Polaris Widetrak LX User Manual

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

97MAINTENANCEBatteryBattery FluidA poorly maintained battery will deteriorate rapidly. Check the battery fluid level often. The fluid level should be

98MAINTENANCEBatteryBattery ConnectionsAlways keep battery terminals and connections free of corrosion. If cleaning is necessary, remove the corrosion

99MAINTENANCEBatteryBattery InstallationUsing a new battery that has not been fully charged can damage the bat-tery and result in a shorter life. It c

100MAINTENANCEBatteryBattery StorageWhen your snowmobile is placed in storage for one month or more (in summer or in winter):• Remove the battery.• Ch

101MAINTENANCEDaily StorageAt the end of each ride, park the snowmobile on a level surface and support it at the rear with an appropriate track stand.

102MAINTENANCEExtended StorageOff-season or extended storage of your snowmobile requires preventive measures to aid against deterioration and to prolo

103MAINTENANCEExtended StorageEngine and Carburetor ProtectionUsing a fuel stabilizer and topping off the fuel tank eliminates the need to drain the f

104MAINTENANCEExtended StorageElectrical ConnectionsSeparate electrical connector blocks and clean corrosive build-up from connectors. Lubricate or pa

105POLARIS PRODUCTSPart No.DescriptionEngine Lubricants2870791 Fogging Oil (12 oz. Aerosol)2871098 Premium 2-Cycle Engine Oil (qt.)2871097 Premium 2-C

106SUSPENSION TROUBLESHOOTINGProblem Solution (perform only one change at a time)Rear suspension bot-toms too easily• Verify sag dimension (see page 9

8SAFETYOperator SafetyYour Polaris snowmobile is a well-engineered and well-constructed rec-reational vehicle. Follow the recommended maintenance prog

107TROUBLESHOOTINGBelt Wear/Burn TroubleshootingBelt Wear/Burn DiagnosisCauses SolutionsDriving at low RPM Drive at higher RPMs. Gear the machine down

108TROUBLESHOOTINGEngine TroubleshootingNOTE: Unless you have experience and training in two-cycle engine repair, see your dealer if technical problem

109TROUBLESHOOTINGEngine TroubleshootingProblem Probable Cause SolutionNoise in drive systemBroken drive clutch components• SEE YOUR DEALER.Bearing fa

110TROUBLESHOOTINGEngine TroubleshootingProblem Probable Cause SolutionEngine turns but fails to startFaulty ignition • Remove spark plug(s) and repla

111WARRANTYService And Warranty InformationObtaining Service and Warranty AssistanceRead and understand the service data and the Polaris warranty info

112WARRANTYService And Warranty InformationPolaris Anti-Theft SystemThe Polaris anti-theft system (PATS) monitoring program is designed to aid owners

113WARRANTYLimited WarrantyPolaris Sales Inc., 2100 Highway 55, Medina, MN 55340, provides a ONE YEAR LIM-ITED WARRANTY on all components of the Polar

114WARRANTYLimitations of warranties and remediesALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FI

115WARRANTYConditions and ExclusionsIn order to qualify for warranty, the product must have been properly set up and tested by a Polaris Dealer (if ap

116WARRANTYPolaris Second Year Engine Service ContractSecond Year Engine Service Contract is standard on all eligible new and unused snow-mobiles that

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

117WARRANTYExported VehiclesEXCEPT WHERE SPECIFICALLY REQUIRED BY LAW, THERE IS NO WAR-RANTY OR SERVICE BULLETIN COVERAGE ON THIS VEHICLE IF IT IS SOL

118WARRANTYSnowmobile Engine Emissions Limited WarrantyThis snowmobile engine emissions limited warranty is in addition to the Polaris standard limite

119WARRANTYSnowmobile Engine Emissions Limited WarrantyThis limited warranty excludes failures not caused by a defect in material or workmanship. This

120MAINTENANCE LOGPresent this section of your manual to your dealer each time your snow-mobile is serviced. This will provide you and future owners w

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

122MAINTENANCE LOGDATE MILES(KM)TECHNICIAN SERVICE PERFORMED / COMMENTS

123MAINTENANCE LOGDATE MILES(KM)TECHNICIAN SERVICE PERFORMED / COMMENTS

124INDEXAAccessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Air Box Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Air Pollution . . . . . . . . . . .

