Snowmobile Polaris 550 Transport Trail Touring. Manual - part 21

82

MAINTENANCE

Fuel Filter/Fuel Lines

The fuel filter is located inside the fuel tank. This component requires 

no maintenance.

Inspect the fuel lines regularly for signs of deterioration or damage. 

Always check fuel line condition after periods of storage. Normal dete-

rioration from weather and fuel compounds may occur. Replace worn or 

damaged fuel lines promptly.

Oil Filter

The oil filter on your model is assembled into the oil sending unit 

located in the bottom of the oil tank. This component requires no main-

tenance.

If service is performed to the oil injection system, trapped air must be 

bled from the system. See your dealer for instructions, or have your 

dealer perform this service.

CAUTION

Kinking the fuel lines or using a pliers or similar tools to remove fuel lines 

may cause damage to the lines. If a fuel line has been damaged or kinked, 

replace it promptly.

83

MAINTENANCE

Carburetor

The number stamped in the end of the main jet indicates the jet size. The 

jet installed at the time of manufacture is not necessarily correct for your 

elevation. It's your dealer's responsibility to make sure the correct main 

jet is installed.

Carburetor Adjustments

The frequency at which the carburetors are synchronized or balanced is 

important. Properly adjusted carburetors can greatly improve engine 

performance, fuel economy, engine life, and reliability.

If you notice any of the following conditions, the carburetor may need 

adjustment:
• Hard starting
• Poor idle
• Overheated pistons and cylinder walls
• Plug fouling
• Poor engine response to various throttle valve openings

CAUTION

Operating the snowmobile with incorrect jetting can result in serious engine 

damage. Have your Polaris dealer perform all carburetor adjustments to 

ensure all adjustments are done correctly.

84

MAINTENANCE

Carburetor

Water/Sediment Trap Service

Most Polaris snowmobiles contain patented carburetor bowl water/sedi-

ment traps located at the bottom of each carburetor. The trap, consisting 

of a hose with a plug, should be drained at least every 2000 miles (3200 

km) and inspected for contamination.

1. Turn the fuel tank supply valve off.
2. Position a container or shop towels to 

catch the contaminated gasoline.

3. Slide the clamp away from the drain 

plug and remove the drain plug from 

the sediment tube.

4. Wipe residue from the plug and reinstall 

it. Reposition and tighten the clamps. 

Continue until all traps have been emp-

tied.

WARNING

When draining the traps, fuel spillage will occur. Always work in a well venti-

lated area away from anything that may cause the fuel to ignite, such as open 

flames, sparks, heaters, trouble lights, cigarettes, etc. Review the gasoline 

warnings

 

found on page 56.

Clamp

Drain 

Plug

85

MAINTENANCE

Exhaust System

Check the exhaust system for wear or damage at approximately 2000 

miles (3200 km). To inspect, allow the engine and exhaust system to 

cool completely. Open the hood and inspect the muffler and pipes for 

cracks or damage. Check for weak or missing retaining springs or 

damper/support grommets.

Drive Chain Tension

To obtain correct chain tension: 

1. Rotate the driven clutch 

counterclockwise to move all 

chain slack to the tensioner 

side. Lock the brake lever 

lock, or have an assistant 

hold the brake lever firmly.

2. Loosen the adjuster bolt jam 

nut.

3. Finger tighten the adjuster 

bolt until it can no longer be 

adjusted by hand, then back 

off 1/4 turn.

4. Tighten the jam nut while 

holding the adjuster bolt. 

Torque to 21 ft. lbs. (28 Nm).

5. Release the brake lever lock.

WARNING

Hot exhaust system parts can cause serious burns. Allow adequate time for 

the exhaust system to cool. Never perform this procedure with the engine 

running.

Jam 

Nut

Adjuster 

Bolt