Market Position:
The 2009 Polaris 600 IQ Shift 136 was positioned as a versatile performance and trail snowmobile, known for its rider-friendly IQ chassis and the convenience of the 'Shift' on-the-fly transmission technology.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against similar displacement models from Ski-Doo (e.g., MXZ 600), Arctic Cat (e.g., Crossfire/M 600), and Yamaha (e.g., Nytro RTX SE), offering a balance of power, handling, and comfort.
Key Features:
Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC) with the 'Shift' feature allowing on-the-fly gear ratio adjustment, Pro-Ride front suspension, C3 Belt Drive, Polaris Liberty 600 engine, rider-forward ergonomic design.
Coverage Areas:
Comprehensive maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting for the 2009 Polaris 600 IQ Shift 136 snowmobile.
Page Count:
Unknown (typical for manufacturer service manuals, often hundreds of pages)
Manual Type:
Service/Repair Manual
Format:
Print (likely, as per description of original publication)
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Drive System (Clutching, Belt Drive, Chaincase), Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering, Braking System, Electrical System, Chassis, Bodywork, Track, Skis, Idling Systems.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, disassembly, assembly, component inspection, troubleshooting diagnostics, repair procedures, adjustments, torque specifications, electrical schematics, component testing.
Technical Depth:
In-depth technical information suitable for dealership technicians and certified repair personnel, covering detailed diagnostics and complete repair procedures.
Specific Components Covered:
Engine internal components (pistons, rings, crankshaft, bearings), cooling system radiators and hoses, fuel injectors, throttle bodies, exhaust system, power valves, primary and secondary clutches, drive chain and sprockets, suspension arms and shocks, steering column and tie rods, brake caliper and master cylinder, electrical wiring harnesses, lighting, battery, ECU.
Diagnostic Tools Procedures:
Procedures for using specialized tools like compression testers, multimeter for electrical diagnostics, clutch alignment tools, and torque wrenches will be detailed.
Bodywork Procedures:
Includes procedures for removing and installing body panels, seats, windshields, and bumpers.
Electrical System Coverage:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing procedures for sensors, switches, relays, lighting circuits, and ignition system diagnostics.
Technical Specifications Included:
Comprehensive list of torque specifications for all fasteners, engine and chassis component clearances, electrical resistance values, and fluid capacities.
Print Quality:
High-quality, professional printing with clear diagrams and legible text (typical of OEM manuals).
Binding Type:
Likely bound for durability in a workshop environment (e.g., coil-bound, stapled, or perfect bound).
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock, designed to withstand workshop use and potential exposure to oils and grease.
Primary Engine:
Polaris Liberty 600 Cleanfire 2-stroke twin
Horsepower:
Approximately 120-130 hp (factory estimate for this engine variant)
Torque:
Specific torque figures not readily available for this application, but designed for strong mid-range acceleration.
Fuel System:
Cleanfire Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Ignition System:
CDI with advanced timing controls
Standard Transmission:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Polaris P-85 Primary and P-90 Secondary Clutches
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Shift System is an integrated feature of the CVT)
Drive Type:
Chaincase with constant mesh gears, rear chain drive
Shift Technology:
Polaris 'Shift' system for on-the-fly ratio adjustment, managed by the iTC (Intelligent Throttle Control).
Chaincase Fluid Type:
Polaris Lubri-Gold Synthetic Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent specification)
Chaincase Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8-10 oz (refer to manual for exact capacity and level check procedure)
Safety Ratings:
N/A for snowmobiles (Safety is addressed through design features and operator responsibility).
Active Safety Features:
Hydraulic disc brake, rider-forward chassis for better control, adjustable handlebars, tether cord kill switch.
Passive Safety Features:
Durable chassis construction, comfortable seating position, hand warmers, thumb warmer.
Operator Guidelines:
Manual will include extensive safety precautions, riding tips, and emergency procedures.
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation panel: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, high/low temp warning lights. No advanced infotainment features typical of modern vehicles.
Driver Assistance:
The 'Shift' system acts as a form of transmission management assistance, optimizing engine performance based on load and speed.
Connectivity Features:
None (N/A for this model year and type of vehicle).
Pre Ride Inspection:
Daily/Before Each Ride: Check fluid levels (coolant, chaincase), track tension, ski alignment, brake operation, tether cord, drive belt condition, loose fasteners.
Initial Service:
Typically at 500 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. Includes checking/adjusting chaincase oil, inspecting clutches, drive belt, suspension components, and torque values.
Routine Maintenance:
Intervals for spark plug replacement, drive belt replacement (e.g., every 2000 miles or as needed), chaincase oil change (e.g., annually or every 1000 miles), clutch service, coolant flush, suspension lubrication.
Engine Oil Type:
Polaris 2-Stroke Synthetic Oil (or equivalent API-TC, JASO FD rated oil)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Polaris Coolant or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Common Issues:
Typical issues for this era might include clutch wear (particularly primary spring or roller wear), drive belt deterioration, potential for stator or ignition module failure, and general wear and tear on suspension components and track.
Troubleshooting Guidance:
Manual provides systematic diagnostic flowcharts and component tests for common and uncommon problems, covering starting issues, power loss, and erratic operation.
Brand Heritage:
Polaris Industries, founded in 1954, is a long-standing American manufacturer of powersports vehicles, including snowmobiles, ATVs, and UTVs, known for innovation and performance.
Model Evolution:
The IQ chassis, introduced for the 2005 model year, represented a significant redesign for Polaris, focusing on rider ergonomics, weight centralization, and improved handling. The 'Shift' system was an enhancement to this platform.
Production Period:
The IQ chassis was produced for several years, with the 600 IQ Shift model being a key offering within this generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Polaris snowmobiles are primarily manufactured in the United States.
