Snowmobile Polaris 550 IQ Shift / 550 IQ 136 / 550 IQ LXT (2013 year). Instruction - part 10

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Brakes

Always check the following items for proper operation before starting
the engine.

Brake Lever Travel

Squeeze the brake lever. It
should move no closer to the
handgrip than 1/2” (1.3 cm).
A smaller distance indicates
low brake fluid level or air in
the hydraulic system. Refer
to the brake bleeding infor-
mation on page 79 or see
your dealer for service.

Lever Feel

If the brake lever feels “spongy” when squeezed, check the brake fluid
level and condition. Add fluid as needed. See page 78.

WARNING! Continued use of “spongy” brakes may cause a complete loss of
brakes, which could result in serious injury or death. Always have the brakes
serviced at the first sign of sponginess.

1/2” (1.3 cm)

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Parking Brake Lever Lock

Use the parking brake lever lock only when you want the machine to
remain stationary; for example, when parked on an incline for a period
of five minutes or less.

1. Brake Lever

2. Parking Brake Lever

Lock

3. Master Cylinder Reser-

voir/ Cover

4. Fluid Level Indicator

Lock Engagement

To engage the lock, squeeze
the brake lever tightly and
push forward on the lock.
Hold the lock forward while
releasing the brake lever.

Tip: If the brake lever is squeezed tightly enough, the lock will move freely into

place. Do not force the lock or it may break.

The brake light will illuminate if the parking brake lever lock is set
while the engine is running. It will also illuminate when the service
brake is in use. If the parking brake light does not come on when the
parking brake or service brake is in use, have it serviced by your dealer.

Lock Release

To release the lock, squeeze the brake lever tightly. The lock will return
to the unlock position.

WARNING! If the parking brake lever lock is partially or entirely engaged while
riding, the brakes may overheat, resulting in brake damage. In extreme cases it
could cause a fire, which could result in serious injury or death. Always ensure
that the lever lock is completely disengaged before operating the snowmobile.

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Steering System

Before driving, manually turn the skis to the left and right to be sure ice
and snow are not interfering with full left and right steering. If difficulty
is encountered, remove ice and snow build-up that may be obstructing
the steering linkage.

Track

WARNING! Operating the snowmobile with a damaged track increases the
possibility of track failure, which could cause loss of control resulting in serious
injury or death. Always inspect the track for damage before using the vehicle.

Use of traction products such as studs increases the possibility of track
damage and/or failure. Driving at high speeds for extended periods of
time in marginal lubrication could severely damage track rods, break
track edges, and cause other track damage. Examples of marginal lubri-
cation would include frozen bodies of water without snow cover, icy
trails, and no-snow conditions.

Tip: Track damage or failure caused by operation on ice or poor lubrication con-

ditions voids the track warranty.

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Hood Latches

The hood of the snowmobile protects the operator from moving parts as
well as aiding in sound emission control and other functions. Under no
circumstances should your snowmobile be operated with the hood open
or removed. Always ensure that the hood straps are in good condition
and that the latches are securely in place before operating the snowmo-
bile.

Recoil Rope

Inspect the recoil rope and handle for excessive wear, and make sure the
knot securing the rope inside the handle is secure. If excessive wear is
found, see your POLARIS dealer for replacement.

Pre-Ride Suspension Inspection

Loose nuts and bolts can reduce your snowmobile's reliability and cause
needless repairs and down time. Before beginning any snowmobile trip,
a visual inspection will uncover potential problems. Check the follow-
ing items on a weekly basis or before any long trip.

Item

Check

Page

Suspension mounting bolts

Tightness

Rear idler wheel bolts

Tightness

Rear idler adjusting bolt locknuts

Tightness

Torque arm bolts

Tightness

Carrier and bogie wheel bolts

Tightness

Front torque arm limiter strap

Condition

Rail slide

Condition

Track

Tension

All rear suspension components

Lubrication

Ski runner/skag

Condition

Ski spindle bolts

Tightness

Tie rod end nuts

Tightness

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