Snowmobile Polaris 600 RMK / 600 PRO RMK / 800 RMK / 800 PRO RMK / 800 RMK Assault. Manual - part 15

62

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Start the Engine and Check

Before starting the engine, always refer to all safety warnings pertaining 
to snowmobile operation. Never engage the starter when the engine is 
running. Never start the engine without checking all vehicle components 
to be sure of proper operation. See Before Starting the Engine beginning 
on page 58.

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.

Ignition Switch

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

Tether Switch (if equipped)

If your snowmobile has a tether switch, remove the tether from the 
switch to make sure the engine stops immediately.

Lighting

Check the headlight (high and low beam), taillight, and brake light. 
Replace burned out lamps before operating.

Mirrors (if equipped)

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

Operating Area

Before driving away, check your surroundings. Be aware of obstacles 
and make sure bystanders are a safe distance from the snowmobile. 

63

OPERATION

Starting the Engine

NOTICE: 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.

1. Turn the key to the ON position.

2. Pull the engine stop switch up to the RUN position.

3. 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.

4. If not equipped with electric start, grasp the starter handle and pull 

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

TIP: 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.

5. If the engine does not start after several attempts, slightly depress 

the throttle no more than 1/4 inch (2.54 cm) open while cranking the 
engine. When the engine starts, immediately release the throttle.

CAUTION! To avoid injury and/or engine damage, do not operate the electric 
starter or pull-rope starter while the engine is running.

NOTICE: Operating the vehicle immediately after cold starting could cause 

engine damage. Allow the engine to warm up for several minutes 
before operating the vehicle. If cold drive-away is attempted, the 
engine RPM may stumble slightly to protect the engine.

Restarting an Engine

If the rider stops the engine by pushing the engine stop switch down, 
restart the engine using the normal starting procedure. If the engine fails 
to start using the normal procedure:

1. Push the engine stop switch down to the OFF position.

2. Turn the key to the OFF position.

3. With both switches OFF, squeeze and hold the throttle in the wide 

open position.

4. Crank the engine several times to clear the engine.

5. Release the throttle.

6. Restart the engine using the normal starting procedure.

64

OPERATION

Break-In Period

Engine Break-In

Always follow these recommended break-in procedures for new or 
rebuilt engines. The first tank of fuel is considered the break-in period 
for the engine. 

Premix the first tank of fuel and fill the oil reservoir as outlined below. 
Oil added to the fuel and oil injection systems will provide the necessary 
engine lubrication.

See page 116 for the part numbers of POLARIS products.

Never mix brands of oil. Serious chemical reactions can cause injection 
system blockage, resulting in serious engine damage. Oils may also be 
incompatible and the result could be sludge formation, filter blockage, 
and reduced cold weather flow rates. All POLARIS oils are compatible 
with each other.

Initial Fuel Premix

Always premix fuel in 5-gallon (19-liter) increments in a separate fuel 
container. Never add oil directly to the fuel tank.

Oil Recommendations

First Tank of Fuel:

POLARIS VES Gold Plus 2-Cycle Oil

After Break-in:

POLARIS VES Gold Plus 2-Cycle Oil

Fuel

VES Gold Plus Oil

Ratio

Each 5 gal. (19 l)

16 oz. (473 ml)

40:1

65

OPERATION

Break-In Period

Engine Break-In

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 openings and vehicle speeds to reduce friction on all close-fit-
ting machined parts, allowing them to break in slowly without damage.

NOTICE: 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 snow-
mobile.

Oil Injection System

Always check and fill the oil bottle when refueling. See page 69.

NOTICE: Serious engine damage can occur without the proper lubrication. 

Check the oil bottle level often during the first tank of fuel. If the oil 
level doesn't go down, contact your dealer immediately.

Drive Belt/QUICKDRIVE Belt Break-In

The length of the break-in period varies depending on the type of drive 
system. The break-in period for a new drive belt is 30 miles (48 km). 
The break-in period for a new QUICKDRIVE belt is 100 miles (160 
km).

• During the break-in period, vary the throttle position under 50% and 

limit full throttle use. 

• Always take time to warm up the belt and driveline prior to operating 

the snowmobile. Free the track and skis from the ground before 
engaging throttle.

QUICKDRIVE Belt

During the 100 miles (160 km) of belt break-in, the rider will hear a 
sound made by the drive system. After the break-in period, the sound 
will become similar to that of a traditional chaincase.

During the break-in period, this belt will shed a fiber-type material in 
and around the drive system. Use a dry shop towel to clean the residue.