Snowmobile Polaris RMK Shift / RMK / Dragon RMK (2008 year). Manual - part 12

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Pre-Ride Checklist

Inspect all items on the checklist for proper operation or condition
before each use of the snowmobile. Procedures are outlined on the refer-
enced pages. Look for a checkmark (n) on the referenced pages to
locate the pre-ride inspection items.

Item

See Page

Drive Belt Condition

Steering System

Recoil Rope

Parking Brake Lock/Brake Lever/Brake System

51, 52, 91

Throttle Lever

Throttle Safety Switch

Auxiliary Shut-Off Switch (Engine Stop Switch)

55, 65

Ignition Switch

55, 65

Taillight/Brakelight/Headlight

Coolant Level

Gearcase Oil Level

N/A

Engine Oil Level

Suspension Mounting Bolts

Skags (Wear Bars)

107

Ski Saddle and Spindle Bolts

Hood Straps/Latches

Seat Latches (if equipped)

N/A

Rear Wheel Idler Bolts

54, 103

Tether Switch/Strap

Track Alignment/Condition

53, 104

Rail Slide Condition

108

Chaincase Oil Level

Oil Level

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.

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 63 for procedure.

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.

WARNING

Operating the vehicle with worn, damaged, or malfunctioning components

could result in serious injury or death. Never start the engine without check-

ing all vehicle components to be sure of proper operation.

PRE-RIDE INSPECTIONS

Before Starting the Engine

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.

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 94.
Brake Lever Feel
If the brake lever feels “spongy” when squeezed, check the brake fluid
level and condition. Add fluid as needed. See page 93.

Check for the presence of air in the fluid system. See page 94 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)

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.

NOTE:

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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