Segment:
Performance Crossover Snowmobile
Competitors 2008:
Ski-Doo Summit, Arctic Cat M-Series, Yamaha Phazer MTX
Switchback Design:
Designed for versatility, capable of both trail riding and off-trail/mountain exploration.
Engine Performance:
Known for strong mid-range and top-end power delivery from the Liberty 600 engine.
Suspension Technology:
Features the Polaris IQ Front Independent Suspension (IFS) and the PRO RIDE™ rear suspension for improved ride quality and handling.
Powertrain:
Engine, fuel system, exhaust, cooling, drivetrain, clutch, drive/driven sprockets, chaincase
Chassis And Suspension:
Front suspension (IQ IFS), rear suspension (PRO RIDE™), skis, track, frame, steering system, controls
Electrical And Ignition:
Ignition system, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, battery, wiring diagrams, sensors
Bodywork And Ergonomics:
Body panels, seat, handlebars, windshield, storage
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, inspection, cleaning
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, common problem resolution
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine rebuild, transmission service, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, clutch service
Assembly And Disassembly:
Complete step-by-step instructions for disassembly and reassembly of all major components
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to complete engine and driveline overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Type:
Two-stroke, parallel-twin cylinder
Engine Family:
Polaris Liberty
Displacement:
599 cc (36.6 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
73.9 mm x 71.5 mm (2.91 in x 2.81 in)
Horsepower Est:
120 HP (approximate, varies slightly by tuning)
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (EFI) - Cleanfire®
Recommended Fuel:
Minimum 91 octane unleaded gasoline
Oil Injection:
Yes, automatic oil injection system
Ignition Type:
Digital CDI with throttle position sensor (TPS)
Drive System:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Clutch System:
Polaris P-85 Primary Clutch, Polaris Roller Secondary Clutch (AWS)
Gear Reduction:
Chaincase with various gear ratios depending on model configuration and track length.
Drive Belt:
Specific CVT belt P/N will be detailed in the manual for replacement.
Safety Standards:
Meets applicable ANSI standards for snowmobiles.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake with braided stainless steel lines.
Engine Braking:
Engaged via CVT clutch calibration.
Kill Switch:
Handlebar-mounted emergency stop switch with tether cord.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, taillight, and brake light.
Instrumentation:
Digital LCD display with speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature, odometer, trip meter, and diagnostic indicators.
Engine Management:
Cleanfire® EFI provides optimal fuel and ignition mapping for various conditions.
Diagnostic Port:
Vehicle has a diagnostic port for connection to Polaris diagnostic tools, detailed in the manual.
Initial Break In:
Specific break-in procedure and mileage/hour recommendations outlined in the manual.
Oil Change:
Recommended oil and filter change intervals based on operating hours or mileage, detailed in the manual.
Clutch Maintenance:
Regular inspection and cleaning of primary and secondary clutches are critical for performance and longevity.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals for spark plug inspection and replacement will be specified.
Engine Oil Type:
Polaris 2-Stroke Synthetic or equivalent API TC-W3 rated oil. Manual specifies exact types and grades.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Manual specifies mix ratio and P/N.
Chaincase Oil:
Polaris recommended chaincase lubricant. Manual specifies viscosity and P/N.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, suspension bushings, track lugs, and drive sprockets are common wear items on snowmobiles of this era.
Potential Engine Concerns:
Proper maintenance of the fuel injection system and cooling system is crucial to prevent issues like carbon buildup or overheating.
Polarid Legacy:
Polaris Industries, established in 1954, is a leading manufacturer of powersports vehicles known for innovation and performance.
Dragon Series:
The Dragon series was Polaris's premium performance line, often featuring advanced technology and enhanced styling.
Switchback Platform:
The Switchback designation indicates a crossover model, combining features of a trail sled with mountain sled capabilities, offering versatility.
Production Era:
The 2008 model falls within the early to mid-life cycle of the Polaris IQ-based chassis and Liberty engine advancements.