Snowmobile Polaris Widetrak LX (2014 year). Manual - part 10

41

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Hydraulic 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 indicates low brake fluid 
level or air in the hydraulic 
system. See page 77 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.

Check for the presence of air in the fluid system. See page 77 or see 
your dealer for service.

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 inch (1.3 cm)

42

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Parking Brake Lever Lock

Your snowmobile may have a 
parking brake lever lock located 
over the brake lever. Use the 
brake lever lock only when you 
want the snowmobile to remain 
stationary; for example, when 
parked on an incline for a period 
of five minutes 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 forward on 
the lock. Hold the lock forward while releasing the brake lever.

NOTICE: 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 brake light will illuminate if the parking brake lever lock is set 
while the engine is running. It will also illuminate 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

43

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Steering System

Manually turn the skis completely to the right and to the left. If any 
difficulty is encountered, check for ice and snow build-up that may be 
obstructing the steering linkage. Make sure all greasable components 
are properly lubricated.

Track

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 
with 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.

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

44

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Hood Latches

The hood of the snowmobile protects the operator from moving parts as 
well as aiding in sound emission control and other functions. Under no 
circumstances should your snowmobile be operated with the hood open 
or removed. Always ensure that the hood straps are in good condition 
and that the latches are securely in place before operating the 
snowmobile.

Seat Latches

If your snowmobile is equipped with a removable seat, ensure that the 
seat latches are securely in place before every 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.

Transmission

Make sure the transmission is not in reverse before starting the engine 
(if equipped with reverse).