Polaris 2011 Widetrak LX User Manual

Pantone 426CSnowmobile Owner's Manualfor Maintenance and SafetyWidetrak LX

6INTRODUCTIONVehicle Identification NumbersRecord your snowmobile’s identification numbers and key number in the spaces provided. Remove the spare key

96MAINTENANCEBatteryBattery ConnectionsKeep battery terminals and connections free of corrosion. When clean-ing is necessary, remove the corrosion wit

97MAINTENANCEBatteryBattery InstallationWARNING! Battery electrolyte contains acid. Avoid skin contact with electrolyte as severe burns may result.Usi

98MAINTENANCEBatteryBattery StorageWhen your snowmobile is placed in storage for one month or more (in summer or in winter):• Remove the battery.• Cha

99MAINTENANCEDaily StorageAt the end of each ride, park the snowmobile on a level surface and sup-port it at the rear with an appropriate track stand.

100MAINTENANCEExtended StorageOff-season or extended storage of your snowmobile requires preventive measures to aid against deterioration and to prolo

101MAINTENANCEExtended StorageEngine and Carburetor ProtectionUsing a fuel stabilizer and topping off the fuel tank eliminates the need to drain the f

102MAINTENANCEExtended StorageElectrical ConnectionsSeparate electrical connector blocks and clean corrosive build-up from connectors. Lubricate or pa

103POLARIS PRODUCTSPart No.DescriptionEngine Lubricants2870791 Fogging Oil (12 oz. Aerosol)2875035 Premium 2-Cycle Semi-Synthetic Oil (qt./.95 l)28750

104TROUBLESHOOTINGSuspension TroubleshootingProblem Solution (perform only one change at a time)Rear suspension bot-toms too easily• Verify sag dimens

105TROUBLESHOOTINGBelt Wear/Burn TroubleshootingBelt Wear/Burn DiagnosisCauses SolutionsDriving at low RPM Drive at higher RPMs. Gear the machine down

7SAFETYOperator SafetyThe following signal words and symbols appear throughout this manual and on your vehicle. Your safety is involved when these wor

106TROUBLESHOOTINGEngine TroubleshootingUnless you have experience and training in two-cycle engine repair, see your dealer if technical problems aris

107TROUBLESHOOTINGEngine TroubleshootingProblem Probable Cause SolutionNoise in drive systemBroken drive clutch components• SEE YOUR DEALER.Bearing fa

108TROUBLESHOOTINGEngine TroubleshootingProblem Probable Cause SolutionEngine turns but fails to startFaulty ignition • Remove spark plug(s) and repla

109WARRANTYService And Warranty InformationObtaining Service and Warranty AssistanceRead and understand the service data and the POLARIS warranty info

110WARRANTYService And Warranty InformationPOLARIS Anti-Theft SystemThe POLARIS anti-theft system (PATS) monitoring program is designed to aid owners

111WARRANTYLimited WarrantyPOLARIS Sales Inc., 2100 Highway 55, Medina, MN 55340, provides a ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY on all components of the POLARI

112WARRANTYLimitations of warranties and remediesALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FI

113WARRANTYConditions and ExclusionsIn order to qualify for warranty, the product must have been properly set up and tested by a POLARIS Dealer (if ap

114WARRANTYConditions and ExclusionsWarranty applies to the product only and does not allow for coverage of personal loss. Some items are considered “

115WARRANTYExported VehiclesEXCEPT WHERE SPECIFICALLY REQUIRED BY LAW, THERE IS NO WAR-RANTY OR SERVICE BULLETIN COVERAGE ON THIS VEHICLE IF IT IS SOL

8SAFETYOperator SafetyFollow the recommended maintenance program outlined beginning on page 60 of this manual to ensure that all critical components o

116WARRANTYU.S.A. EPA Emissions Limited WarrantyThis emissions limited warranty is in addition to the POLARIS standard limited war-ranty for your vehi

117WARRANTYU.S.A. EPA Emissions Limited WarrantyThe exclusive remedy for breach of this limited warranty shall be, at the exclusive option of POLARIS,

118MAINTENANCE LOGPresent this section of your manual to your dealer each time your snow-mobile is serviced. This will provide you and future owners w

119MAINTENANCE LOGDATE MILES(KM)TECHNICIAN SERVICE PERFORMED / COMMENTS

120MAINTENANCE LOGDATE MILES(KM)TECHNICIAN SERVICE PERFORMED / COMMENTS

121MAINTENANCE LOGDATE MILES(KM)TECHNICIAN SERVICE PERFORMED / COMMENTS

122INDEXAAccessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Air Box Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Air Pollution . . . . . . . . . . .

