Snowmobile Polaris Turbo IQ LXT (2014 year). Manual - part 16

67

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

Before starting the engine, always refer to all safety warnings pertaining 
to snowmobile operation. Never start the engine without checking all 
vehicle components to be sure of proper operation.

WARNING! Operating the vehicle with worn, damaged, or malfunctioning 
components could result in serious injury or death. Never start the engine 
without checking all vehicle components to be sure of proper operation.

Read and Understand Your Owner's Manual

Read the Owner's Manual completely and refer to it often. The manual 
is your guide to safe and enjoyable snowmobiling experience.

Throttle Lever

The throttle and brake are the primary controls of your snowmobile. 
Always make sure both are functioning properly.

Squeeze the throttle lever to make sure it compresses evenly and 
smoothly. When released, the lever should immediately return to the 
idle position without binding or hesitation. If the throttle does not func-
tion smoothly, or if you discover excessive lever freeplay, DO NOT start 
the engine. Have the throttle serviced immediately.

Throttle Safety Switch

Test the throttle safety switch system before the snowmobile is operated. 
See page 84 for procedure.

Seat Latches

Ensure that the seat latches are securely in place before every use of the 
snowmobile.

68

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 snowmo-
bile.

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.

If your snowmobile is equipped with RIDER SELECT, perform this 
check in both the full up and full down steering positions.

69

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

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” (1.3 cm). 
A smaller distance indicates 
low brake fluid level or air in 
the hydraulic system. Refer 
to the brake bleeding infor-
mation on page 121.

Brake Lever Feel

If the brake lever feels “spongy” when squeezed, check the brake fluid 
level and condition. Add fluid as needed. See page 120.

Check for the presence of air in the fluid system. See page 121 for more 
information, 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” (1.3 cm)

70

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 on the gauge will light up if the parking brake 
lever lock is set while the engine is running. It will also be lit 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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