Snowmobile Polaris 550 IQ / 550 Shift (2012 year). Instruction - part 10

 

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Snowmobile Polaris 550 IQ / 550 Shift (2012 year). Instruction - part 10

 

 

40

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 ref-
erenced pages.  Look for a checkmark (n) on the referenced pages to 
locate the pre-ride inspection items.

Item

See Page

Drive Belt Condition

83, 85

Steering System

44

Recoil Rope

45

Cooling System Seal

73

Parking Brake Lock/Brake Lever/Brake System

42, 43, 77

Auxiliary Shut-Off Switch (Engine Stop Switch)

46

Ignition Switch

46

Taillight/Brakelight/Headlight

46

Suspension Mounting Bolts

45

Skags (Wear Bars)

37, 93

Ski Spindle Bolts

45

Hood Straps/Latches

45

Throttle Lever/Safety Switch

56, 57

Rear Wheel Idler Bolts

89

Tether Switch/Strap (accessory)

46

Track Alignment/Condition

44, 90

Rail Slide Condition

94

Chaincase Oil Level

68

Injection Oil Level

53

41

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

WARNING! Worn, damaged, or malfunctioning components may cause serious 
injury or death. Before starting the engine, check all 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 func-
tion smoothly, or if you discover excessive lever freeplay, DO NOT start 
the engine.  Have the throttle serviced immediately.

Throttle Safety Switch

Test the throttle safety switch system before the machine is operated. 
See page 56.

42

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 1/2I (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

I

 (1.3 cm)

43

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.

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