Snowmobile Segment:
Mid-range performance trail snowmobile, popular for its blend of power and agility in the 1980s.
Key Competitors:
Arctic Cat Panther/Jaguar, Ski-Doo Tundra/Safari, Yamaha Bravo/Exciter (depending on specific 400 model configuration and target market).
Engine Type:
Likely a 398cc to 440cc class, fan-cooled, two-stroke, twin-cylinder engine, a common configuration for Polaris in this era.
Suspension Design:
Often featured independent front suspension (IFS) for improved ride comfort and handling, and a capable rear skid frame suspension.
Transmission Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with a centrifugal clutch system.
Systems Covered:
Engine, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical system, bodywork, track system, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Page Count:
Exact page count not specified, but typical factory service manuals for this era are between 300-600 pages.
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine teardown, inspection, assembly, and troubleshooting procedures for the 400cc engine.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Clutch systems (primary and secondary), drive chain, gearbox lubrication, and related component service.
Suspension And Steering:
Front suspension (IFS if applicable), rear suspension (skid frame), shock absorbers, steering linkage, skis, and carbides.
Brakes:
Brake system components, hydraulic lines, caliper service, brake disc replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Ignition system (CDI), lighting, starter motor, battery maintenance, wiring diagrams, and component testing.
Fuel System:
Carburetor identification, disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, fuel lines, fuel pump, and fuel tank service.
Cooling System:
Engine cooling (fan-cooled or liquid-cooled depending on specific 400 variant), radiator, hoses, and thermostat.
Lubrication System:
Oil injection system (if applicable), crankcase lubrication, and gearcase lubrication.
Bodywork And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, chassis inspection, seat, handlebars, and controls.
Routine Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks such as spark plug replacement, chain adjustment, lubrication, and filter checks.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common operating problems.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major components.
Specification Charts:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, and fluid capacities.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for diagnosing and repairing electrical issues.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to full engine and drivetrain rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic capabilities, including symptom-based troubleshooting and component testing methods.
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and component rebuilding, including part specifications.
Engine Type:
Two-stroke, twin-cylinder, piston-ported (typical for this era).
Displacement:
Approximately 398cc - 440cc (specific variant dependent).
Cooling System:
Fan-cooled (most common for this class in 1985).
Horsepower Estimate:
Estimated 40-50 horsepower (typical for a 400cc class fan-cooled two-stroke of this period).
Torque Estimate:
Estimated 30-40 ft-lbs (dependent on specific tuning and RPM).
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni VM or similar constant-velocity carburetors (e.g., 30-34mm).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, typically requiring a mix of gasoline and 2-stroke oil for lubrication (pre-mix or oil injection).
Transmission Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Polaris' own clutch system (e.g., P-85 primary, P-90 secondary).
Optional Transmissions:
N/A for this model year; CVT was standard.
Drive System:
Chain drive to the track.
Gear Reduction:
Integrated into the drive clutch system and a final drive gearbox.
Clutch Engagement Rpm:
Typically around 2500-3000 RPM for the primary clutch engagement.
Safety Standards:
Designed to meet snowmobile safety standards of the era; no formal crash ratings as with automobiles.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake (usually on the drive shaft).
Engine Kill Switch:
Standard handlebar-mounted kill switch.
Windshield:
Standard windshield for rider protection.
Handguards:
Often equipped with handguards for protection from elements and debris.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 1,500-2,500 miles or annually, depending on usage and plug type. (Refer to manual for specific plug gap and type).
Drive Chain Lubrication:
Recommended after every few rides or as needed, especially in wet or dirty conditions.
Clutch Inspection:
Annually or every 1,000 miles, checking for wear on belt, buttons, and ramps.
2 Stroke Oil Type:
Specific high-quality, synthetic or semi-synthetic 2-stroke snowmobile oil (e.g., Polaris brand or equivalent API TC-W3 rated).
Gearcase Oil:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, typically SAE 80W-90. Capacity around 150-200 ml.
Coolant Type:
If liquid-cooled variant: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Carburetor Icing:
Common issue in cold, humid conditions; requires proper jetting or anti-icing additives.
Clutch Belt Wear:
Drive belts can wear prematurely if not maintained, or if clutch alignment is off.
Engine Seals:
Crankshaft seals can degrade over time, leading to air leaks and poor running conditions.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber bushings in the suspension can wear out, causing play and reduced handling.