125INDEXLLever, Shift (Mechanical Reverse) . . 57Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80-81Headlight Adjustment . . . . . . . . 80Lubr

126INDEXTThrottle Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39, 55Throttle Safety Switch . . . . . . . . 39, 54Tool Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

11SAFETYOperator SafetyRiding ApparelBe prepared, be warm and be com-fortable when riding. Be aware of the weather forecast, especially the windchill,

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

13SAFETYExcessive SpeedObserve all state and local laws governing snowmobile operation. They’ve been established for your protection.Always be alert a

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

16SAFETYOperator SafetyIce and Snow Build-upBefore driving, manually turn the skis to the left and right to be sure ice and snow are not interfering w

17SAFETYOperator SafetyDriving in Hilly TerrainOperating in hilly terrain requires extreme caution to maintain balance and avoid roll-over. If climbin

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

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

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 Decals and LocationsWarning decals have been placed on the snowmobile for your protec-tion. Read and follow the instructions of the dec

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

25SAFETYSafety Decals and LocationsOperation WarningAn operation warning decal is present on the console of all Polaris snowmobiles:WARNING• To avoid

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

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

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 adjust-able for either operator or passenger 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 AdjustmentsThe tension at which the shock coil spring is set is called spring preload. For the best ride, the spring

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 AdjustmentsRear Spring SettingsRear spring adjustment is primarily a control for riding comfort. To check fo

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

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

1WELCOMEThank you for purchasing a Polaris vehicle, and welcome to our world-wide family of Polaris owners. We proudly produce an exciting line of uti

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 BrakesProperly functioning brakes are critical to your safety. Always check the following

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

46OPERATIONEngine Break-InNo single action on your part is as important to long, trouble-free machine life as proper break-in of a new or rebuilt engi

2POLARIS and POLARIS THE WAY OUT are registered trademarks of Polaris Indus-tries Inc.Copyright 2008 Polaris Sales Inc. All information contained with

47OPERATIONEngine Break-InOil Injection SystemAlways check and fill the oil tank when refueling. See page 50.NOTICE: Serious engine damage can occur w

48OPERATIONTrack Warm-UpFollow these steps to ensure proper warm-up of the engine, drive train and track.1. Use an appropriate stand to securely sup-p

49OPERATIONFuel Your Polaris engine is designed to run on 87 octane non-oxygenated or 89 octane oxygenated pump gasoline. There’s a great deal of vari

50OPERATIONFuel Reserve Capacity (Mechanical Gauge)There are approximately two gallons of fuel left in the tank when the mechanical fuel gauge reads R

51OPERATIONn OilLow Oil Indicator LightThe low oil indicator light will indicate when to add oil. See page 47 for oil recommendations.When the low oil

52OPERATIONn OilLow Oil LevelAlways do a visual check of the oil level when refueling. When the oil reaches the low level mark, add one U.S. quart of

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 LeverIf the engine stops abruptly when the throttle lever is released:1. Turn the ignition switch to OFF.2. Visually inspect the

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

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

57OPERATIONEmergency StartingYour machine is equipped with a tool kit containing essential tools for emergency use. Snowmobiles equipped with electric

58OPERATIONTo w i n gDo 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

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

60MAINTENANCEEmission Control InformationOwner's ResponsibilitiesPlease read the Snowmobile Engine Emissions Limited Warranty, and read the maint

61MAINTENANCEPolaris Recommended Maintenance ProgramTo ensure many trouble-free miles of snowmobiling enjoyment, follow recommended regular maintenanc

62MAINTENANCEPeriodic Maintenance Interval TableThe following chart is a guide based on average riding conditions. You may need to increase frequency

63MAINTENANCEPeriodic Maintenance Interval TableI - Inspect (clean, adjust, tighten, lubricate, replace if necessary)C - Clean R - Replace L - Lubrica

64MAINTENANCEPeriodic Maintenance Interval TableI - Inspect (clean, adjust, tighten, lubricate, replace if necessary)C - Clean R - Replace L - Lubrica

65MAINTENANCEPeriodic Maintenance Interval TableI - Inspect (clean, adjust, tighten, lubricate, replace if necessary)C - Clean R - Replace L - Lubrica

66MAINTENANCELubricationSuspension and SteeringLubricate the suspension and steering components with Polaris Pre-mium All-Season Grease at 500 miles (

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

67MAINTENANCELubricationRear SuspensionWideTrak Rear Suspension+++++

68MAINTENANCELubricationJackshaft BearingThe jackshaft bearing on your model may be equipped with a grease fit-ting, but this component is greased for

