Snowmobile Polaris 550 Transport Trail Touring. Manual - part 13

50

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

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Hood Latches

The hood of the snowmobile protects the operator from moving parts as 

well as aiding in sound emission control and other functions. Under no 

circumstances should your snowmobile be operated with the hood open 

or removed. Always ensure that the hood straps are in good condition 

and that the latches are securely in place before operating the snowmo-

bile.

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Seat Latches

If your snowmobile is equipped with a removable seat, ensure that the 

seat latches are securely in place before every use of the snowmobile.

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Recoil Rope

Inspect the recoil rope and handle for excessive wear, and make sure the 

knot securing the rope inside the handle is secure. If excessive wear is 

found, see your Polaris dealer for replacement.

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PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Start the Engine and Check

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Engine Stop Switch

Check the auxiliary shut-off switch for proper operation. Push the 

switch down to stop the engine. Pull it up to allow restarting.

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Ignition Switch

Make sure the engine stops when the ignition switch is turned to OFF.

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Lighting

Check the headlight (high and low beam), taillight, and brake light. 

Replace burned out lamps before operating.

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Mirror Adjustment (if equipped)

Adjust the mirrors so they can be used to their full advantage.

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Operating Area

Before driving away, check your surroundings. Be aware of obstacles 

and make sure bystanders are a safe distance from the machine.

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OPERATION

Starting the Engine

1. Turn the fuel valve on. See 

page 57.

2. Turn the key to the ON 

position.

3. Pull the engine stop switch 

up to the RUN position.

4. If starting a cold engine, 

flip the choke toggle to 

FULL CHOKE. Do not use 

the choke if starting a warm 

engine.

NOTE: Do not depress the throttle until the engine starts.

5. If equipped with electric start, turn the key to START to crank the 

engine. Release the key to the ON position when the engine starts.

6. If not equipped with electric start, grasp the recoil rope handle and 

pull slowly until the recoil engages; then pull abruptly to crank the 

engine.

7. Repeat the cranking procedure as needed until the engine starts.
8. After the engine starts, flip the choke toggle to the OFF position. If 

the engine slows or wants to stop, use intermittent choking to the 

HALF CHOKE position.

CAUTION

Engaging the starter when the engine is running WILL result in serious 

engine damage, especially if the transmission is in reverse. Never engage 

the starter when the engine is running.

WARNING

Don't pull the starter rope to the fully extended position and don't allow it to 

snap back into the housing. Damage may result.
To avoid injury and/or engine damage, do not operate the electric starter or 

pull-rope starter while the engine is running.

CHOKE POSITIONS

OFF

1/2 CHOKE

FULL CHOKE

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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 fuel with one pint of Polaris injection oil for each five gal-

lons of fuel. This, in addition to the lubrication supplied by the injection 

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.