Content Source: 2021 550 Indy 144 Owner’s Manual (9931273 R01) > Pre-Ride Inspections Chapter

IMPORTANT

The Owner's Manual for this vehicle contains warnings, instructions and other information you must read and fully understand before safely riding or performing maintenance on this vehicle.Always follow the warnings and instructions in Owner's Manual.

Click the CONTENTS link above for the Table Of Contents, or download a full PDF of the Owner Manual in the Owner Support area of Polaris.com

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 function 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.

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 0.5 inch (1.3 cm). A smaller distance indicates low brake fluid level or air in the hydraulic system. See page 87 or see your dealer for service.

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Lever Feel

If the brake lever feels “spongy” when squeezed, check the brake fluid level and condition. Add fluid as needed. See the Brake Fluid section for details.
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.

Parking Brake Lever Lock

Use the 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.

Brake Lever
Parking Brake Lever Lock
Master Cylinder Reservoir/Cover
Fluid Level Indicator

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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.
NOTICE
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.

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.

Seat Latches

If your snowmobile is equipped with a removable or tip-up seat, ensure that the seat latches are securely in place before every use of the snowmobile.

Hood and Side Panel Fasteners

caution
The hood and side panels of the snowmobile protect the operator from moving parts. Never operate a snowmobile with the hood or side panels open or removed. Always ensure that the hood and side panels are securely in place 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, your POLARIS dealer can provide a replacement.

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.

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.

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