123INDEXIIce and Snow Build-up . . . . . . . . . . . 16IFS Adjustment Options . . . . . . . . . . 30IFS Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

124INDEXSSuspension Adjustments, Front . . 30-32Suspension Adjustments, Rear . . 33-34Suspension Coupling . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Suspension Ins

9SAFETYOperator SafetyStay Clear of TrackYour snowmobile is propelled by a revolving track that must be partially exposed for proper operation.WARNING

10SAFETYOperator SafetySurvival PreparationFor your safety, always ride in a group of other snowmobilers. Always tell someone where you’re going and h

11SAFETYOperator SafetyRiding ApparelHelmetWearing a helmet can prevent a severe head injury. Whenever riding a POLARIS vehicle, always wear a helmet

12SAFETYOperator SafetyCargo OverloadToo much weight on the rear of the snowmobile may reduce your ability to steer. Do not exceed carrier and rack we

13SAFETYOperator SafetyExcessive SpeedWARNING! High speed driving, especially at night, could result in serious injury or death. Always reduce speed w

14SAFETYOperator SafetyDriver AwarenessSlow down when traveling near poles, posts, or other obstacles. Be especially alert if you’re snowmobiling afte

15SAFETYOperator SafetyAvalanchesSnowmobilers should always be properly trained and equipped before traveling in mountainous terrain:• Take an avalanc

WARNINGRead, understand, and follow all of the instructions and safety precautions in this manual and on all product labels.Failure to follow the safe

16SAFETYOperator SafetyIce and Snow Build-upWARNING! Ice and snow build-up may interfere with the steering of your snowmobile, resulting in serious in

17SAFETYOperator SafetyDriving on SlopesWARNING! Climbing a hill or crossing the face of a slope may result in loss of balance and snowmobile rollover

18SAFETYOperator SafetyDriving DownhillWhen riding downhill, shift your weight to the rear of the snowmobile and reduce your speed to a minimum. Apply

19SAFETYOperator SafetyIntake SilencerDo not operate the engine with the intake silencer or filter removed.NOTICE: Damage to the engine may occur if t

20SAFETYOperator SafetyInadequate Snow ConditionsSince snow provides the only lubrication for the power slide suspension and, on liquid cooled models,

21SAFETYOperator SafetyDriving ResponsiblyEvery snowmobile handles differently, and even the most docile condi-tions may become dangerous if operators

22SAFETYOperator SafetyWindchill/Temperature ChartsThe following information is provided to help you determine when tem-peratures become dangerous for

23SAFETYSafety Labels and LocationsWarning labels have been placed on the snowmobile for your protection. Read and follow the instructions of the labe

24SAFETYSafety Labels and LocationsTrack/Seat WarningThe track/seat warning label is on the rear of the tunnel:WARNINGStay clear of track. Do not sit

25SAFETYSafety Labels and LocationsOperation WarningAn operation warning label is present on the console of all POLARIS snowmobiles:WARNING• To avoid

The text is printed on 100% recycled with 40% post-consumer waste (PCW).

26FEATURES AND CONTROLS1. Fuel Filler Cap (may include a fuel gauge)2. Ignition Switch3. Brake Lever4. Speedometer (may include indicator/warning ligh

27FEATURES AND CONTROLSSome POLARIS snowmobiles are equipped with special features. Controls for these features are illustrated on this page. Not all

28FEATURES AND CONTROLS1. Hood2. Headlight3. Windshield4. Handlebar5. Operator Seat6. Passenger Hand Hold Strap7. Cargo Rack8. Taillights9. Snow Flap1

29FEATURES AND CONTROLSBackrestThe backrest is adjustable for either operator or pas-senger use.1. Loosen the upper adjustment knobs to raise or lower

30THE PERFECT FITFront Suspension AdjustmentsBreak in the suspension for approximately 150 miles (240 km) and re-grease all suspension parts before ma

31THE PERFECT FITFront Suspension AdjustmentsAlways verify ski alignment before making adjustments to the IFS. See page 92 to check alignment. If the

32THE PERFECT FITFront Suspension AdjustmentsShock Spring PreloadIncreasing spring preload will increase ski-to-ground pressure. Decreasing spring pre

33THE PERFECT FITRear Suspension AdjustmentsRider weight, riding style, trail conditions, and vehicle speed all affect suspension action. Each rear su

34THE PERFECT FITWideTrak Rear Suspension AdjustmentsSuspension Coupling1. On level ground, turn the adjuster knob clockwise to align the arrow marker

35THE PERFECT FITHandlebar AdjustmentsStandard HandlebarFollow these steps to adjust handlebar angle at the handlebar block.1. Remove the mountain bar

For your nearest Polaris dealer, call 1-800-POLARISor visit www.polarisindustries.comPolaris Sales Inc., 2100 Hwy. 55, Medina, MN 55340Phone 1-888-70

