Snowmobile Polaris 600 IQ LXT (2015 year). Manual - part 17

71

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Start the Engine and Check

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.

Lighting

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

Mirror Adjustment

If equipped, adjust your mirrors so they can be used to their full 
advantage.

Tether Switch (if equipped)

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

Operating Area

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

72

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 as outlined below. Oil added to the fuel and 
oil injection systems will provide the necessary engine lubrication.

Tip: The Premium Blue oil will seat the rings faster than the VES oil.

See page 122 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 Premium Blue 2-Cycle Oil

After Break-in:

POLARIS VES 2-Cycle Oil

Fuel

Premium Blue Oil

Ratio

Each 5 gal. (19 l)

16 oz. (473 ml)

40:1

73

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-
fitting 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 tank when refueling. See page 77.

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

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

Drive Belt Break-In

The break-in period for a new drive belt is 30 miles (48 km). During this 
time, vary the throttle position under 50% and limit full throttle use. 

New drive belts should be washed with warm, soapy water and allowed 
to air dry prior to 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.

74

OPERATION

Slide Rail and Track Cooling

NOTICE: Inadequate cooling and lubrication will lead to overheating of the slide 

rail and track, resulting in premature wear and failure. Reduce speeds 
and frequently drive into fresh snow to allow adequate cooling and 
polishing of the slide rail and track surfaces. Avoid operating on ice, 
hard-packed surfaces or roads.

Track Warm-Up

A loose track or flying debris could cause serious injury or death. Stand clear of 
the front of the machine and the moving track. Never hold the snowmobile up or 
stand behind it while warming up the track. Do not use excessive throttle during 
warm-up or when the track is free-hanging. Be sure the rear support is stable.

Use of traction products such as studs, ice growsers, etc. will increase the possi-
bility of track damage and/or failure. This could cause loss of control, resulting in 
serious injury or death. Always inspect for track damage before operating the 
snowmobile.

Follow these steps to ensure proper warm-up of the engine, drive train 
and track.

1. Use an appropriate stand to securely support the rear of the 

snowmobile at the rear bumper. The track should be approximately 
4" (10 cm) off the ground.

2. Start the engine and allow it to warm up two to three minutes.

3. Depress the throttle abruptly and allow the track to rotate several 

revolutions.

Tip: It will take longer to warm up the track sufficiently during colder outdoor 

temperatures.

4. Release the throttle, apply the brakes, shut off the engine and lower 

the snowmobile to the ground.

5. Grasp the skis by their front loops and move them from side to side 

to loosen snow and ice.

WARNING

WARNING