Snowmobile Polaris Widetrak LX (2015 year). Instruction - part 9

38

THE PERFECT FIT

Accessories

POLARIS offers a wide range of accessories for your snowmobile. 
From map light to electric start, POLARIS has the accessories that will 
help make each ride more enjoyable. See your dealer for a list of 
accessories.

Use only POLARIS parts and accessories on your POLARIS 
snowmobile. Use of unapproved parts and accessories may result in:
• Non-compliance with government/industry requirements
• Voiding of warranty
• Injury to self or others

This applies to, but is not limited to the following areas: brakes, 
clutches, fuel systems, and exhaust systems.

Exhaust systems are critical safety areas that must use approved 
POLARIS parts. Please see your POLARIS dealer for service.

39

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Pre-Ride Checklist

Inspect all items on the checklist for proper operation or condition 
before each use of the snowmobile. Procedures are outlined on the 
referenced pages. 

Item

See Page

Drive Belt Condition

82, 85

Steering System

43

Recoil Rope

44

Parking Brake Lock/Brake Lever/Brake System

41, 42, 76

Auxiliary Shut-Off Switch (Engine Stop Switch)

55

Ignition Switch

45

Taillight/Brake Light/Headlight

45

Suspension Mounting Bolts

95

Skags (Wear Bars)

94

Ski Saddle and Spindle Bolts

95

Hood Straps/Latches

44

Throttle Lever/Safety Switch

40, 55, 56

Rear Wheel Idler Bolts

90, 95

Tether Switch/Strap (if equipped)

45

Track Alignment/Condition

43, 91

Rail Slide Condition

95

Gearcase Oil Level

68

Injection Oil Level

52

40

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Before starting the engine, always refer to all safety warnings pertaining 
to snowmobile operation. Never start the engine without checking all 
vehicle components to be sure of proper operation.

WARNING! Operating the vehicle with worn, damaged, or malfunctioning 
components could result in serious injury or death. Never start the engine 
without checking all vehicle components to be sure of proper operation.

Read and Understand Your Owner’s Manual

Read the Owner’s Manual completely and refer to it often. The manual 
is your guide to safe and enjoyable snowmobiling experience.

Throttle Lever

The throttle and brake are the primary controls of your snowmobile. 
Always make sure both are functioning properly.

Squeeze the throttle lever to make sure it compresses evenly and 
smoothly. When released, the lever should immediately return to the 
idle position without binding or hesitation. If the throttle does not 
function smoothly, or if you discover excessive lever freeplay, DO NOT 
start the engine. Have the throttle serviced immediately. See page 56.

Throttle Safety Switch

Test the throttle safety switch system before the snowmobile is operated. 
See page 55.

41

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Hydraulic 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 inch (1.3 cm). A smaller 
distance indicates low brake fluid 
level or air in the hydraulic 
system. See page 77 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.

Check for the presence of air in the fluid system. See page 77 or see 
your dealer for service.

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 inch (1.3 cm)