Snowmobile Polaris 600 IQ Widetrak (2017 year). Manual - part 11

47

THE PERFECT FIT

Rear Suspension Adjustments

Rider weight, cargo weight, riding style, trail conditions and vehicle 
speed all affect suspension action.

Each rear suspension can be adjusted to suit rider preference and deliver 
the best performance for a given set of conditions. However, all 
suspension designs and adjustments involve a compromise, or trade-off. 
For example, a suspension set up for snow-cross racing would provide a 
very stiff ride on the trail. A suspension set up for trail riding would 
bottom out harshly on a snow-cross course.

Make adjustments to one area at a time so you can evaluate the change. 
For further assistance, please see your POLARIS dealer.

Suspension Performance Tips

• Rider weight usually determines the position at which the spring 

preload should be set. However, this may vary with riding style. With 
a little experimentation, each rider can find a preferred set-up. 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 a 

worn slide. It can also improve top speed.

• 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 suspension lubrication information beginning on page 80.

48

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 extension. 

Tip: The rear bumper may need to be raised 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 distance 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). Adjust sag by rotating the torsion 
spring preload cams located on the rear torque arm. See page 49.

The ideal amount of sag for this rear suspension is 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) 
(X-Y=2.5 in./6.4 cm).

X

Y

No Rider

With Rider

49

THE PERFECT FIT

Rear Suspension Adjustments

Torsion Spring Preload

To adjust rear torsion spring preload, rotate the three-position cam using 
the engine spark plug tool. This adjustment is easier to make if tension 
is relieved from the spring. Exercise extreme caution if you use this 
method of adjustment, and follow the steps below carefully. 

WARNING! A sudden release of tension from a spring could result in serious 
injury. Wear eye protection and maintain a firm grip on the spring when 
removing and installing it.

1. Grasp the spring firmly with both hands.

2. Maintain a firm grip on the spring and carefully remove the long leg 

from the guide block. Be prepared for a sudden release of tension.

3. Carefully allow the leg to unwind and relieve tension from the cam.

4. Rotate the cam to the desired setting.

5. Rewind the long leg of the spring. Maintain a firm grip on the spring 

while reinstalling it into the guide block.

Tip: Different rate torsion springs may be available if a firmer ride is desired. 

Contact your dealer for more information.

The following information is provided only as a guideline to be used for 
initial suspension set-up. Your set-up may vary based on your desired 
riding style.

Soft (long end of cam to front)

Medium (short end of cam up)

Firm (long end of cam up)

Soft

Medium

Firm

50

THE PERFECT FIT

Rear Suspension Adjustments

Limiter Strap Position (Ski Pressure)

The following information is 
provided only as a guideline to 
be used for initial suspension 
set-up. Your set-up may vary 
based on your desired riding 
style.

High: Limiter strap in high 
position

 

increases ski pressure

Low: Limiter strap in low 
position decreases ski pressure

Shock Compression Valving

The rear track shocks for this model are gas charged shocks. The 
valving on the gas charged shocks is pre-set. 

High

Low