Snowmobile Polaris 550 IQ / 550 Shift (2012 year). Instruction - part 7

28

THE PERFECT FIT

Front Suspension Adjustments

Independent Front Suspension (IFS)

Break in the suspension for about 150 miles (240 km) before making 
any fine-tuning adjustments. 

Settings will vary from rider to rider, depending on rider weight, vehicle 
speed, riding style, and trail conditions.  We recommend starting with 
factory settings and then customizing each adjustment individually to 
suit rider preference.  The machine should be methodically tested, one 
change at a time, under the same conditions (trail and snow conditions, 
vehicle speed, riding position, etc.) after each adjustment until the best 
ride is achieved. 

IFS Components

1. Skis

2. Front shocks and springs

3. Rod ends

4. A-arms

IFS Adjustment Options
• Front shock spring preload
• Optional springs

1

2

3

4

29

THE PERFECT FIT

Front Suspension Adjustments

Shock Spring Preload

Increasing spring preload will increase 
ski-to-ground pressure. Decreasing spring 
preload will decrease ski-to-ground pres-
sure. When adjusting, be sure the springs 
on both the left and right sides of the 
machine are at the same adjustment.

To change front shock spring preload, 
grasp the spring and rotate it.

Increasing the spring preload too much 
may adversely affect the handling of the 
snowmobile and the performance of the 
suspension. Never exceed one inch of pre-
load beyond the factory settings, and 
ensure that both sides are adjusted the 
same. When decreasing preload, make 
sure at least two turns of preload are hold-
ing the spring between the retainer on the 
top of the shock and the threaded spring 
preload adjuster nut on the shock body. 
Failure to do so could cause the retainer to fall off when the suspension 
is fully extended.

Tip: Not all models have shocks with thread adjustable spring preload. See your 

dealer for more information. 

NOTICE: On some models equipped with a plastic adjuster nut, the nut will 

break if it is unscrewed from the threaded body. Do not force the nut if 
resistance suddenly increases while you’re turning it.

Low

Preload

High

Preload

30

THE PERFECT FIT

Rear Suspension Adjustments

Rider weight, riding style, trail conditions, and vehicle speed all affect 
suspension action.

Each rear suspension can be adjusted to suit rider preference and deliver 
excellent performance for a given set of conditions.  However, all sus-
pension designs and adjustments involve a compromise, or trade-off.  
For example, a suspension set up for snowcross racing would provide a 
very stiff ride on the trail.  A suspension set up for trail riding would 
bottom out harshly on a snowcross course.

Refer to the suspension setup label on your snowmobile, or see your 
POLARIS dealer for initial suspension setup information. Additional 
adjustments can be made after initial setup. Make adjustments to one 
area at a time so you can evaluate the change. For further assistance, see 
your dealer.

31

THE PERFECT FIT

Rear Suspension Adjustments

Suspension Performance Tips

• Rider weight usually determines the position at which the spring pre-

load should be set. However, this may vary with riding style. With a 
little experimentation, each rider can find a preferred setup. These 
adjustments are easy to make, involve very little time or effort, and 
greatly affect the ride.

• In deep snow, a new rail slide will offer improved performance over 

worn rail slide. It can also improve top speed.

• When riding on ice or hard-packed snow, adding a set of bogie wheels 

to the rail may enhance the machine's performance.  Bogie wheel kits 
are available from your dealer.

• POLARIS offers track kits for improved flotation in deep snow.  See 

your dealer for assistance.

Tip: Keep the suspension pivot points lubricated. This will reduce moisture and 

rust build-up and ensure proper function of the suspension components. 
Grease rear suspension pivots before adjusting the rear suspension. Refer 
to the Pre-Ride Suspension Inspection on page 45.

Track Tension

Track adjustment is critical for proper handling. Always maintain cor-
rect tension and alignment. Refer to the track tension maintenance sec-
tion beginning on page 86.