Positioning:
The 1997 Polaris Indy 500 RMK was positioned as a capable mountain and trail riding snowmobile, emphasizing performance and versatility in varied snow conditions.
Competitors:
Competed against models from Ski-Doo (Mach Z, Formula series), Arctic Cat (Thundercat, ZR series), and Yamaha (Phazer, Vmax series) in the performance and crossover segments.
Rmk Features:
RMK (Ridgeline Mountain King) designation implies enhanced suspension travel, track length, and chassis designed for deeper snow and off-trail performance compared to standard trail sleds.
Engine Type:
Known for its reliable and potent 500cc liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine, providing a good balance of power and efficiency.
Primary Coverage:
Complete service, repair, and maintenance for the 1997 Polaris Indy 500 RMK
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, diagnostics, technical specifications, electrical diagrams, component replacement
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (as indicated by product description)
Type:
Service/Shop Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Instant Download)
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, carburetor service, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication
Drivetrain:
Clutch systems (primary and secondary), chaincase, drive chain adjustment and replacement, torque limiter
Suspension:
Front suspension (IFS), rear suspension (RMK specific features), shock absorber service, track system inspection and maintenance
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system service, caliper overhaul, pad replacement, fluid bleeding
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition system, starter system, battery maintenance, troubleshooting electrical faults
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, carburetor (Mikuni VM series likely), jetting specifications
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, seat, handlebars, controls, chassis inspection and repair
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, oil changes, spark plug replacement, track tension adjustment, lubrication points
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, suspension component replacement, clutch calibration, brake system repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, identification of common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Diagnostics:
Engine performance diagnostics, electrical system troubleshooting, clutch performance analysis
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine teardowns and rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and clearances.
Engine Type:
Liquid-Cooled, 2-Stroke, Twin-Cylinder
Displacement:
Approx. 499cc
Bore X Stroke:
Refer to manual for exact specifications (typical for this era: around 70mm x 64mm)
Compression Ratio:
Refer to manual for exact specifications (typically around 7.0:1 to 7.5:1 for this era)
Horsepower:
Approximately 80-90 HP (estimated for 1997 Indy 500 EFI/Carbureted models, exact spec in manual)
Torque:
Refer to manual for exact specifications
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni VM series carburetors (likely VM34 or VM38, manual will specify)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane recommended (check manual for specific recommendations)
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
System:
Autolube (Oil Injection System)
Oil Type:
Specific 2-stroke synthetic or semi-synthetic oil recommended by Polaris (refer to manual for exact specification, e.g., Polaris VES oil or equivalent)
Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Polaris P-85 primary and P-90 secondary clutches
Optional Transmissions:
N/A (CVT was standard for this model)
Clutch Calibration:
Manual provides detailed information on clutch calibration, roller weights, spring tension, and engagement/shift speeds for optimal performance.
Chaincase Oil:
Manual specifies type and capacity of chaincase lubricant (typically SAE 80W-90 gear oil or a specific Polaris blend).
Track Length:
RMK models typically featured longer tracks than standard trail sleds, likely around 133.5 inches or longer (refer to manual for exact spec).
Track Width:
Standard track width of 15 inches
Ski Stance:
Refer to manual for exact specification (typically adjustable or around 42-43 inches).
Dry Weight:
Approximately 460-480 lbs (estimated, actual weight may vary based on features and equipment).
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Snowmobiles are not subjected to standardized automotive crash testing.)
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake system
Kill Switch:
Standard engine kill switch lanyard
Headlight:
Halogen headlight for improved visibility
Taillight:
Brake-activated taillight
Gauge Cluster:
Basic analog gauges: Speedometer, Tachometer, Engine Temperature, Fuel Level. Manual details calibration and troubleshooting.
N/A:
No electronic driver assistance features common in modern vehicles.
N/A:
No electronic connectivity features.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific intervals; typically based on mileage or operating hours, and autolube system checks.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; usually every 2,000-4,000 miles or annually.
Clutch Maintenance:
Regular inspection of clutch sheaves, rollers, bushings, and springs is critical for performance and longevity. Manual provides guidance.
Track Tension:
Regularly check and adjust track tension according to manual specifications to prevent damage and ensure proper traction.
Coolant:
Proprietary or compatible 50/50 antifreeze/water mix (refer to manual for exact type and capacity).
Chaincase Oil Spec:
SAE 80W-90 Gear Oil or equivalent Polaris-specified lubricant.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (refer to manual for exact specification).
Engine Wear:
Potential for piston/ring wear on high-mileage units. Manual covers inspection and rebuild procedures.
Clutch Issues:
Wear on clutch components (rollers, bushings, helix) can lead to poor performance. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Suspension Components:
Wear in front and rear suspension bushings and bearings is common and addressed in the manual.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors may require periodic cleaning and tuning for optimal performance at different altitudes and temperatures. Manual provides detailed procedures.
Polaris History:
Polaris Industries, founded in 1954, is a long-standing American manufacturer known for its leadership in snowmobiles, ATVs, and motorcycles. The Indy line has been a cornerstone of their snowmobile offerings for decades.
Indy Line Evolution:
The Indy 500 was a popular model throughout the 1990s, evolving with engine technology, suspension designs (including the advent of IFS), and chassis improvements. The RMK variant specifically targeted the growing demand for mountain and backcountry riding.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in the United States by Polaris Industries.
