Break-In Period

Content Source: 2021 550 Indy 144 Owner’s Manual (9931273 R01) > Operation 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.

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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 bottle with the recommended oil. Oil added to the fuel and oil injection systems will provide the necessary engine lubrication.

Oil Recommendations
First Tank of Fuel:	POLARIS Blue 2-Cycle Semi-Synthetic Oil
After Break-in:	POLARIS Blue 2-Cycle Semi-Synthetic Oil
Extreme Arctic Conditions, sustained temperature is at or below -40° F (-40° C)	POLARIS Blue 2-Cycle Semi-Synthetic Oil

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.

Fuel	POLARIS Blue 2-Cycle Semi-Synthetic Oil	Ratio
Each 5 gal. (19 l)	16 oz. (473 ml)	40:1

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-fitting 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, or an equivalent product, 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 snowmobile.

Oil Injection System

Always check and fill the oil bottle during pre-ride inspection and refueling.

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 or other certified technician 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.
New drive belts should be washed with warm, soapy water and allowed to air dry prior to 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 engaging throttle.