Target Audience:
Polaris Cobra owners (DIY enthusiasts), independent repair shops, vintage snowmobile restorers
Advantage:
Provides manufacturer-specific, detailed repair procedures that are often unavailable in generic repair guides, ensuring accuracy and correctness for vintage Polaris snowmobiles.
Feature 1:
Vehicle-specific information, not generic.
Feature 2:
Includes step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and illustrations.
Feature 3:
Wiring schematics for electrical system troubleshooting.
Feature 4:
Specifications and procedures equivalent to authorized dealer service departments.
Feature 5:
Cost savings through DIY maintenance and repairs.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Diagnostics
Included Sections:
Engine, Drivetrain, Chassis, Electrical System, Bodywork, Suspension, Tracks, Steering, Fuel System, Cooling System, Braking System, Carburetion, Ignition System, General Maintenance, Specifications, Diagrams, Wiring Schematics
Estimated Page Count:
Typically 200-400 pages for a comprehensive service manual of this era
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Engine:
Detailed overhaul procedures, component identification, timing, compression testing, carburetor tuning, ignition system diagnostics, cooling system service
Drivetrain:
Clutch adjustment and replacement (primary and secondary), chaincase lubrication and inspection, track drive system maintenance, tunnel and bogey wheel service
Electrical System:
Wiring schematics, ignition system components (CDI, coil, spark plugs), lighting, starter system (if applicable), battery maintenance
Chassis And Body:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat maintenance, hood removal, handlebars and controls service
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension component inspection and lubrication, shock absorber service, steering linkage adjustment and repair, ski alignment
Maintenance:
Regular maintenance checks, lubrication points, fluid changes (oil, coolant), filter replacements, track tension adjustment
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding of major systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic owner maintenance to advanced mechanical repairs and diagnostics as performed by dealership technicians
Engine Type:
2-stroke, liquid or fan-cooled (specifics depend on sub-model variant of Cobra)
Displacement:
Likely 244cc, 340cc, or 440cc based on typical Polaris engine offerings for this era. Manual will specify exact variants.
Bore X Stroke:
Variable based on displacement; manual will provide exact figures.
Horsepower:
Varies by engine size; typically in the range of 25-50 HP.
Torque:
Specific values will be detailed in the manual.
Carburetor:
Typically Tillotson or Mikuni constant-vacuum carburetors. Manual will specify model and jetting.
Fuel Type:
Leaded gasoline with appropriate oil pre-mix ratio (e.g., 40:1 or 50:1, manual will specify exact mix).
Ignition Type:
Solid-state CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition).
Type:
Automatic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Polaris' Torque-Sensing Clutch system.
Optional Features:
N/A for this model year, CVT was standard.
Clutch Service:
Detailed procedures for primary and secondary clutch disassembly, cleaning, inspection, spring replacement, and weight adjustment.
Chaincase Oil:
Specifications for chaincase lubricant and capacity will be in the manual.
Length:
Varies by specific Cobra model, but typical for the era would be around 90-110 inches.
Width:
Varies by specific Cobra model, but typical for the era would be around 30-40 inches.
Dry Weight:
Typically in the range of 350-450 lbs, depending on engine size and features.
Crash Test Results:
N/A for snowmobiles from this era; safety focused on rider protection and machine stability.
Engine Kill Switch:
Standard tethered kill switch for rider safety.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake or mechanical drum brake; manual will specify component details and service.
Track System:
Aggressive lug design for traction; manual covers track inspection for wear and damage.
Oil Change:
Not applicable for 2-stroke pre-mix engines; refers to chaincase oil inspection/change, typically annually or after a set number of operating hours (manual will specify).
Spark Plugs:
Recommended replacement intervals for spark plugs will be provided in the manual based on usage.
Track Tension:
Regular inspection and adjustment as needed for optimal performance and longevity.
Chaincase Oil:
Manual will specify SAE viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 30 or SAE 5W-30) and brand/type recommendations.
Coolant:
For liquid-cooled models, manual will specify type (e.g., ethylene glycol) and mixture ratio with water.
2 Stroke Oil:
Manual will specify the required type of 2-stroke oil for pre-mixing with gasoline (e.g., API-TC certified).
Carburetion:
Carburetor gumming and pilot jet blockage due to fuel sitting; clutch slippage if worn or improperly adjusted.
Engine:
Piston ring wear, exhaust port blockage, and crank seal leaks are common for 2-stroke engines of this age if not maintained.
Track Drive:
Wear on track lugs, idler wheels, and drive sprockets; chaincase seal leaks.
Manufacturer:
Polaris Industries Inc., a long-standing manufacturer of snowmobiles and powersports vehicles.
Cobra Lineage:
The Cobra was a popular mid-range to performance-oriented snowmobile for Polaris in the late 1970s, known for its styling and handling.
Era Significance:
Represents Polaris' offerings during a competitive period in snowmobile design and technology.