Market Segment:
Entry-level to mid-range recreational snowmobile.
Competitors:
Competed with models from Yamaha (e.g., Bravo), Polaris (e.g., Indy series), and Arctic Cat during its era.
Target Audience:
Recreational trail riding, utility, and general snowmobiling.
Durability:
Known for its robust build and reliable Rotax engine for its class.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Clutch System, Drive System, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Bodywork, Chassis, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
300-400
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for the Rotax 277 engine.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment, cleaning, and rebuilding (e.g., Mikuni VM series); fuel pump and line service.
Ignition System:
CDI ignition system troubleshooting, coil testing, timing adjustments, and component replacement.
Clutch System:
Drive clutch (primary) and driven clutch (secondary) inspection, service, adjustment, and replacement.
Drive System:
Chaincase inspection, lubrication, and repair; track drive system maintenance.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component inspection, lubrication, and repair; shock absorber service.
Steering:
Steering post, tie rod, and ski linkage adjustment and repair.
Brakes:
Brake caliper, master cylinder, brake disc, and cable inspection and service.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starter system, and battery service.
Bodywork:
Fairing, seat, handlebar, and cowling removal and installation procedures.
Chassis:
Frame inspection and repair considerations.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, including lubrication, adjustments, and inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and component rebuilding procedures.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced engine rebuilding and electrical diagnostics.
Transmission Type:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drive Clutch:
Primary Clutch (e.g., Comet or Ski-Doo branded)
Driven Clutch:
Secondary Clutch (e.g., Comet or Ski-Doo branded)
Gear Reduction:
Chaincase with single reduction gear ratio (specific ratio documented in manual).
Features:
Automatic ratio adjustment for optimal engine performance.
Length Overall Inches Estimated:
Approx. 100-110
Width Overall Inches Estimated:
Approx. 35-40
Height Overall Inches Estimated:
Approx. 40-45
Dry Weight Lbs Estimated:
Approx. 350-400
Ski Stance Inches:
Approx. 30-32
Cargo Capacity:
Rear rack for utility or luggage.
Safety Certification:
CSA (Canadian Standards Association) certification typically for snowmobiles of this era.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake (typically rear skid frame mounted).
Kill Switch:
Handlebar-mounted engine kill switch with tether cord.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight/brake light.
Oil Change Interval:
As per owner's manual, typically after initial break-in and then annually or based on hours/mileage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended replacement based on hours or performance, typically every 1,500-2,000 miles or annually.
Clutch Inspection:
Regular inspection for wear and proper operation (e.g., every 50-100 operating hours).
Track Tension:
Check and adjust track tension at regular intervals, especially after initial use or under heavy load.
Chaincase Oil Type:
SAE 30 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil (specific viscosity varies based on temperature; consult manual for exact recommendation).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (consult manual for exact specification).
Fuel Octane Rating:
Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane) is typically sufficient, but check for specific recommendations regarding ethanol content.
Common Issues:
Clutch wear (rollers, buttons, springs), carburetor jetting issues in varying altitudes/temperatures, track lugs wear, and potential for CDI ignition component failure.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Ensuring fan shroud and fins are clean for adequate cooling.
Brand Origin:
Ski-Doo, a division of Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), is a Canadian brand with a long history in snowmobile manufacturing.
Safari Lineage:
The Safari line was introduced to offer a range of versatile snowmobiles, from utility to touring, often featuring updated styling and engine options over the years.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Canada (Valcourt, Quebec).
Production Period:
Mid to late 1980s.
