Snowmobile Polaris 600 RMK / 600 PRO RMK / 800 RMK / 800 PRO RMK / 800 RMK Assault. Manual - part 14

58

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.

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 snowmobile is operated. 
See page 70.

59

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

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 inch (1.3 
cm). A smaller distance indi-
cates low brake fluid level or 
air in the hydraulic system. 
Refer to the brake bleeding 
information on page 96 or 
see your dealer for service.

Lever Feel

If the brake lever feels “spongy” when squeezed, check the brake fluid 
level and condition. Add fluid as needed. See page 95. 

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 in. (1.3 cm)

60

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Parking Brake Lever Lock

Use the parking brake lever lock 
only when you want the snow-
mobile to remain stationary; for 
example, when parked on an 
incline for a period of five min-
utes 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 for-
ward 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.

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

61

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

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.

Track

Track damage or failure caused by operation on ice or poor lubrication 
conditions voids the track warranty.

WARNING! Operating the snowmobile with a damaged track increases the 
possibility of track failure, which could cause loss of control resulting in serious 
injury or death. Always inspect the track for damage before using the vehicle.

WARNING! Use of traction products such as studs increases the possibility of 
track damage and/or failure. Driving at high speeds for extended periods of time 
in marginal lubrication could severely damage track rods, break track edges, 
and cause other track damage. Examples of marginal lubrication would include 
frozen bodies of water without snow cover, icy trails, and no-snow conditions.

Hood and Side Panel Fasteners

The hood and side panels of the snowmobile protect the operator from 
moving parts. Never operate a snowmobile with the hood or side panels 
open or removed. Always ensure that the hood and side panels are 
securely in place before starting the engine.

Seat Latches

If your snowmobile is equipped with a removable seat, ensure that the 
seat is properly installed and securely latched before each use of the 
snowmobile.

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.