Segment:
Deep snow / Mountain Riding
Target User:
Snowmobile enthusiasts and mechanics specializing in Polaris off-road vehicles.
Key Competitors 2008:
Ski-Doo Summit, Arctic Cat M Series, Yamaha Apex MTX, and similar models from other manufacturers in the deep snow segment.
Rmk Design Philosophy:
RMK (Ridgeline Mountain Kool) series is designed for optimal performance in deep powder, featuring lightweight construction, aggressive track designs, and agile handling.
Shift Technology:
The 'Shift' model typically refers to Polaris's rider-activated variable exhaust (R.A.V.E.) system or a similar engine technology designed to optimize power delivery across the RPM range.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance procedures for the 2008 Polaris 600 RMK Shift 155 Snowmobile.
Secondary Coverage:
Diagnostic troubleshooting, electrical system diagrams, component removal and installation, specifications, and routine maintenance.
Estimated Page Count:
300-500 pages (typical for a comprehensive service manual)
Manual Type:
Service Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Engine And Powertrain:
Engine overhaul, top-end rebuild, piston replacement, cylinder head service, crankshaft and connecting rod inspection, timing, fuel system (carburetor or EFI depending on specific 600 variant), exhaust system, cooling system (liquid or air), lubrication system.
Drive System:
Clutching (primary and secondary), belt replacement, chaincase operation and maintenance, final drive, track system, suspension (front and rear), steering components.
Electrical System:
Ignition system, lighting, starter system, charging system, battery maintenance, wiring diagrams, sensor testing, control module diagnostics.
Body And Chassis:
Frame inspection and repair, body panel removal and installation, seat service, windshields, handlebars, controls, and accessories.
Braking System:
Brake caliper service, brake line replacement, master cylinder maintenance, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, coolant checks and flushes, clutch inspection, belt inspection, track tension adjustment, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common symptoms such as starting issues, poor performance, overheating, electrical faults, and drivability problems.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all major systems.
Special Tools And Techniques:
Identification and usage guidelines for specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance tasks.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and torque specifications.
Engine Model:
Polaris 600 Cleanfire (likely variant)
Engine Type:
Liquid-Cooled, 2-Stroke, 2-Cylinder
Displacement:
599cc (approximate)
Bore X Stroke:
72.4 mm x 73.2 mm (typical for this engine family)
Compression Ratio:
6.7:1 (typical, may vary slightly)
Horsepower:
Approx. 125-130 HP (Varies by exact model and tuning)
Torque:
Not typically specified in standard HP figures, but optimized for low-end grunt in deep snow.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Cleanfire
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil Mixing:
2-stroke oil injection system
Carburetor Details:
N/A for EFI models; if carbureted variant exists, would list Mikuni or Keihin models.
Transmission Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) - P-85 Primary Clutch and ADL Secondary Clutch
Optional Transmissions:
N/A (CVT is standard for this type of snowmobile)
Clutch Engagement:
Optimized for low-speed torque and efficient power transfer in deep snow conditions.
Gear Reduction:
Integrated within the chaincase, specific ratios detailed in manual.
Track Lug Height:
2.25 inches or 2.375 inches (common for RMK models of this era)
Skid Frame Type:
RMK Lightweight SC-10 III or similar evolution of Polaris's mountain suspension.
Dry Weight:
Approx. 430-450 lbs (Varies by configuration)
Fuel Capacity:
10.3 gallons (approximate)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A for snowmobiles; safety is based on design and operator adherence to best practices.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake, providing strong and consistent stopping power.
Throttle Safety:
Thumb throttle with adjustable tension and safety interlock.
Kill Switch:
Emergency engine kill switch (lanyard type).
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider control and comfort during aggressive mountain riding.
Lighting:
Headlights and taillights for visibility.
Instrument Panel:
Digital/analog gauge cluster displaying speed, RPM, fuel level, coolant temperature, and diagnostic indicators.
Engine Management:
Advanced electronic control unit (ECU) managing fuel injection, ignition timing, and R.A.V.E. (if equipped).
Diagnostic Ports:
On-board diagnostic capabilities accessed via proprietary connectors, utilized by this service manual.
Initial Break In:
Critical break-in period for the engine, typically detailed in the owner's manual, involving specific RPM limits and load conditions.
Oil Change:
Annually or every 1,000-2,000 miles (depending on usage), but for 2-stroke injected oil, monitor level and top off as needed. Crankcase oil for chaincase: typically every 100 hours or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect and clean/replace every 1,000-2,000 miles or annually.
Clutch Inspection:
Inspect primary and secondary clutches for belt wear, roller condition, and sheave condition at 500-1,000 mile intervals or annually.
Track Tension:
Check and adjust track tension periodically, especially after initial use or in varying snow conditions.
Engine Oil:
Polaris Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil (or equivalent meeting API TC, JASO FD specifications).
Chaincase Oil:
Polaris Syn3 (or equivalent 75W-90 synthetic gear oil meeting API GL-4 specifications).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Drive belt, clutch rollers, hyfax (wear bars), skis, suspension bushings, and track lugs can be subject to wear depending on riding style and terrain.
Engine Notes:
Proper break-in and consistent use of correct 2-stroke oil are crucial for engine longevity. Some EFI systems may require occasional sensor cleaning or calibration.
Clutch Notes:
Overheating or excessive wear on clutch components can lead to poor performance and belt failure. Regular inspection is key.
Polaris Legacy:
Polaris Industries Inc. is a long-standing American manufacturer with a significant history in snowmobiles, ATVs, and other powersports vehicles, known for innovation in the industry.
Rmk Lineage:
The RMK line has been a cornerstone of Polaris's mountain snowmobile offerings for decades, continuously evolving with chassis and engine technology to meet the demands of deep snow riders.
2008 Model Year Context:
The 2008 models were part of Polaris's transition towards more advanced chassis designs and EFI technology, offering significant improvements in performance and handling over previous generations.
Manufacturing Location:
Polaris snowmobiles are primarily manufactured in the United States, with key facilities in Minnesota and Iowa.
