Snowmobile Polaris 550 IQ Shift / 550 IQ 136 / 550 IQ LXT (2013 year). Manual - part 9

38

THE PERFECT FIT

Handlebar Adjustments

When making handlebar adjustments, always be sure the handlebars, 
brake lever and throttle lever operate smoothly and do not contact the 
fuel tank, windshield or any other part of the vehicle when the handle-
bars are turned fully to the left or right.

Handlebar Position

Follow these steps to adjust handlebar position.

1. Remove the handlebar cover.

2. Loosen the four upper and four lower adjuster block bolts.

3. Adjust the handlebar to the desired position.

4. Torque the front bolts first, then torque the rear bolts. Torque the 

bolts to 15-17 ft. lbs. (20-23 Nm).

5. Reinstall the handlebar cover.

Upper 
Bolts

Lower 
Bolts

39

THE PERFECT FIT

Handlebar Adjustments

Handlebar Angle

Follow these steps to adjust handlebar angle at the handlebar block.

1. Remove the handlebar cover.

2. Loosen the four upper adjuster block bolts.

3. Adjust the handlebar to the desired angle.

4. Torque the bolts to 15-17 ft. lbs. (20-23 Nm).

5. Reinstall the handlebar cover.

Accessories

POLARIS offers a wide range of accessories for your snowmobile to 
help make each ride more enjoyable.

Use only POLARIS parts and accessories on your POLARIS snowmo-
bile. 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, but is not limited to the following areas: brakes, clutches, 
fuel systems, and exhaust systems.

Tip: Exhaust systems are critical safety areas that must use approved POLARIS 

parts. Please see your POLARIS dealer for service.

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 refer-
enced pages.

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.