Category:
Performance Trail Snowmobile
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners of 1985-1989 Ski-Doo Formula snowmobiles seeking self-maintenance and repair capabilities.
Era Competitors:
Arctic Cat Pantera, Yamaha Vmax, Polaris Indy.
Manual Value:
Provides essential technical data for maintaining and repairing a classic snowmobile, crucial for owners without dealership access.
Primary Coverage:
1985-1989 Ski-Doo Formula Series Snowmobiles
Specific Models Covered:
Not explicitly listed in product description, but implies all Formula models within the specified years.
Estimated Page Count:
Estimated 200-400 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era).
Type:
Repair Manual / Service Manual
Engine:
Detailed coverage of engine assembly, disassembly, tuning, and troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment, fuel pump operation, fuel line maintenance.
Ignition System:
CDI unit, spark plugs, timing, troubleshooting.
Drive System:
Clutch adjustment (primary and secondary), belt inspection and replacement, chain case service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component inspection, lubrication, and adjustment.
Steering:
Handlebar assembly, steering post, linkage inspection and maintenance.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system service, pad replacement, fluid flush.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starter motor, battery maintenance.
Bodywork:
Hood, seat, skis, track assembly and repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication points, general upkeep.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, symptom-based fault finding.
Repair:
Complete tear down and rebuild procedures for all major components.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, clearances, and settings.
Part Identification:
Part diagrams for component identification and assembly reference.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and chassis repairs.
Engine Type:
Rotary Valve 2-Stroke Twin Cylinder (Common across Formula models of this era, specific displacement varies).
Displacement Range:
Typically 370cc to 500cc for Formula models in this period (e.g., Formula MX, Formula Plus).
Horsepower Range:
Estimated 45-70 HP depending on model and engine variant.
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled (most Formula models).
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni VM carburetors (common configuration).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (recommendation for 87-octane or higher, consult specific model specs).
Bore X Stroke:
Varies by specific engine, e.g., 69mm x 64mm for a 467cc engine.
Reed Valves:
Yes, standard for high-performance 2-stroke engines.
Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) - Bombardier's TRA 'Torque Response Application' clutch system.
Gearbox:
N/A (CVT is the primary transmission).
Clutch System:
Primary (Drive) Clutch and Secondary (Driven) Clutch with spring and weight adjustments for performance tuning.
Chain Case Oil:
API GL-4, SAE 80W-90 gear oil is commonly specified. Consult manual for exact type and quantity.
Length:
Varies by model, typically 95-105 inches.
Width:
Varies by model, typically 35-42 inches.
Dry Weight:
Varies by model, typically 450-550 lbs.
Fuel Capacity:
Typically 5-7 gallons.
Crash Test Results:
N/A (Snowmobiles are not typically crash-tested by agencies like NHTSA).
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake (rear).
Throttle Limiter:
Standard safety feature for preventing unintended acceleration.
Kill Switch:
Engine shut-off tether cord (often mounted on handlebars).
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light.
Dashboard Gauges:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, engine temperature gauge, fuel level indicator.
Traction Control:
N/A (Not a feature of this era).
Electronic Fuel Injection:
N/A (Carbureted engines).
Pre Ride Inspection:
Check fuel level, oil level (if applicable), track tension, general condition.
Clutch Inspection:
Every 50-100 hours or annually. Check for wear on buttons, rollers, and belt.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommend replacement annually or every 100-200 hours, depending on plug type and usage.
Track Tension Adjustment:
Check and adjust every 50-100 hours or as needed.
Carburetor Cleaning:
As needed, or annually before storage. Jetting checks and adjustments.
2-Stroke Oil:
Specific blend of synthetic or semi-synthetic 2-stroke oil, often specified by Ski-Doo. Consult manual for exact type and ratio (premix or oil injection).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Specify capacity.
Clutch Wear:
Wear on clutch buttons and rollers, leading to poor performance or slippage. Belt failure due to heat or wear.
Carburetor Issues:
Gumming and blockage due to old fuel or ethanol, leading to hard starting and poor running.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension pivot points and bushings can lead to looseness and poor handling.
Track Lube:
Need for proper track lubrication to prevent damage and excessive wear.
Manufacturer:
Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP).
Founding Era:
Bombardier founded in 1942, snowmobile division established later.
Formula Series Context:
The Formula series represented Ski-Doo's entry into the performance and racing-oriented market segment in the 1980s, evolving from earlier touring and utility models.
Key Innovations Era:
Improvements in suspension (IFS - Independent Front Suspension on some models), engine power, and aerodynamic bodywork.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Canada and USA.
