Vehicle Segment:
High-performance, mountain-oriented snowmobile (RMK designation indicates a focus on backcountry and deep snow riding).
Key Competitors:
Competed against other mountain sleds from Ski-Doo (Summit), Arctic Cat (M-series), and Yamaha (Phazer/Nytro, depending on specific comparisons).
Powertrain:
Powerful 700cc Liberty twin-cylinder engine, optimized for the RMK chassis.
Chassis Design:
RMK chassis designed for agility, deep snow flotation, and climbing capability, featuring a long track (163 inches).
Suspension Travel:
Long-travel suspension systems designed for absorbing large impacts and maintaining traction in varied terrain.
Engine System:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for the 700cc Liberty engine, including top-end, bottom-end, fuel and ignition systems.
Transmission System:
Clutch inspection, adjustment, replacement, and drive/driven clutch service. CVT system maintenance and troubleshooting.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension geometry, shock absorber service, linkage maintenance, and track system inspection.
Braking System:
Hydraulic brake system, caliper service, master cylinder, brake fluid replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, starter system, ignition system, lighting, and accessory electrical circuits.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter, carburetor (if applicable) or fuel injection system, and fuel tank service.
Cooling System:
Coolant type, capacity, radiator, hoses, water pump service, and bleeding procedures.
Chassis And Body:
Frame integrity, body panel removal and installation, seat service, and handlebard/steering assembly.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, pre-ride inspections, post-ride checks, lubrication, and fluid changes.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and uncommon issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds and component overhauls.
Component Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed instructions for taking apart and reassembling all key components, with torque specifications.
Special Tool Identification:
Lists and illustrations of specialized tools required for specific repairs and adjustments.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including electrical system testing and component troubleshooting.
Rebuild Information:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including specifications and tolerances.
Customization Support:
While primarily a repair manual, it may offer insights into compatible modifications or settings.
Engine Type:
2-stroke, Twin-cylinder, Liquid-cooled (Polaris Liberty engine)
Displacement:
700cc (approx. 700 cubic centimeters)
Bore X Stroke:
Specifics would be detailed in the manual, typical for a 700cc twin.
Horsepower:
Approximately 130-140 HP (typical range for this era's 700cc Liberty twin in a performance sled).
Torque:
Specific torque figures would be in the manual, optimized for mid-range power delivery.
Fuel Delivery:
Likely carbureted (VM40 or similar) or potentially early EFI depending on specific variant. Manual will specify.
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) or similar electronic ignition system.
Oil Delivery:
Autolube (automatic oil injection system) or premix. Manual will specify.
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Transmission Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Polaris P-85 Drive Clutch and P-90 Primary Clutch (or similar) for 2008.
Gear Reduction:
Integrated into the CVT system and chaincase. Specific ratios found in manual.
Clutch Tuning:
Manual covers clutch calibration, weights, springs, and helix for optimal performance in various snow conditions.
Chaincase Maintenance:
Procedures for checking and changing chaincase oil, chain tension, and sprocket inspection.
Track Length:
163 inches (as per model name)
Track Width:
Typically 15 inches for RMK models.
Lug Height:
Likely 2.25 inches or 2.375 inches for deep snow traction.
Dry Weight:
Approximately 480-500 lbs (estimate, exact figure in manual).
Ski Stance:
Specific value available in manual, designed for stability in rough terrain.
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Snowmobiles are not subject to automotive crash test ratings.)
Braking System Type:
Hydraulic disc brake, typically with a single caliper on the drive shaft.
Throttle Control:
Thumb throttle with adjustable tension and safety lever.
Engine Kill Switch:
Standard handlebar-mounted kill switch.
Rollover Protection:
None inherent to the design; rider technique is paramount.
Lighting:
Headlights, taillight, and brake light for visibility.
Instrument Cluster:
Digital or analog gauge cluster displaying speed, RPM, fuel level, oil temp, and warning lights.
ABS Or Traction Control:
N/A (Not typically found on this class of performance snowmobile from this era).
Gps Or Navigation:
N/A (External GPS units could be added, but not integrated).
Oil Change Interval:
Detailed in manual, typically based on mileage or operating hours, especially for chaincase oil.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Specific intervals and spark plug part numbers provided in the manual.
Clutch Inspection:
Regular inspection recommended, especially before and after heavy use seasons. Manual details wear limits.
Track Tension Adjustment:
Recommended periodic checks and adjustments to maintain proper tension and prevent damage.
Engine Oil Type:
Specific 2-stroke synthetic blend or full synthetic oil for Polaris Liberty engines (manual will specify exact grade and API rating).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Manual specifies mix ratio and capacity.
Chaincase Oil Type:
Specific SAE viscosity grade gear oil for the chaincase (e.g., SAE 80W-90). Manual will list the exact specification and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (typical).
Common Wear Items:
Drive belts, clutch components (rollers, bushings), suspension bushings, and track lugs can be common wear items depending on usage.
Engine Specific Considerations:
Proper pre-mix or autolube function is critical for 2-stroke longevity. Overheating can be an issue if cooling system is compromised.
Polaris History:
Polaris Industries is a long-standing American manufacturer known for snowmobiles, ATVs, and other powersports vehicles, established in 1954.
Rmk Lineage:
The RMK (Rising Mountain King) line has a history of innovation in mountain snowmobile design, focusing on lightweight construction and deep snow capability.
2008 Model Context:
The 2008 RMK represented a continuation of Polaris's commitment to the mountain segment, building upon previous generations with refinements in engine, chassis, and suspension.
Manufacturing Location:
Polaris snowmobiles are primarily manufactured in Roseau, Minnesota, USA.
