Snowmobile Polaris RMK Shift / RMK / Dragon RMK (2008 year). Instruction - part 14

57

OPERATION

Engine Break-In

No single action on your part is as important to long, trouble-free 
machine life as proper break-in of a new or rebuilt engine. Premix the 
first tank of gasoline with one pint of Polaris injection oil for each five 
gallons of fuel. This, in addition to the lubrication supplied by the injec-
tion system, will assure proper engine break-in.

CAUTION

Excessive heat build-up during the first three hours of operation will damage 

close-fitted engine parts. Do not operate at full throttle or high speeds for 

extended periods during the first three hours of use. Vary the throttle open-

ings and machine speeds to reduce friction on all close-fitting machined 

parts, allowing them to break in slowly without damage.
Use of any lubricants other than those recommended by Polaris may cause 

serious engine damage. We recommend the use of Polaris lubricants for your 

vehicle.
Drive with extra caution during the break-in period. Perform regular checks 

on fluid levels, lines, and all other important areas of the machine.

58

OPERATION

Engine Break-In

Oil Injection System

Always fill the oil reservoir when refueling.

Oil Recommendations

This snowmobile is equipped with a variable exhaust system (VES). 
Engine lubrication comes from oil added to the fuel and oil injection 
systems. Polaris recommends the use of VES II 2 Cycle Oil for this 
engine. See page 112 for the part numbers of Polaris products.

Never mix brands of oil. Serious chemical reactions can cause injection 
system blockage, resulting in serious engine damage. Oils may also be 
incompatible and the result could be sludge formation, filter blockage, 
and reduced cold weather flow rates. All Polaris oils are compatible 
with each other.

Slide Rail and Track Cooling

CAUTION

Serious engine damage can occur without the proper lubrication. Check the 

oil tank level often during the first tank of fuel. If the oil level doesn't go down, 

contact your dealer immediately.

CAUTION

Inadequate cooling and lubrication will lead to overheating of the slide rail 

and track, resulting in premature wear and failure.  Reduce speeds and fre-

quently drive into fresh snow to allow adequate cooling and polishing of the 

slide rail and track surfaces. Avoid operating on ice, hard-packed surfaces or 

roads.

59

OPERATION

Track Warm-Up

Follow these steps to ensure proper warm-up 
of the engine, drive train and track.

1. Use an appropriate stand to securely 

support the rear of the snowmobile at the 
rear bumper. The track should be 
approximately 4" (10 cm) off the 
ground.

2. Start the engine and allow it to warm up 

two to three minutes.

3. Depress the throttle abruptly and allow 

the track to rotate several revolutions.

NOTE:

It will take longer to warm up the track sufficiently during colder out-

door temperatures.

4. Release the throttle, apply the brakes, shut off the engine and lower 

the snowmobile to the ground.

5. Grasp the skis by their front loops and move them from side to side 

to loosen snow and ice.

WARNING

A loose track or flying debris could cause serious injury or death. Stand clear 

of the front of the machine and the moving track. Never hold the snowmobile 

up or stand behind it while warming up the track. Do not use excessive throt-

tle during warm-up or when the track is free-hanging. Be sure the rear sup-

port is stable.

WARNING

Use of traction products such as studs, ice growsers, etc. will increase the 

possibility of track damage and/or failure. This could cause loss of control, 

resulting in serious injury or death. Always inspect for track damage before 

operating the snowmobile.

60

OPERATION

Fuel Safety

WARNING

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive under certain conditions.
• Always exercise extreme caution whenever handling gasoline.
• Always refuel outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. 
• Always turn off the engine before refueling.
• Do not overfill the tank. Do not fill the tank neck.
• Do not smoke or allow open flames or sparks in or near the area where 

refueling is performed or where gasoline is stored.

• If gasoline spills on your skin or clothing, immediately wash it off with soap 

and water and change clothing.

• Never start the engine or let it run in an enclosed area. Engine exhaust 

fumes are poisonous and can cause loss of consciousness or death in a 

short time.

WARNING

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to cause 

cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Operate this vehicle only 

outdoors or in well-ventilated areas.