Category:
Performance Touring Snowmobile
Target Audience:
Snowmobilers seeking comfort and capability for longer rides and two-up touring, as well as utility tasks.
Key Competitors Era:
Arctic Cat (e.g., Panther, ZR models), Ski-Doo (e.g., Mach Z, Formula models).
Polariss Advantage:
Polaris' reputation for reliable twin-cylinder engines and comfortable rider ergonomics, often combined with a robust Widetrack chassis for stability and versatility.
Chassis Design:
Widetrack chassis for enhanced stability in varied snow conditions and for carrying loads or a passenger.
Engine Options:
Offered with both 500cc and 600cc liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder engine options providing a balance of power and efficiency.
Touring Features:
Designed for comfort with features like a comfortable seat, passenger backrest, and potentially a larger windshield for wind protection.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine components including cylinders, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, bearings, and valve train (if applicable).
Engine Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning, cleaning, and rebuilding; fuel pump inspection and replacement; fuel line routing and maintenance.
Engine Ignition System:
CDI unit testing, coil inspection, spark plug specifications, timing adjustments, and troubleshooting.
Engine Cooling System:
Radiator maintenance, coolant specifications, thermostat testing, water pump inspection and replacement, and cooling fan operation.
Transmission Drive System:
Clutch operation (primary and secondary), belt inspection and replacement, chain case inspection and lubrication, and track drive system maintenance.
Suspension Front:
Front suspension component inspection (shocks, springs, control arms), alignment specifications, and servicing procedures.
Suspension Rear:
Rear suspension linkage, shock absorbers, and spring servicing; adjustment procedures for ride height and dampening.
Steering System:
Handlebar and steering column inspection, linkage lubrication, and component wear checks.
Braking System:
Hydraulic brake system maintenance, caliper inspection, pad replacement, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, and parking brake adjustment.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system diagnostics, battery maintenance, starter motor testing, and accessory wiring.
Bodywork Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, chassis inspection, and repair of minor damage.
Track System:
Track tension adjustment, idler wheel inspection, and drive sprocket maintenance.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, belt inspections, lubrication, and general tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common starting issues, running problems, electrical faults, and mechanical failures.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, component measurement, wear analysis, and reassembly with torque specifications.
Suspension Repair:
Instructions for shock absorber replacement, spring installation, and linkage bearing servicing.
Clutch Adjustment Replacement:
Procedures for adjusting secondary clutch engagement and replacing worn drive belts.
Carburetor Rebuilding:
Detailed guides for cleaning, inspecting, and replacing jets, needles, and diaphragms in the stock carburetors.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Using multimeters to test ignition coils, stator output, and voltage regulators; troubleshooting lighting circuits.
Depth:
Comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures suitable for both experienced technicians and mechanically inclined owners.
Detail Level:
Includes torque specifications, critical measurements, tolerances, and diagnostic charts.
Engine Type:
Liquid-Cooled, 2-Stroke, Twin-Cylinder
Displacement 500:
Approximately 488cc
Displacement 600:
Approximately 597cc
Horsepower 500:
Estimated 90-100 HP (varies by specific tuning)
Horsepower 600:
Estimated 105-115 HP (varies by specific tuning)
Cooling System:
Liquid Cooling
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni VM carburetors (e.g., 38mm or 40mm, model dependent)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane minimum, higher recommended)
Oil Mixture:
Autolube system (Premix is generally not recommended unless explicitly stated for emergency use).
Oil Change:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, consult manual for specific interval and type.
Belt Inspection:
Inspect belt for wear and damage at least annually. Replace based on condition or mileage (e.g., every 2,500-5,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 1,500-2,000 miles or annually for optimal performance.
Carburetor Cleaning:
Recommended annually or as needed, especially after storage.
Engine Oil:
2-stroke synthetic oil injection recommended. Consult manual for specific Polaris brand or equivalent recommended oil (e.g., Polaris Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (check manual for exact specification).
Chaincase Oil:
Specific gear oil for the chaincase. Consult manual for viscosity and capacity (e.g., Polaris Chaincase Lubricant).
Clutch Belt Slippage:
Premature belt wear or slippage can occur due to improper belt tension, worn clutches, or incorrect belt alignment.
Carburetor Fouling:
Carburetors can become fouled with varnish from stale fuel or debris, leading to poor idling and performance.
Track Tension:
Improper track tension (too loose or too tight) can lead to excessive wear on the track, suspension components, and drive system.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and bearings in the suspension can wear over time, leading to loose handling and premature component failure.
Polariss Legacy:
Polaris Industries, founded in 1954, is a leading manufacturer of powersports vehicles, including snowmobiles, ATVs, and motorcycles. Known for innovation and off-road performance.
Indy Series Impact:
The Indy line has been a cornerstone of Polaris' snowmobile offerings, evolving over decades to include various configurations like touring, sport, and utility models.
Twotrack Widetrack Development:
Polaris has consistently offered Widetrack variants, emphasizing stability and load-carrying capacity, making them popular for touring and utility use.
Production Era:
Late 1990s to early 2000s, a period of significant technological advancement in snowmobile design.
