Category:
Performance Touring Snowmobile
Target Audience:
Snowmobilers seeking comfortable long-distance riding with the capability for varied snow conditions and trail exploration.
Competitors:
Competed against similar touring models from Ski-Doo (e.g., Grand Touring), Yamaha (e.g., VK series), and Arctic Cat during its production run.
Features:
Designed for passenger comfort with a longer track, comfortable seating, and often storage solutions. Known for Polaris's reliable Liberty engine technology of the era.
Touring Aspects:
Emphasis on ride quality, adjustable suspension, and potentially heated grips/throttles for rider and passenger comfort on extended journeys.
Coverage:
Comprehensive service, maintenance, and troubleshooting for all aspects of the Polaris Indy XLT Touring models from 1996-1998.
Page Count:
Specific page count not provided in product description, but typical comprehensive service manuals of this era range from 300-600+ pages.
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual (Workshop Manual)
Engine:
Engine specifications, disassembly, assembly, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system.
Drivetrain:
Drive clutch, driven clutch, chaincase, track drive system, suspension components (front and rear).
Electrical:
Ignition system, lighting, starter system, charging system, electrical diagrams, troubleshooting.
Chassis Body:
Frame, skis, handlebars, seat, body panels, storage compartments, snow flap.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication points, cleaning procedures, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, including engine rebuilds, clutch service, suspension repairs.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for engine performance issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures.
Depth:
In-depth technical information suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts, covering disassembly, reassembly, specifications, and tolerances.
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable, allowing users to create physical copies of sections or the entire manual.
Quality:
Professional quality, typically including clear diagrams, illustrations, and text.
Binding Type:
Not applicable for PDF download; for printed versions, typically spiral-bound for lay-flat use.
Paper Type:
Not applicable for PDF download; for printed versions, usually durable paper suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Type:
Two-stroke, parallel twin cylinder
Engine Displacement:
Typically 698cc or 700cc (exact variant depends on specific model year sub-trim)
Engine Cooling:
Liquid-cooled
Induction:
Carbureted (Mikuni or similar twin carburetors common)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 95-115 HP (estimated, exact figures vary by year and tuning)
Torque Curve:
Designed for strong mid-range power delivery suitable for touring and carrying a passenger.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (octane rating specified by Polaris, typically 87 or 89)
Carburetor Size:
Dual 38mm or 40mm carburetors common
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Polaris P-85 drive clutch and MM-series driven clutch.
Optional Transmission:
Not applicable, CVT was standard.
Gear Ratios:
Variable, determined by clutch engagement and belt position. Specific ratio ranges would be detailed in the manual.
Clutch Service:
Manual covers clutch alignment, belt replacement, spring and roller inspection/replacement.
Chaincase Oil:
Specific Polaris chaincase lubricant or equivalent (e.g., synthetic gear oil, consult manual for exact spec and capacity).
Overall Length:
Typically around 118-124 inches (300-315 cm), varies slightly by year.
Overall Width:
Around 48 inches (122 cm).
Track Length:
Often 121 inches or 126 inches (307 cm or 320 cm) for touring models.
Ski Stance:
Standard Polaris stance, typically 42-43 inches (107-109 cm).
Dry Weight:
Approximately 470-500 lbs (213-227 kg), varies by configuration.
Payload Capacity:
Designed for two-up riding, capacity specified in manual.
Storage:
Typically includes a rear storage bag or rack, and sometimes under-seat storage.
Crash Safety:
Snowmobiles are not typically rated by government agencies like automobiles. Safety relies on design and operator skill.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake, typically located on the driveshaft or track spindle.
Throttle Control:
Thumb throttle with adjustable tension. Potential for heated throttle block.
Hand Grips:
Handlebar with comfortable grips. Potential for heated handgrips.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, taillight, brake light, and running lights.
Wind Protection:
Adjustable windshield for rider comfort and wind deflection.
Display Features:
Basic instrumentation typically includes speedometer, tachometer, odometer, and indicator lights for oil, high beam, and engine condition.
Assistance Systems:
No electronic driver assistance systems like ABS or traction control were standard on models of this era.
Connectivity Options:
No electronic connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, GPS) were integrated into these models.
Initial Service:
Break-in period typically requires specific oil changes and component checks within the first few hundred miles/hours.
Annual Maintenance:
Includes checking/replacing drive belt, spark plugs, inspecting track and suspension, greasing bearings, checking brake fluid, and fuel system cleaning.
Engine Oil Change:
2-stroke engines utilize oil injection; the oil reservoir needs regular refilling. Specific oil filter changes not applicable for 2-stroke oil injection systems.
Clutch Maintenance:
Regular inspection of drive and driven clutches for wear, proper alignment, and belt condition. Clutch service intervals vary based on usage.
Engine Oil:
Polaris 2-Stroke Synthetic Injection Oil (or equivalent API-TC certified oil).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water). Consult manual for specific type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity).
Chaincase Lubricant:
Specific Polaris chaincase lubricant or a high-quality synthetic gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90) as per manual recommendation.
Drive Belt Wear:
Drive belts are wear items and require periodic inspection and replacement. Incorrect alignment or tension can accelerate wear.
Carburetor Icing:
In humid or cold conditions, carburetors can be prone to icing. Proper jetting and potentially a carb heat kit can mitigate this.
Suspension Bushings:
Over time, suspension bushings and bearings can wear, leading to loose handling and noise. Regular greasing and inspection are key.
Track Tension:
Improper track tension (too loose or too tight) can lead to premature wear of the track, hyfax, and drive sprockets.
Manufacturer:
Polaris Industries is a long-standing American manufacturer of powersports vehicles, known for its innovation in snowmobiles, ATVs, and motorcycles.
Lineage:
The Indy line has a storied history within Polaris, representing some of their most popular and enduring snowmobile models. The XLT was a significant model in the 700cc class during this period.
Touring Variant:
The 'Touring' designation signifies a model built for extended comfort and often two-up riding, differentiating it from sportier Indy models.
Production Era:
Mid-to-late 1990s, a period of significant technological advancement in snowmobile design.
Key Technologies Introduced:
This era saw refinements in engine power, suspension designs (like the XTRA-10 front and rear suspension), and rider ergonomics.