36THE PERFECT FITTraction Productsn Carbide SkagsA skag is a replaceable bar attached to the underside of the ski to assist in turning the snowmobile

37THE PERFECT FITAccessoriesPOLARIS offers a wide range of accessories for your snowmobile. From map light to electric start, POLARIS has the accessor

38PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONSPre-Ride ChecklistInspect all items on the checklist for proper operation or condition before each use of the snowmobile. Proced

39PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONSBefore Starting the EngineBefore starting the engine, always refer to all safety warnings pertaining to snowmobile operation. Ne

40PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONSBefore Starting the Enginen Hydraulic BrakesAlways check the following items for proper operation before starting the engine.Bra

41PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONSBefore Starting the Enginen Parking Brake Lever LockYour snowmobile may have a parking brake lever lock located over the brake l

42PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONSBefore Starting the Enginen Steering SystemManually turn the skis completely to the right and to the left. If any dif-ficulty is

43PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONSBefore Starting the Enginen Hood LatchesThe hood of the snowmobile protects the operator from moving parts as well as aiding in

44PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONSStart the Engine and Checkn Engine Stop SwitchCheck the auxiliary shut-off switch for proper operation. Push the switch down t

45OPERATIONStarting the EngineNOTICE: Engaging the starter when the engine is running WILL result in serious engine damage, especially if the transmis

1WELCOMEThank you for purchasing a POLARIS vehicle, and welcome to our world-wide family of POLARIS owners. We proudly produce an excit-ing line of ut

46OPERATIONBreak-In PeriodEngine Break-InAlways follow these recommended break-in procedures for new or rebuilt engines. The first tank of fuel is con

47OPERATIONBreak-In PeriodEngine Break-InExcessive heat build-up during the first three hours of operation will damage close-fitted engine parts. Do n

48OPERATIONSlide Rail and Track CoolingNOTICE: Inadequate cooling and lubrication will lead to overheating of the slide rail and track, resulting in p

49OPERATIONFuelFuel SafetyGasoline is highly flammable and explosive under certain conditions.• Always exercise extreme caution whenever handling gaso

50OPERATIONFuelYour POLARIS engine is designed to run on 87 octane non-oxygenated or 89 octane oxygenated pump gasoline. There’s a great deal of varia

51OPERATIONn OilLow Oil Indicator LightThe low oil indicator light may flicker at times due to oil movement in the bottle, but when the light comes on

52OPERATIONn OilLow Oil LevelAlways do a visual check of the oil level when refueling. When the oil reaches the low level mark, add the recommended oi

53OPERATIONCarburetionJetting GuidelinesChanges in altitude and temperature affect air density, which is the amount of oxygen available for combustion

54OPERATIONn Engine Stop SwitchPush down on the engine stop switch to stop the engine in an emergency. This will ground out the ignition and bring the

55OPERATIONn Throttle LeverWARNING! An improperly functioning throttle lever may cause erratic snowmobile behavior and loss of control, which could re

2POLARIS and THE WAY OUT are registered trademarks of POLARIS Industries Inc.Copyright 2010 POLARIS Sales Inc. All information contained within this p

56OPERATIONn Emergency StoppingThe following chart lists methods for stopping the snowmobile in the event of an emergency. Refer to page 54 for more i

57OPERATIONReverse OperationWARNING! Improper reverse operation, even at low speeds, may cause loss of control, resulting in serious injury or death.

58OPERATIONTowingDo not use the front bumper to pull or drag the snowmobile. The front bumper is not designed for this type of use and may detach from

59MAINTENANCEEmission Control InformationAny qualified repair shop or qualified person may maintain, replace, or repair the emission control devices o

60MAINTENANCEPOLARIS Recommended Maintenance ProgramTo ensure many trouble-free miles of snowmobiling enjoyment, follow recommended regular maintenanc

61MAINTENANCEPeriodic Maintenance Interval TableThe following chart is a guide based on average riding conditions. You may need to increase frequency

62MAINTENANCEPeriodic Maintenance Interval TableI - Inspect (clean, adjust, tighten, lubricate, replace if necessary)C - Clean R - Replace L - Lubrica

63MAINTENANCEPeriodic Maintenance Interval TableItem See PageFrequency150 mi.(240 km)500 mi.(800 km)1000 mi.(1600 km)2000 mi.(3200 km)Pre-SeasonCHASSI

64MAINTENANCELubricationSuspension and SteeringLubricate the suspension and steering components with POLARIS Pre-mium All-Season Grease at 500 miles (

65MAINTENANCELubricationRear SuspensionWideTrak Rear Suspension+++++

3TABLE OF CONTENTSIntroduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4This section contains helpful information for owners and dri

