Segment:
Performance-oriented touring snowmobile of the early 1980s.
Target Audience:
Snowmobile enthusiasts seeking reliable performance and touring comfort for recreational and longer-distance riding.
Key Competitors Era:
Arctic Cat, Yamaha, Polaris snowmobiles of similar displacement and intended use.
Engine Layout:
Rotax twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled two-stroke engine.
Chassis Design:
Likely a more advanced chassis for its time, offering improved handling and rider comfort compared to earlier models.
Transmission Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with centrifugal clutch system.
Suspension Features:
Independent front suspension and a robust rear suspension system designed for varied snow conditions.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the 500cc engine.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment and servicing, fuel pump operation, fuel lines.
Ignition System:
CDI unit, ignition coil, spark plugs, timing.
Cooling System:
Liquid cooling system operation, radiator, thermostat, coolant specifications.
Drive System:
Clutch operation (primary and secondary), belt inspection and replacement, chaincase, gear lubrication.
Suspension System:
Front suspension (swing arm, shocks, springs), rear suspension (bogie wheel assembly, shocks, springs).
Braking System:
Brake caliper, rotor, brake lines, fluid specifications, adjustment.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starter, battery, alternator/stator.
Bodywork And Chassis:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat, handlebars, windshield.
Track System:
Track inspection, tension adjustment, idler wheels.
Routine Maintenance:
Lubrication points, cleaning procedures, belt inspection, spark plug replacement, track tensioning.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common starting issues, engine performance problems, electrical faults.
Engine Repair:
Piston ring replacement, cylinder head service, crankshaft inspection, gasket replacement.
Transmission Service:
Clutch adjustment, belt replacement, chaincase oil change and inspection.
Suspension Rebuild:
Shock absorber replacement, suspension arm bushing replacement, spring adjustment.
Brake Service:
Brake pad replacement, brake fluid flush and replacement, caliper servicing.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Using wiring diagrams to diagnose electrical issues, testing components.
Carburetor Tuning:
Idle speed adjustment, jetting recommendations for different conditions.
Track Replacement:
Step-by-step guide for removing and installing the snowmobile track.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and chassis overhauls.
Engine Configuration:
Parallel-twin cylinder
Displacement:
Approximately 497cc (based on the '500' designation, precise bore/stroke would be in the manual).
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower Estimate:
Estimated 45-55 HP (typical for this class and era, exact figures in manual).
Torque Estimate:
Torque figures would be available in detailed specifications within the manual.
Carburetor Type:
Likely dual Mikuni or similar side-draft carburetors (specific model numbers in manual).
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Regular unleaded gasoline mixed with two-stroke oil (specific ratio and octane rating in manual).
Oil Type Recommendation:
High-quality two-stroke snowmobile oil (specific API classification or brand recommendation in manual).
Safety Standards Era:
Adherence to snowmobile safety standards prevalent in 1982.
Braking System Type:
Hydraulic disc brake, likely single caliper on the drive shaft.
Kill Switch:
Standard emergency engine stop (tether cord type not specified but common).
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light for visibility.
Oil Change Chaincase:
Intervals typically range from 100-200 operating hours or annually; specific in manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended at specified intervals, e.g., every 50-100 hours or annually.
Clutch Inspection:
Regular inspection of drive belt for wear and proper tension.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze for liquid-cooled engines; specific mixture ratio in manual.
Chaincase Oil Type:
GL-5 80W-90 gear oil or equivalent recommended; exact specification in manual.
Carburetor Clogging:
Common with older fuel systems, requires regular cleaning and proper fuel storage.
Track Wear:
Wear on track lugs and carcass due to age and usage, requires inspection.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear on suspension pivot points and bushings can lead to steering looseness.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or looseness in electrical connectors can cause intermittent issues.
Manufacturer:
Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), parent company of Ski-Doo.
Ski Doo Legacy:
Ski-Doo is a pioneer and iconic brand in the snowmobile industry, known for innovation.
Futura Series:
The Futura line represented a move towards more comfortable, longer-distance touring snowmobiles for Ski-Doo.
1980S Snowmobile Trends:
Increased focus on rider comfort, engine power, and improved suspension systems.
Production Period:
The Futura 500-E was produced for a specific period within the early to mid-1980s.
