Snowmobile Polaris 600 IQ Touring (2010 year). Manual - part 16

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PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Before starting the engine, always refer to all safety warnings pertaining 

to snowmobile operation. Never start the engine without checking all 

vehicle components to be sure of proper operation.

WARNING! Operating the vehicle with worn, damaged, or malfunctioning 

components could result in serious injury or death. Never start the engine 

without checking all vehicle 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.

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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.

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Throttle Safety Switch

Test the throttle safety switch system before the snowmobile is operated. 

See page 78 for procedure.

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Seat Latches

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

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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Steering System

WARNING! Ice and snow build-up may interfere with the steering of your 

snowmobile, resulting in serious injury or death. Keep the underhood area free 

of snow and ice.

Before driving, manually turn the skis to the left and right to be sure ice 

and snow are not interfering with full left and right steering. If difficulty 

is encountered, remove ice and snow build-up that may be obstructing 

the steering linkage.
If your snowmobile is equipped with RIDER SELECT, perform this 

check in both the full up and full down steering positions.

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PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

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Brakes

Always check the following items for proper operation before starting 

the engine.
Brake Lever Travel
Squeeze the brake lever. It 

should move no closer to the 

handgrip than 1/2" (1.3 cm). 

A smaller distance indicates 

low brake fluid level or air in 

the hydraulic system. Refer 

to the brake bleeding infor-

mation on page 102.
Brake Lever Feel
If the brake lever feels “spongy” when squeezed, check the brake fluid 

level and condition. Add fluid as needed. See page 101.
Check for the presence of air in the fluid system. See page 102 for more 

information, or see your dealer for service.

WARNING! Continued use of “spongy” brakes may cause a complete loss of 

brakes, which could result in serious injury or death. Always have the brakes 

serviced at the first sign of sponginess.

1/2" (1.3 cm)

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PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

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Parking Brake Lever Lock

Use the parking brake lever lock only 

when you want the snowmobile to 

remain stationary; for example, when 

parked on an incline for a period of 

five minutes or less.
1. Brake Lever
2. Parking Brake Lever Lock
3. Master Cylinder Reservoir/Cover
4. Fluid Level Indicator

Lock Engagement
To engage the lock, squeeze the brake lever tightly and push forward on 

the lock. Hold the lock forward while releasing the brake lever.

Tip: If the brake lever is squeezed tightly enough, the lock will move freely into 

place. Do not force the lock or it may break. 

The parking brake light on the gauge will light up if the parking brake 

lever lock is set while the engine is running. It will also be lit when the 

service brake is in use. If the parking brake light does not come on when 

the parking brake or service brake is in use, have it serviced by your 

dealer.
Lock Release
To release the lock, squeeze the brake lever tightly. The lock will return 

to the unlocked position. 

WARNING! If the parking brake lever lock is partially or entirely engaged while 

riding, the brakes may overheat, resulting in brake damage. In extreme cases it 

could cause a fire, which could result in serious injury or death. Always ensure 

that the lever lock is completely disengaged before operating the snowmobile.

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