Snowmobile Polaris Widetrak LX (2014 year). Manual - part 17

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MAINTENANCE

Spark Plugs

It’s very important to use the correct spark plug for your snowmobile. A 
spark plug with a heat range too high will cause engine damage. A spark 
plug with a heat range too low will cause excessive fouling and engine 
malfunctioning.

In selecting a spark plug heat range for production, a manufacturer 
assumes that the engine will be operated under extreme heavy duty 
conditions and selects a spark plug that will protect the engine from 
internal damage if the purchaser actually does operate the engine in this 
manner. This selection could cause the customer who normally operates 
the engine under medium or light duty to have spark plug failure. 

NOTICE: A spark plug with a heat range too high will always cause engine 

damage if the engine is operated in conditions more severe than 
intended for that plug. Always use the spark plugs recommended for 
your snowmobile. Refer to the specifications section beginning on 
page 104.

A new engine can cause temporary spark plug fouling due to the 
preservative added during the assembly process. Avoid prolonged idle 
speeds, which cause plug fouling and carbonization.
• Use recommended spark plugs with the proper gap. Refer to the 

specifications section beginning on page 104.

• Spark plug torque is 18-22 ft. lbs. (24.4-29.8 Nm).
• Always carry spare spark plugs in case of an emergency.

NOTICE: Using non-recommended spark plugs can result in serious engine 

damage. Always use POLARIS-recommended spark plugs.

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MAINTENANCE

Spark Plugs

Spark plug condition is indicative of engine operation. The spark plug 
firing end condition should be read after the engine has been warmed up 
and the vehicle has been driven at higher speeds. Immediately check the 
spark plug for correct color.

CAUTION! A hot exhaust system and engine can cause burns. Wear 
protective gloves when removing a spark plug for inspection.

Tip: Incorrect fuel mixture can often cause a spark plug to appear too dark or too 

light in color. Before changing spark plug heat ranges, be sure the correct 
main jet is installed in the carburetor(s). Refer to the specifications section 
beginning on page 104.

Normal Plug

The normal insulator tip is gray, tan or light brown. There will be few 
combustion deposits. The electrodes are not burned or eroded. This 
indicates the proper type and heat range for the engine and the service.

The tip should not be white. A white insulator tip indicates overheating, 
caused by use of an improper spark plug or incorrect carburetion 
adjustments.

Wet Fouled Plug

The wet fouled insulator tip is black. A damp oil film covers the firing 
end. There may be a carbon layer over the entire nose. Generally, the 
electrodes are not worn. General causes of fouling are excessive oil, use 
of non-recommended injection oil, improper use of the choke, or 
incorrect carburetion adjustments.

Spark Plug Removal and Replacement

1. Remove the spark plug cap.

2. Using the special wrench provided in the tool pouch, rotate the 

spark plug counterclockwise to remove it.

3. Reverse the procedure for spark plug installation. Torque to 18-22 

ft. lbs. (24.4-29.8 Nm).

4. Reinstall the spark plug cap.

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MAINTENANCE

Intake Filter

The intake foam filter and screen limits snow ingestion into the intake 
system. When operating in loose powder snow, check the top of the 
foam filter and screen periodically to remove any accumulation of snow.

NOTICE: Operating the snowmobile with the intake filters removed may cause 

carburetor icing. The result will be poor fuel economy or carburetor 
malfunction. Always reinstall the intake filters before operating the 
snowmobile.

These illustrations are general representations.Your model may differ.

Intake

Foam Filter and Screen

Foam Filter

Air Intake Box

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MAINTENANCE

Carburetor

Water/Sediment Trap Service

Most POLARIS snowmobiles contain patented carburetor bowl water/
sediment traps located at the bottom of each carburetor. The trap, 
consisting of a hose with a plug, should be drained about every 1000 
miles (1600 km) and inspected for contamination.

WARNING! When draining the traps, fuel spillage will occur. Always work in a 
well ventilated area away from anything that may cause the fuel to ignite, such 
as open flames, sparks, heaters, trouble lights, cigarettes, etc. Review the 
gasoline warnings found on page 50.

Plug Cleaning Procedure

1. Turn the fuel valve off.

2. Position a container or shop towels to 

catch the contaminated gasoline.

3. Slide the clamp away from the drain 

plug and remove the drain plug from the 
sediment tube.

4. Wipe residue from the plug and reinstall 

it. Reposition and tighten the clamps. 
Continue until all the traps have been 
emptied.

Clamp

Drain 
Plug