Snowmobile Polaris Widetrak LX (2014 year). Manual - part 11

45

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.

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

Ignition Switch

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

46

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 fuel valve on. See 

page 27.

2. Turn the key to the ON 

position.

3. Pull the engine stop switch 

up to the RUN position.

4. If starting a cold engine, 

flip the choke toggle to 
FULL CHOKE. Do not 
use the choke if starting a 
warm engine. Do not 
depress the throttle until 
the engine starts.

5. 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.

NOTICE: 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. To avoid engine 
damage, do not operate the electric starter or pull-rope starter while 
the engine is running.

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

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

7. Repeat the cranking procedure as needed until the engine starts.

8. After the engine starts, flip the choke toggle to the OFF position. If 

the engine slows or wants to stop, use intermittent choking to the 
HALF CHOKE position.

CHOKE POSITIONS

OFF

HALF ON

FULL ON

47

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. 

Oil Recommendations

Engine lubrication comes from oil added to the fuel and oil injection 
systems. Premix the first tank of fuel as outlined below. POLARIS 
recommends the use of POLARIS Premium 2-Cycle Semi-Synthetic Oil 
or VES Gold Plus 2-Cycle Oil for this engine. See page 106 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.

Fuel

Semi-Synthetic Oil

Ratio

Each 5 gal. (19 l)

16 oz. (473 ml)

40:1

48

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 
snowmobile.

Oil Injection System

Always check and fill the oil tank when refueling. See page 51.

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 that feature a sanded finish should be first 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.