2002 Polaris Universal Snowmobile Owners Manual - Page 151

MAINTENANCE Suspension Maintenance Loose nuts and bolts can reduce your snowmobile's reliability and cause needless repairs and down time. Before beginning any snowmobile trip, a visual inspection will uncover potential problems. Check the following items on a weekly basis or before any long trip: n Check rear idler wheel bolts for tightness. n Check rear idler adjusting bolt locknuts for tightness. n Check front torque arm limiter strap condition. n Check slide rail Hi-fax condition greatly affects performance - have your dealer replace when worn to minimum thickness. n Check track tension (beginning on page 140). n Lubricate/grease all suspension components (see pages 101-106). n Check ski runner/skag condition. Extended Storage Off-season or extended storage of your snowmobile requires preventive measures to aid against deterioration and to prolong the useful life of many components. Cleaning and Preservation of Hood, Chassis, and Trim Proper storage starts with cleaning, washing, and waxing the hood, chassis, and plastic parts. Wipe down remaining surfaces with a damp cloth. Clean and touch up with paint any rusted or previously painted surfaces. Be sure that corrosive salt and acids are removed from surfaces before beginning preservation with waxes and rust inhibitors (grease, oil or paint). The machine should be stored in a dry garage or shed, out of direct sunlight, and covered with a fabric snowmobile cover. Plastic tarp may cause condensation to form and damage snowmobile components. Controls and Linkage All bushings, spindle shafts, and tie rod ends should receive a light coat of oil or grease. Throttle controls and cables should be lubricated with Polaris cable lubricant (PN 2870510. Force a small amount of lubricant down the cable. 149