66MAINTENANCELubricationJackshaft BearingThe jackshaft bearing on your model may be equipped with a grease fit-ting, but this component is greased for

67MAINTENANCELubricationn Gearcase Oil LevelCheck the gearcase oil level at the intervals outlined in the maintenance charts beginning on page 63. Cha

68MAINTENANCESpark PlugsIt’s very important to use the correct spark plug for your snowmobile. A spark plug with a heat range too high will cause engi

69MAINTENANCESpark PlugsSpark plug condition is indicative of engine operation. The spark plug firing end condition should be read after the engine ha

70MAINTENANCEIntake FilterThe intake foam filter and screen limits snow ingestion into the intake system. When operating in loose powder snow, check t

71MAINTENANCECarburetorWater/Sediment Trap ServiceMost POLARIS snowmobiles contain patented carburetor bowl water/sediment traps located at the bottom

72MAINTENANCECarburetorThe number stamped in the end of the main jet indicates the jet size. The jet installed at the time of manufacture is not neces

73MAINTENANCEFuel Filter/Fuel LinesThe fuel filter is located inside the fuel tank. This component requires no maintenance.Inspect the fuel lines regu

74MAINTENANCEExhaust SystemCheck the exhaust system for wear or damage at approximately 1000 miles (1600 km). To inspect, allow the engine and exhaust

75MAINTENANCEBrakesn Hydraulic Brake InspectionInspect the brake lever reserve before each use of the snowmobile. See page 40.Brake pads must be repla

4INTRODUCTIONImportant Notes for Owners and DriversAfter reading this manual, store it in the snowmobile for convenient ref-erence. It should remain w

76MAINTENANCEBrakesBrake FluidWARNING! After opening a bottle of brake fluid, always discard any unused portion. Never store or use a partial bottle.

77MAINTENANCEBrakesBleeding the Hydraulic Brake SystemAir in the hydraulic brake system will cause spongy brake lever action. Bleed the system before

78MAINTENANCELightsHeadlight AdjustmentThe headlight may be adjusted for vertical aim using the following pro-cedure:1. Place the snowmobile on a leve

79MAINTENANCELightsAvoid touching a halogen bulb with bare fingers. Oil from skin leaves a residue, causing a hot spot that will shorten the life of t

80MAINTENANCEClutch SystemPeriodically inspect the clutch sheaves for damage, wear, or belt resi-due. To maintain optimum performance, clean with non-

81MAINTENANCEClutch Systemn Drive Belt ConditionBelt width and length must match the center distance of the clutches and sheave width of the drive clu

82MAINTENANCEClutch SystemDrive Belt Removal1. Stop the engine after operating in a forward motion.NOTICE: Do not attempt to remove the drive belt aft

83MAINTENANCEClutch SystemDrive Belt Installation1. Drop the drive belt over the drive clutch and pull back the slack. The belt cord line should be fl

84MAINTENANCEClutch Systemn Drive Belt DeflectionMeasure belt deflection with both clutches at rest and in their full neutral position.Place a straigh

85MAINTENANCETool KitA tool kit is included with each snowmobile for emergency and routine maintenance. Always keep the tool kit with the snowmobile.C

5INTRODUCTIONPreservation of the EnvironmentPOLARIS is committed to supporting an environmental education cam-paign. We encourage state and provincial

86MAINTENANCETrackTrack InspectionWARNING! Broken track rods can cause a rotating track to come off the machine, which could cause serious injury or d

87MAINTENANCETrackTrack LubricationWARNING! Operating with insufficient lubrication between the rail slide and track guide clips can cause track failu

88MAINTENANCETrackMoving parts can cut and crush body parts. When performing the checks and adjustments recommended on the following pages, stay clear

89MAINTENANCETrackTrack TensionIf the track needs adjustment:6. Loosen the rear idler shaft bolt.7. Loosen the locknuts.8. Tighten or loosen the track

90MAINTENANCETrackn Track AlignmentPeriodically check that the track is centered and running evenly on the slide rails. Misalignment will cause excess

91MAINTENANCESteering SystemSteering InspectionEach week, or before a long ride, check fasteners and tighten if neces-sary. Specific fasteners that sh

92MAINTENANCESteering SystemSki AlignmentWARNING! Improper ski alignment or adjustment may cause loss of steering control, resulting in serious injury

93MAINTENANCESteering Systemn Ski SkagsSee your dealer’s studding chart for recommended skags. If you install longer or more aggressive carbide skags

94MAINTENANCESuspension Maintenancen Rail Slide WearFor ease of inspection, all POLARIS rail slides have a wear limit indicator groove to indicate the

95MAINTENANCEBatteryBattery electrolyte is poisonous. It contains acid! Serious burns can result from contact with the skin, eyes, or clothing. If con