Snowmobile Polaris 550 Transport Trail Touring. Manual - part 2

6

SAFETY

Operator Safety

The following signal words and symbols appear throughout this manual 

and on your vehicle. Your safety is involved when these words and sym-

bols are used. Become familiar with their meanings before reading the 

manual.

The safety alert symbol, on your vehicle or in this manual, alerts you to the 

potential for injury.

WARNING

The safety alert warning indicates a potential hazard that may result in serious 

injury or death.

CAUTION

The safety alert caution indicates a potential hazard that may result in minor 

injury or damage to the vehicle.

CAUTION

A caution indicates a situation that may result in damage to the vehicle.

NOTE

A note will alert you to important information or instructions.

7

SAFETY

Operator Safety

Follow the recommended maintenance program beginning on page 72 

of this manual to ensure that all critical components on the snowmobile 

are thoroughly inspected by your dealer at specific mileage intervals.

WARNING

Driving a snowmobile requires your full attention. DO NOT drink alcohol or 

use drugs or medications before or while driving or riding as a passenger. 

They will reduce your alertness and slow your reaction time. 
Snowmobiles are capable of traveling at high speeds. Use extra caution to 

ensure operator safety. Make sure your snowmobile is in excellent operating 

condition at all times. Always check major and vital safety components 

before every ride.
All Polaris snowmobiles are designed and tested to provide safe operation 

when used as directed. Failure of critical machine components may result 

from operation with any modifications, especially those that increase speed 

or power. DO NOT MODIFY YOUR MACHINE. The snowmobile may 

become aerodynamically unstable at speeds higher than those for which it is 

designed. Loss of control may occur at higher speeds. Modifications may 

also create a safety hazard and lead to bodily injury.
The warranty on your entire machine is terminated if any equipment has 

been added, or any modifications have been made, to increase the speed or 

power of the snowmobile.

8

SAFETY

Operator Safety

Stay Clear of Track

Your snowmobile is propelled by a revolving track that must be partially 

exposed for proper operation.

Stay Clear of Engine

Never attempt adjustments with the engine running. Turn off the igni-

tion, raise the hood, make the adjustment, secure shields and guards, 

secure the hood, and then restart the engine to check its operation.

WARNING

Serious injuries may result if hands, feet, or 

clothing become entangled in the track. Be 

alert when riding, and remain properly 

seated to stay clear of the track.
Never hold the snowmobile up or stand 

behind it while warming up the track. A 

loose track or flying debris could cause 

serious injury or death. We recommend 

having your dealer perform all track service 

and alignment procedures.

WARNING

Serious injury can occur if fingers or clothing contact the moving parts of an 

engine. Always stop the engine before attempting adjustments.

9

SAFETY

Operator Safety

Riding Apparel

Be prepared, be warm and be comfortable 

when riding. Be aware of the weather fore-

cast, especially the windchill, and dress 

accordingly. See the chart on page 21.

Helmet
Wearing a helmet can prevent a severe head injury. Whenever riding a 

Polaris vehicle, always wear a helmet that meets or exceeds established 

safety standards.

Approved helmets in the USA and Canada bear a U.S. Department of 

Transportation (DOT) label.

Approved helmets in Europe, Asia and Oceania 

bear the ECE 22.05 label. The ECE mark consists 

of a circle surrounding the letter E, followed by the 

distinguishing number of the country which has 

granted approval. The approval number and serial 

number will also be displayed on the label.
Eye Protection
Do not depend on eyeglasses or sunglasses for eye protection. When-

ever riding a Polaris vehicle, always wear shatterproof goggles or use a 

shatterproof helmet face shield. Polaris recommends wearing approved 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) bearing markings such as VESC 

8, V-8, Z87.1, or CE. Make sure protective eye wear is kept clean.

WARNING

Avoid wearing loose clothing or long 

scarves, which can become entangled in 

moving parts and cause serious injury.

E

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