Snowmobile Polaris 550 IQ Shift / 550 IQ 136 / 550 IQ LXT (2013 year). Manual - part 7

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.

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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.

32

THE PERFECT FIT

Rear Suspension Adjustments

Initial Spring Preload Setting (Sag Method)

To set up the rear suspension torsion 
spring preload, measure the distance 
between the ground and rear bumper. This 
is measurement X.

Take the first measurement with no rider 
and with the rear suspension at full exten-
sion. 

Tip: The rear bumper may need to be lifted 

upward slightly to fully extend the rear 
suspension.

Next, have the rider drop down hard on 
the seat and bounce up and down several 
times, collapsing the rear suspension. 
With the rider seated, measure the dis-
tance between the ground and the rear 
bumper at the exact location used for 
measurement X. This is measurement Y.

To determine sag, commonly referred to 
as ride-in, subtract measurement Y from 
X (sag=X-Y). If the measured sag is 
incorrect, adjust the FRA position and/or 
rear torsion spring preload.

Tip: This is only an initial setup, and final spring preload may vary based on rider 

preference and riding conditions. Accessory springs with a higher load rat-
ing are available for some models. Please see your dealer for availability.

Suspension

Recommended Sag

Adjustment

See 

Page

IQ (121)

4-5 inches (10-13 cm)

Torsion Spring 

Preload

33

IQ Comfort 

(136)

4-5 inches (10-13 cm)

Torsion Spring 

Preload

33

X

Y

33

THE PERFECT FIT

IQ Rear Suspension Adjustments

Torsion Spring Preload

To adjust rear torsion spring preload, rotate the three-position cam using 
the engine spark plug tool. Adjustment is easiest when the cam is 
rotated from low to medium, and then to high. Rotating directly from 
low to high will require significantly more effort.

Different rate torsion springs are available if a firmer ride is desired. See 
your dealer for more information. 

Limiter Strap Position (Ski Pressure)

Ski pressure is set at the factory to 
deliver the optimum balance 
between ride and handling. If a 
rider prefers more ski pressure for 
improved steering performance, 
adjustments can be made to the 
front limiter straps. Tighten the 
straps to increase ski pressure. 
Loosen the straps to reduce ski 
pressure.

1. Remove the nuts and flat 

washers from the upper limiter 
straps.

2. Relocate the straps to the desired position.

3. Reinstall the nuts and washers. Tighten securely.

Soft

Medium

Firm

Upper

Nuts