Positioning:
The Polaris 600 RMK 155 is a dedicated mountain snowmobile designed for deep snow riding, backcountry exploration, and aggressive hill climbing. It emphasizes agility, flotation, and reliable power delivery in challenging off-trail conditions.
Competitors 2012:
Key competitors in the 2012 model year included Ski-Doo Summit, Arctic Cat M8, and Yamaha Nytro MTX. The RMK line was known for its rider-forward ergonomics and strong chassis design.
Chassis Platform:
RMK Pro chassis, featuring a lightweight and rigid construction optimized for mountain riding dynamics.
Track Length:
155-inch track length, providing excellent flotation in deep snow and improved climbing traction.
Suspension Design:
Advanced Pro-Ride IFS and RMK Pro T-Motion rear suspension for superior control, agility, and a more compliant ride in varied terrain.
Engine Type:
Liberty 600 Cleanfire 2-stroke engine, known for its responsiveness and power characteristics.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, overhaul, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system components.
Engine Fuel Injection:
Fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, ECU (Electronic Control Unit) diagnostics and service.
Drivetrain:
Primary clutch, secondary clutch (Team Tied driven clutch), chaincase, drive sprocket, track, driveshaft, idler wheels, suspension linkage.
Electrical System:
Ignition system, lighting, battery, starter, charging system, sensors, wiring diagrams, ECU troubleshooting.
Suspension:
Front Pro-Ride IFS (Independent Front Suspension), rear RMK Pro T-Motion (Torsion-Mount) suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment.
Steering:
Handlebars, steering post, tie rods, spindles, skis, ski saddle, ski loop.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake, caliper, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Bodywork:
Hood, side panels, seat, windshield, snow flaps, running boards, tunnel, graphics.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Pre-ride inspections, break-in procedures, oil changes, filter replacements, clutch maintenance, suspension lubrication, track tension adjustment.
Engine Repair:
Top-end rebuilds (cylinder head, piston, rings), bottom-end overhauls (crankshaft, connecting rods, bearings), valve adjustment (if applicable), timing procedures.
Clutch Service:
Clutch inspection, belt replacement, calibration, spring and weight changes, roller inspection.
Suspension Repair:
Shock absorber rebuilds, spring replacement, bushing replacement, track component inspection and replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing, use of diagnostic tools, reading fault codes.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic charts for common performance issues, starting problems, and system failures.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance and basic adjustments to complete engine and drivetrain overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications for all major systems.
Engine Family:
Polaris Liberty
Engine Type:
2-Stroke, Parallel-Twin
Displacement:
599 cc (36.6 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
73.0 mm x 72.0 mm (2.87 in x 2.83 in)
Cooling System:
Liquid-Cooled
Horsepower Estimated:
125 hp (approximately, may vary slightly based on specific tuning and altitude)
Power Delivery:
Cleanfire fuel injection for precise fuel metering and throttle response.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane minimum recommended, premium often preferred for optimal performance)
Fuel Injection:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Cleanfire System
Oil Delivery:
Liberty 2-Stage variable oil injection system.
Display Type:
Basic LCD gauge cluster providing essential information: speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, coolant temperature, odometer, trip meters, and diagnostic indicators.
Engine Management:
Advanced ECU with Cleanfire fuel injection and oil injection systems, ensuring optimal engine performance and emissions control.
Diagnostics:
The manual details how to access diagnostic codes via the instrument cluster or through specific Polaris diagnostic tools, enabling effective troubleshooting.
Initial Break In:
Critical break-in period of approximately 500 miles (800 km) or 10-15 hours, with specific RPM and load limitations outlined in the manual. Initial oil change and spark plug inspection recommended post-break-in.
Oil Change:
Recommended every 100 hours or annually, whichever comes first. Check oil level regularly.
Clutch Belt:
Inspect belt for wear and damage every 50 hours. Replace belt when worn to specifications or showing signs of damage.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect and clean/replace as needed based on condition, typically every 100-200 hours depending on riding style and fuel quality.
Suspension Greasing:
Lubricate suspension pivot points, idler wheel bearings, and steering components as per the schedule, typically every 50-100 hours.
Engine Oil:
Polaris Synthetic 2-Stroke Snowmobile Oil (or equivalent API-TC, JASO FD certified oil recommended by Polaris). Never use pre-mix or automotive 2-stroke oil.
Chaincase Oil:
Polaris Synthetic Chaincase Lubricant (SAE 75W-90 is a common specification). Refer to manual for specific part number and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Common Issues:
Given the year and intended use, potential issues addressed by the manual could include: excessive track wear, clutch belt slippage/failure, suspension component wear (bushings, shocks), potential for overheating under extreme load or with blocked intakes, and occasional electronic sensor failures. The manual provides diagnostic steps for these.
Maintenance Importance:
Proper and timely maintenance, especially break-in procedures and clutch care, is crucial for the longevity and performance of this model in demanding mountain conditions.
Heritage:
Polaris Industries has a long-standing reputation for innovation and performance in the snowmobile industry, dating back to the 1950s. The RMK (Ranger Mountain Kit) designation has been synonymous with Polaris's commitment to the backcountry and mountain riding segment for decades.
Evolution Rmk:
The RMK platform has continuously evolved, with key advancements including rider-forward ergonomics, the development of the Pro-Ride IFS, and the integrated T-Motion rear suspension system, all aimed at improving deep snow handling and rider control. The 600cc engine option provides a balance of power and efficiency for mountain riders.
Production Origin:
Polaris snowmobiles are primarily manufactured in the United States, with significant production facilities in Roseau, Minnesota.
