Snowmobile Polaris 600 Switchback / 800 Switchback (2013 year). Manual - part 17

68

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. 

Premix the first tank of fuel and fill the oil reservoir as outlined below. 
Oil added to the fuel and oil injection systems will provide the necessary 
engine lubrication.

See page 116 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.

Oil Recommendations

First Tank of Fuel:

POLARIS VES Gold Plus 2-Cycle Oil

After Break-in:

POLARIS VES Gold Plus 2-Cycle Oil

Fuel

VES Gold Plus Oil

Ratio

Each 5 gal. (19 l)

16 oz. (473 ml)

40:1

69

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-fit-
ting 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 snow-
mobile.

Oil Injection System

Always check and fill the oil bottle when refueling. See page 73.

NOTICE: Serious engine damage can occur without the proper lubrication. 

Check the oil bottle 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. 

Always take time to warm up the belt and driveline prior to operating 
the snowmobile. Free the track and skis from the ground before engag-
ing throttle.

70

OPERATION

Track Warm-Up

WARNING! A loose track or flying debris could cause serious injury or death. 
Stand clear of the front of the snowmobile and the moving track. Never hold the 
snowmobile up or stand behind it while warming up the track. Do not use 
excessive throttle during warm-up or when the track is free-hanging. Use a 
stable rear support.

WARNING! Use of traction products such as studs will increase the possibility 
of track damage and/or failure. This could cause loss of control, resulting in 
serious injury or death. Always inspect for track damage before operating the 
snowmobile.

Follow these steps to ensure proper warm-up of the engine, drive train 
and track.

1. Never rotate a dry track. For best track performance, always lubri-

cate the track with water or snow before rotating the track.

2. Use an appropriate stand to securely support the rear of the snow-

mobile at the rear bumper. The track should be about 4 inches (10 
cm) off the ground.

3. Start the engine and allow it to warm up two to three minutes.

4. Depress the throttle abruptly and allow the track to rotate several 

revolutions.

TIP: It will take longer to warm up the track sufficiently during colder outdoor 

temperatures.

5. Release the throttle, apply the brakes, shut off the engine and lower 

the snowmobile to the ground.

6. Grasp the skis by their front loops and move them from side to side 

to loosen snow and ice.

Slide Rail and Track Cooling

NOTICE: Inadequate cooling and lubrication will lead to overheating of the slide 

rail and track, resulting in premature wear and failure. Reduce speeds 
and frequently drive into fresh snow to allow adequate cooling and 
polishing of the slide rail and track surfaces. Avoid operating on ice, 
hard-packed surfaces or roads.

71

OPERATION

Fuel

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive under certain conditions.

• Always exercise extreme caution whenever handling gasoline.

• Always refuel outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. 

• Always turn off the engine before refueling.

• Do not overfill the tank. Do not fill the tank neck.

• Do not smoke or allow open flames or sparks in or near the area where refu-

eling is performed or where gasoline is stored.

• If gasoline spills on your skin or clothing, immediately wash it off with soap 

and water and change clothing.

• Never start the engine or let it run in an enclosed area. Engine exhaust fumes 

are poisonous and can cause loss of consciousness or death in a short time.

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to cause can-
cer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Operate this vehicle only outdoors 
or in well-ventilated areas.

WARNING

WARNING