Intended Use:
All-terrain utility and recreation, particularly in snow conditions.
Key Competitors Era:
Arctic Cat, Polaris, Yamaha snowmobiles of the mid-1980s.
Alpine Design Philosophy:
Robust construction, reliable two-stroke engine, comfortable seating, and capable chassis for varied snow conditions and moderate utility tasks.
Benefit To Owner:
Enables owners to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and execute repairs, saving on service costs and extending the life of the snowmobile.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Overhauling
Estimated Pages:
300-400 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system (if applicable), drivetrain, gearbox.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system, track and slide assembly, skis.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, battery, starter, ignition switch, ignition coil, stator, basic electrical components.
Bodywork:
Body panels, seating, controls, decals, fasteners.
Routine Maintenance:
Lubrication, tune-ups, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment, track tensioning, filter replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common starting, running, and performance issues. Identification of faulty components.
Component Repair:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for major components (engine, transmission, suspension).
Overhauling:
Instructions for complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and suspension rebuilds.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic adjustments to complete engine rebuilds and electrical system troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Two-stroke, liquid-cooled (likely)
Engine Configuration:
Parallel Twin
Displacement:
503cc (approximate, based on model designation '503')
Horsepower:
Estimated 30-40 HP (typical for this engine size and era).
Torque:
Not specified, but characteristic of a mid-range two-stroke.
Carburetion:
Twin Mikuni VM Series carburetors (common for Rotax engines of this period, assuming Rotax power plant).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil (typically 40:1 or 50:1 ratio, to be confirmed in manual).
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Crash Testing:
Not applicable (snowmobiles are not typically crash-tested in the same manner as cars).
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake (typical).
Throttle Control:
Thumb throttle with safety lever lockout.
Kill Switch:
Engine kill switch, often tethered to the rider.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light.
Dashboard:
Basic analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, engine temperature (if applicable), and fuel level. Indicator lights for oil, lights, etc.
Features:
None beyond standard mechanical controls.
Oil Change:
Pre-mix required for 2-stroke operation. Oil injection system maintenance if equipped.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 100-150 hours or annually. Manual will specify type (e.g., NGK BR9ES).
Track Tension Adjustment:
As needed, but often checked at the beginning of each season. Manual will provide specific measurement and adjustment procedure.
Coolant:
If liquid-cooled, a specific antifreeze/coolant mixture (e.g., 50/50 ethylene glycol-based) will be specified. Capacity typically 1-2 liters.
Gearcase Oil:
Specific gear oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil) will be required. Capacity typically 0.5-1 liter.
2 Stroke Oil:
Premium 2-stroke snowmobile oil (TCW3 or equivalent, depending on engine design) is required for pre-mixing or oil injection. Ratio specified in manual (e.g., 40:1).
Common Wear Items:
Drive belts (on CVT), suspension bushings, ski carbides, track lugs, ignition components (stator, coil), carburetors can require cleaning/rebuilding due to fuel quality over time.
Engine Reliability:
Two-stroke engines of this era require diligent maintenance, particularly regarding lubrication and avoiding overheating, to ensure longevity. Carburetor jets can become clogged with ethanol-laden fuels if stored improperly.
Manufacturer:
Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), under the Ski-Doo brand.
Alpine Legacy:
The Ski-Doo Alpine line was known for its utility and two-up riding capability. The 1985 model represents an evolution of this robust platform, likely incorporating improvements in engine performance, suspension, and reliability over earlier iterations.
Manufacturing Era:
Mid-1980s
