality aluminum compatible anti-freeze/
coolant and distilled water. POLARIS Antifreeze is already premixed
and ready to use. Do not dilute with water. See page 132 for the part
numbers of POLARIS products.
Tip:
Always follow the manufacturer's mixing recommendations for the freeze
protection required in your area.
Any time the cooling system has been drained for maintenance or repair,
replace the coolant.
Radiator and Cooling Fan
Always check and clean the screen and radiator fins at the intervals out-
lined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on page 77. Do not
obstruct or deflect air flow through the radiator by installing unauthor-
ized accessories in front of the radiator or behind the cooling fan. Inter-
ference with the radiator air flow can lead to overheating and
consequent engine damage.
NOTICE:
Washing the vehicle with a high-pressure hose could damage the
radiator fins and impair the radiator's effectiveness. Using a high-
pressure system is not recommended.