Top Tips For Maintaining Your Polaris Snowmobile for Optimal Performance

Polaris snowmobiles are iconic machines that offer an exhilarating riding experience, but owning one also means taking on the responsibility of proper maintenance. Neglecting to maintain your snowmobile can lead to performance issues and costly repairs down the road.

Nobody wants to end up watching their friends ride off into the sunset while their snowmobile is stuck in the garage, so here are some top tips for keeping your Polaris snowmobile running at its best.

Don’t Overlook Pre-Season Preparation

Before the snow starts falling, you have to prepare your Polaris snowmobile for the upcoming season. This is a part of the year when many riders neglect their machines, but it's actually one of the most important times for maintenance.

• Review the Owner's Manual: Start by thoroughly reading your snowmobile's owner's manual. This will provide model-specific maintenance schedules and procedures.
• Inspect and Clean: Remove any protective covers and thoroughly clean your sled. This allows you to inspect for any damage or wear that may have occurred during storage.
• Check Fluids: Top off all necessary fluids, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Ensure you're using the appropriate types recommended by Polaris.
• Examine Fuel System: If you don't use a fuel stabilizer, drain old fuel and replace it with fresh fuel. Check fuel lines for any cracks or leaks.

Track Maintenance

The track is a critical component of your Polaris snowmobile, and proper maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity. The track offers grip, stability, and flotation on the snow, so it's essential to regularly check and maintain it.

• Inspect for Damage: Look for torn lugs, missing chunks, or signs of delamination (separated layers). Also, check for worn, missing, or bent track clips.
• Adjust Alignment: Measure the distance from the edge of the track to a fixed point on each side of the suspension rail. Adjust if there's a difference to ensure the rear suspension is centered within the track.
• Set Tension: Apply about 10 pounds of downward pressure to the track approximately 12 inches in front of the rear axle. There should be roughly a 1.25-inch gap between the track and slide rail. Consult your owner's manual for exact specifications.

Look At Your Ski Alignment

Proper ski alignment is crucial for predictable handling – and those who overlook this important step can end up with sleds that dart, pull or push unpredictably.

• Check Toe-Out: Ensure the skis toe out up to one-quarter of an inch. This means the distance between the ski tips should be slightly more than the distance between the tails.
• Adjust as Needed: If alignment is off, make the necessary adjustments according to your Polaris model's specifications.

Suspension Maintenance

A well-maintained suspension system ensures a smooth ride and protects your snowmobile from unnecessary wear. While Polaris snowmobiles come with durable suspensions, they still require regular maintenance to perform at their best.

• Inspect Components: Elevate the rear end and check the hyfax (slide rails) for adequate wear material. Inspect wheels for cracks or damage, ensuring they spin freely and quietly.
• Check Hardware: Verify that all nuts and bolts in the suspension system are tight.
• Lubricate: Use low-temperature grease designed for snowmobiles to lubricate all grease zerks in the rear suspension. This helps push out moisture and keeps the suspension moving freely.

Drive Belt and Clutch Maintenance

The drive belt and clutches are vital for transferring power from the engine to the track. Never assume that you can simply replace a broken belt and continue riding without any other maintenance. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Inspect the Belt: Look for signs of wear, such as cracks, exposed cords, or thin spots. Replace if necessary.
• Clean and Rejuvenate: If the belt sidewalls are glazed but otherwise in good condition, lightly scrub them with a wire brush or sand them with emery cloth to restore grip.
• Service Clutches: Remove glaze from clutch faces using emery cloth or a scuff pad. Clean thoroughly with warm, soapy water and wipe with isopropyl alcohol or acetone.
• Professional Inspection: Have an experienced mechanic check clutch weights, bushings, rollers, and springs annually.

Chaincase Maintenance

The chaincase is an often-overlooked component that requires regular attention. The chaincase transfers power from the primary clutch to the secondary clutch and, ultimately to the track. It also houses the chain that drives the track. Over time, debris and moisture can build up inside the chaincase, causing it to malfunction or fail.

• Change Oil: Drain old chaincase oil and refill with fresh oil as specified in your Polaris owner's manual.
• Adjust Chain Tension: Follow the procedure outlined in your manual to ensure proper chain tension.

Electrical System Check

A functioning electrical system is crucial for safe and enjoyable riding, especially during night rides. This will prevent any unexpected breakdowns and ensure that all lights and accessories are functioning properly.

• Test Lights: Verify that all lights are working correctly, including high and low headlight beams, tail lights, and brake lights.
• Check Gauges: Ensure all gauge lights are functioning properly.
• Test Hand and Thumb Warmers: These should feel warm after the engine idles for a few minutes.
• Battery Maintenance: If your Polaris model has a battery, ensure it's fully charged and in good condition.

Brake System Maintenance

Safe operation depends on a properly functioning brake system. If you ignore this, you can put yourself and others in danger. Follow these steps to check your brake system:

• Check Fluid: Inspect brake fluid levels and condition. If the fluid is dark or more than a few years old, consider having it replaced by a professional.
• Test Operation: Ensure the brake lever has proper resistance and the brakes engage smoothly.

Fuel System Care

A clean fuel system is essential for optimal engine performance. With fuel prices rising, you don’t want to waste any fuel. Follow these tips for maintaining your fuel system:

• Use Fresh Fuel: Always use fresh, high-quality fuel appropriate for your Polaris model.
• Add Stabilizer: If storing your snowmobile for extended periods, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.
• Check Filters: Regularly inspect and replace fuel filters as recommended in your owner's manual.

Regular Cleaning and Protection

Keeping your Polaris snowmobile clean not only makes it look great but also helps prevent corrosion and allows you to spot potential issues early:

• Wash Regularly: After each ride, wash your snowmobile to remove dirt, salt, and other debris that can cause corrosion.
• Dry Thoroughly: Use a clean cloth or air compressor to dry all components, paying special attention to metal parts.
• Apply Protectant: Use a silicone-based protectant on plastic and rubber components to prevent cracking and fading.
• Cover When Stored: Always use a breathable cover when storing your snowmobile to protect it from dust and debris.

Don’t Risk Your Ride’s Performance and Safety

Maintaining your Polaris snowmobile might seem like a lot of work, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Regular maintenance will make sure that you stay safe while riding and prolong the life of your snowmobile.

At Goats Trail Apparel, we are passionate about snowmobiling and want you to have the best experience possible. That’s why we recommend following these pre-ride checks every time before heading out on your snowmobile. And while you’re at it, stay geared up with the latest snowmobile apparel and accessories from Goats Trail Apparel!