69MAINTENANCELubricationn Gearcase Oil Level (WideTrak)Check the gearcase oil level at the intervals outlined in the maintenance charts beginning on p

70MAINTENANCESpark PlugsIt’s very important to use the correct spark plug for your machine. A spark plug with a heat range too high will cause engine

71MAINTENANCESpark PlugsSpark plug condition is indicative of engine operation. The spark plug firing end condition should be read after the engine ha

72MAINTENANCEIntake FilterThe intake foam filter and screen limits snow ingestion into the intake system. When operating in loose powder snow, check t

73MAINTENANCECarburetorWater/Sediment Trap ServiceMost Polaris snowmobiles contain patented carburetor bowl water/sedi-ment traps located at the botto

74MAINTENANCECarburetorThe number stamped in the end of the main jet indicates the jet size. The jet installed at the time of manufacture is not neces

75MAINTENANCEFuel Filter/Fuel LinesThe fuel filter is located inside the fuel tank. This component requires no maintenance.Inspect the fuel lines regu

76MAINTENANCEExhaust SystemCheck the exhaust system for wear or damage at approximately 1000 miles (1600 km). To inspect, allow the engine and exhaust

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

77MAINTENANCEBrakesn Hydraulic Brake InspectionInspect the brake lever reserve before each use of the snowmobile. See page 40.Brake pads must be repla

78MAINTENANCEBrakesBrake FluidNOTICE: Brake fluid will damage decals, paint and some plastics. Always wipe up spills immediately.The brake fluid level

79MAINTENANCEBrakesBleeding the Hydraulic Brake SystemAir in the hydraulic brake system will cause spongy brake lever action. Bleed the system before

80MAINTENANCELightsHeadlight AdjustmentThe headlight may be adjusted for vertical aim using the following pro-cedure:1. Place the snowmobile on a leve

81MAINTENANCELightsNOTE: Avoid touching a halogen bulb with bare fingers. Oil from skin leaves a residue, causing a hot spot that will shorten the lif

82MAINTENANCEClutch SystemPeriodically inspect the clutch sheaves for damage, wear, or belt resi-due. To maintain optimum performance, clean with non-

83MAINTENANCEClutch Systemn Drive Belt ConditionBelt width and length must match the center distance of the clutches and sheave width of the drive clu

84MAINTENANCEClutch SystemDrive Belt Removal1. Stop the engine after operating in a forward motion.2. Turn the ignition key off. Wait for the engine t

85MAINTENANCEClutch SystemDrive Belt Installation1. Drop the drive belt over the drive clutch and pull back the slack.NOTE: To ensure satisfactory bel

86MAINTENANCEClutch Systemn Drive Belt DeflectionMeasure belt deflection with both clutches at rest and in their full neutral position.Place a straigh

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

87MAINTENANCEClutch SystemTo r q u e S t o pPeriodically check torque stop clearance. With clutches in proper alignment, the torque stop clearance sh

88MAINTENANCETr a ckTrack Inspection1. Using a hoist, safely lift and support the rear of the snowmobile off the ground.2. Rotate the track by hand to

89MAINTENANCETr a ckTrack LubricationThe slide rail requires adequate snow cover for sufficient lubrication. Excessive wear indicates insufficient lub

90MAINTENANCETr a ckTrack TensionTrack adjustment is critical for proper handling. Always maintain cor-rect tension and alignment. Tension adjustments

91MAINTENANCETr a ckTrack TensionIf the track needs adjustment:5. Loosen the rear idler shaft bolt.6. Loosen the locknuts.7. Tighten or loosen the tra

92MAINTENANCETr a ckn Track AlignmentPeriodically check that the track is centered and running evenly on the slide rails. Misalignment will cause exce

93MAINTENANCESteering SystemSteering InspectionEach week, or before a long ride, check fasteners and tighten if neces-sary. Specific fasteners that sh

94MAINTENANCESteering SystemSki AlignmentWith the handlebars in a straight-ahead position, and with vehicle weight compressing the suspension, measure

95MAINTENANCESteering Systemn Ski SkagsCheck skags weekly to maintain positive steering characteristics. Skags must be replaced when worn to half thei

96MAINTENANCESuspension Maintenancen Rail Slide WearFor ease of inspection, all Polaris rail slides have a wear limit indicator groove to indicate the