Segment:
Trail/Performance Snowmobile
Competitors 1981:
Arctic Cat Jag/El Tigre, Yamaha Exciter, Ski-Doo Olympique.
Features Of Model:
Known for its reliable Polaris engine, responsive handling, and comfortable rider position for its era.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, saving money and ensuring longevity of the vintage machine.
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, tuning, troubleshooting, carburetor adjustment, cooling system, lubrication.
Transmission:
Clutch systems (drive and driven), belt inspection, adjustment, and replacement, gearbox maintenance.
Suspension:
Front suspension (trailing arm, shocks), rear suspension (bogey wheel, tracks, idlers), adjustments, and common wear items.
Brakes:
Brake system operation, hydraulic system, caliper and master cylinder service, pad replacement, bleeding.
Electrical:
Ignition system, lighting, wiring diagrams, stator, CDI unit, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Chassis And Body:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat, windshield, handlebars, and controls.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, oil changes, spark plug replacement, track tension adjustment, lubrication points.
Repair:
Component-level repair for engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and electrical systems.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common operational issues and failures.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for disassembling and reassembling major components and sub-assemblies.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic routine maintenance to major component overhauls and rebuilds.
Engine Type:
2-stroke, Twin-Cylinder, Fan-Cooled
Engine Displacement:
Likely around 340cc or 440cc depending on the specific TX-L variant, common for this era. Manual will detail exact displacement.
Horsepower Estimate:
Approx. 30-45 HP (Varies by exact engine size and tuning)
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni carburetors (specific model number to be confirmed in manual, e.g., VM30 or VM32).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline with 2-stroke oil pre-mix.
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) system.
Cooling System:
Fan cooling.
Clutch System Drive:
Polaris variable ratio drive clutch.
Clutch System Driven:
Polaris variable ratio driven clutch.
Belt Drive:
V-belt drive system between clutches.
Gearbox:
Chain-driven gearbox with forward and neutral gears (reverse typically not standard on this model).
Overall Length:
Approx. 90-95 inches (Varies slightly, manual will confirm).
Overall Width:
Approx. 38-40 inches (Varies slightly, manual will confirm).
Dry Weight:
Approx. 370-400 lbs (Varies by engine size and features, manual will confirm).
Dashboard:
Basic instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer, engine temperature light, oil light (if applicable).
Choke:
Manual choke system for cold starts.
Lighting System:
Headlight and taillight, powered by the engine's stator.
Clutch Inspection:
Recommended inspection of drive and driven clutches at the beginning of each season and after approximately 1000 miles or 100 hours.
Engine Tune Up:
Recommended annual engine tune-up including spark plug replacement, carburetor cleaning/adjustment, and ignition timing check.
Track Tension:
Check and adjust track tension at recommended intervals or if slippage is observed.
2 Stroke Oil:
Specific 2-stroke snowmobile oil blend recommended by Polaris. Manual will specify API/TCW ratings and brands.
Chaincase Oil:
Specific gear oil for the chaincase. Manual will specify viscosity and capacity, e.g., SAE 80W-90.
Carburetor Fouling:
Common issue with vintage sleds due to fuel quality and storage; manual provides cleaning and tuning procedures.
Clutch Wear:
Drive and driven clutch rollers, buttons, and springs can wear over time, affecting performance. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings can degrade and require replacement for optimal handling.
Polarismotorsports:
Polaris Industries has a long-standing reputation in snowmobiling, founded in 1954, known for innovation and performance.
Tx L Lineage:
The TX-L Indy was part of Polaris's popular Indy line, known for its balance of performance and rider comfort, evolving from earlier TX models.
Production Era:
The 1981 model year was a significant year for Polaris, with the Indy line being a strong performer in the market.