Snowmobile Polaris 600 Switchback / 800 Switchback (2013 year). Manual - part 16

64

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Parking Brake Lever Lock

Use the parking 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.

TIP: 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 parking 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.

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65

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Steering System

WARNING! Ice and snow build-up may interfere with the steering of your 
snowmobile, resulting in serious injury or death. Keep the underhood area free 
of snow and ice.

Before driving, manually turn the skis to the left and right to be sure ice 
and snow are not interfering with full left and right steering. If difficulty 
is encountered, remove ice and snow build-up that may be obstructing 
the steering linkage.

Track

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

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 
in 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.

Side Panel Fasteners

The side panels of the snowmobile protect the operator from moving 
parts. Never operate the snowmobile with the side panels open or 
removed.

Seat Latches

If your snowmobile is equipped with a removable seat, ensure that the 
seat is properly installed and securely latched before each 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.

66

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Start the Engine and Check

Before starting the engine, always refer to all safety warnings pertaining 
to snowmobile operation. Never engage the starter when the engine is 
running. Never start the engine without checking all vehicle components 
to be sure of proper operation. See Before Starting the Engine beginning 
on page 62.

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.

Tether Switch (if equipped)

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

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

67

OPERATION

Starting the Engine

NOTICE: Engaging the starter when the engine is running WILL result in serious 

engine damage, especially if the snowmobile is in reverse. Never 
engage the starter when the engine is running.

1. Turn the key to the ON position.

2. Pull the engine stop switch up to the RUN position.

3. 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.

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

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

TIP: 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.

5. If the engine does not start after several attempts, slightly depress 

the throttle (no more than 1/4 inch (6 mm) open) while cranking the 
engine. When the engine starts, immediately release the throttle.

CAUTION! To avoid injury and/or engine damage, do not operate the electric 
starter or pull-rope starter while the engine is running.

NOTICE: Operating the vehicle immediately after cold starting could cause 

engine damage. Allow the engine to warm up for several minutes 
before operating the vehicle. If cold drive-away is attempted, the 
engine RPM may stumble slightly to protect the engine.

Restarting an Engine

If the rider stops the engine by pushing the engine stop switch down, 
restart the engine using the normal starting procedure. If the engine fails 
to start using the normal procedure:

1. Push the engine stop switch down to the OFF position.

2. Turn the key to the OFF position.

3. With both switches OFF, squeeze and hold the throttle in the wide 

open position.

4. Crank the engine several times to draw fresh air through the engine.

5. Release the throttle.

6. Restart the engine using the normal starting procedure.