Segment:
High-performance, long-track touring/trail snowmobile.
Competitors 1996:
Ski-Doo Mach Z, Yamaha Vmax-4, Arctic Cat Thundercat.
Performance Orientation:
Emphasis on power delivery, advanced suspension for its era, and long-distance comfort.
Manual Utility:
Designed for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians to maintain and repair the vehicle effectively.
Engine:
Comprehensive engine service, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for all engine variants used in the 1996 Indy Ultra SKS.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment, cleaning, rebuilding, fuel pump operation, fuel line maintenance.
Ignition System:
CDI unit, ignition coils, spark plugs, timing procedures, troubleshooting.
Drive System:
Clutch service (primary and secondary), belt inspection and replacement, chaincase maintenance, gear oil specifications and replacement.
Suspension:
Front suspension (IFS) geometry, shock absorber servicing, ski alignment, track condition and tensioning.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system operation, caliper service, rotor inspection, brake fluid type and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starter motor, battery maintenance, electrical component testing.
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant types, thermostat operation, fan assembly (if applicable).
Chassis And Body:
Frame inspection, seat removal and installation, hood and body panel adjustments.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, lubrication points, track tension adjustment, brake system checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault finding charts, symptom-based problem solving.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and electrical diagnostics.
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed instructions for the removal and installation of components and assemblies.
Adjustments:
Carburetor synchronization, throttle cable adjustment, brake lever play adjustment.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and symptom analysis, enabling identification of complex mechanical and electrical faults.
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilding, including torque specifications and clearances.
Component Level Detail:
In-depth coverage of individual components, their function, maintenance, and repair.
Engine Type:
Two-stroke, liquid-cooled, triple cylinder (typical configuration for Ultra models of this era).
Displacement Cc:
Approx. 794cc (common for the Ultra series of this period).
Bore X Stroke Mm:
Specific to engine variant, but typically around 73mm x 62mm for a 794cc triple.
Horsepower Hp:
Estimated 120-140 HP (depending on specific engine tuning and configuration).
Torque Ft Lbs:
Torque figures vary, but indicative of strong mid-range power for acceleration.
Carburetion:
Triple Mikuni VM series carburetors, typically 38mm or 40mm.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87-91 octane recommended.
Ignition Timing:
Specific timing marks and procedure detailed in the manual.
Oil Injection System:
Reed valve induction with oil injection (or pre-mix depending on specific variant).
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled.
Transmission Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Polaris P-85 primary and P-90 secondary clutches.
Gear Ratios:
Variable ratios managed by CVT clutches; specific engagement and shift points detailed.
Clutch Service:
Detailed procedures for clutch inspection, alignment, weight and spring adjustments, and belt replacement.
Chaincase Fluid:
Gearcase oil specification: Polaris Premium Gearcase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.
Dashboard Features:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, odometer, fuel gauge, and indicator lights.
Starter System:
Electric start (common feature on Ultra models) and recoil starter backup.
Diagnostic Ports:
No sophisticated electronic diagnostic ports; relies on visual inspection, mechanical testing, and multimeter use as detailed in the manual.
Oil Change Chaincase:
Every 100-150 hours or annually. Detailed procedure for draining, filling, and checking level.
Clutch Maintenance:
Inspection of drive belt, clutch sheave condition, and roller lubrication every 50-75 hours.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 100-150 hours or annually for optimal performance.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Clean or replace every 25-50 hours, depending on operating conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
Specifically formulated 2-stroke snowmobile oil, such as Polaris Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil or an API TC, JASO FD certified equivalent.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mixture with distilled water) for -34°F protection.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Track Sprocket Wear:
Wear on track drive sprockets due to mileage and track tension.
Clutch Sheave Wear:
Wear on clutch faces and rollers can affect performance.
Carburetor Icing:
Potential for carburetor icing in very cold or humid conditions.
Suspension Component Wear:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and shock bushings over time.
Polarization:
Polaris is a long-standing American manufacturer known for innovation in powersports, particularly snowmobiles and ATVs.
Indy Series:
The Indy series has a storied history, representing Polaris's core trail and performance sleds. The 'Ultra' designation typically signifies a premium, high-performance model with advanced features.
Manufacturing Era:
Mid-1990s, a period of significant competition and technological advancement in the snowmobile industry.
