Ski-Doo REV XP 2008 Series Manual

Mmo2008-003_REV XP_520000689_ang.FH10 Fri May 18 15:47:13 2007 Page 1
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SAFETY WARNING
Disregarding any of the safety precautions and instructions contained in this
Operator’s Guide, SAFETY VIDEO or on-product warnings may result in injury,
including the possibility of death.
This Operator’s Guide and SAFETY VIDEO should remain with the snowmobile
at time of resale.
In USA, products are distributed by BRP US Inc.
In Canada, products are distributed by Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
The following are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its
subsidiaries.
DESSTM RAVE™ ROTAXTM SUMMIT®
HPG™ RERTM SC™ TRA™
MX Z®Renegade™ SKI-DOO®X™
GSX®
mmo2008-003 DR
®™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.
©2007 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. and BRP US Inc. All rights reserved.

FOREWORD
Congratulations on your purchase of a
new SKI-DOO®snowmobile. What-
ever model you have chosen, it is
backed by the Bombardier Recre-
ational Products Inc. (BRP) warranty
and a network of authorized SKI-DOO
snowmobile dealers ready to provide
the parts, service or accessories you
may require.
The Operator's Guide has been pre-
pared to acquaint the owner/operator
and passenger with this new snow-
mobile and its various controls, main-
tenance and safe riding instructions.
This guide is indispensable for the
proper use of the product and should
be kept with this snowmobile at all
times.
Make sure you read and understand
the content of this Operator's Guide.
After reading, please keep this Oper-
ator's Guide with the snowmobile. If
the snowmobile is resold, please give
the guide to the new owner for his
awareness.
If you want to view and/or print an
extra copy of your Operator's Guide,
simply visit the following website
www.operatorsguide.brp.com.Al-
so note that the guide is available in
several languages.
If you have any question regarding any
topic whether or not it is covered in
this Operator's Guide, please call BRP
at the number below and we will be
happy to assist you:
In USA:
715 848-4957
In Canada:
819 566-3366
For Russia, CIS and the middle east:
+ 32 9 218 26 00
For Scandinavian and European
countries:
+ 358 16 3208 111
For all other countries, please con-
tact your respective distributor (his
coordinates are on www.brp.com)
or our North American office:
+ 1 819 566-3366
This guide uses the following safety
alert symbol in conjunction with signal
words to indicate a potential personal
injury hazard.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious
injury.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided,
may result in minor or moderate
injury. When used without the
safety alert symbol , potential
hazard exists for property damage
only.
NOTE: Indicates supplementary infor-
mation needed to fully complete an in-
struction.
Although the mere reading of such in-
formation does not eliminate the haz-
ard, the understanding and application
of the information will promote the
correct use of the vehicle.
Your dealer is committed to your satis-
faction. He has taken training to per-
form the initial set-up and inspection
of your snowmobile as well as com-
pleted the final adjustment required
to suit your specific weight and riding
environment before you took posses-
sion. At delivery, your dealer would
have explained the snowmobile con-
trols and provided you with a brief
explanation of the various suspension
adjustments. We trust you have tak-
en full advantage of this!
______________________ 1

At delivery, you were also informed
of the warranty coverage and have
completed the Warranty Registration
process.
The information and components/
system descriptions contained in this
guide are correct at time of publi-
cation. BRP, however maintains a
policy of continuous improvement of
its products without imposing upon
itself any obligation to install them on
products previously manufactured.
Because of its ongoing commitment
to product quality and innovation, BRP
reserves the right at any time to dis-
continue or change specifications, de-
signs, features, models or equipment
without incurring obligation.
The illustrations in this document
show the typical construction of the
different assemblies and, in all cases,
may not reproduce the full detail or
exact shape of the parts shown, how-
ever, they represent parts which have
the same or a similar function.
It is understood that this guide may
be translated into another language.
In the event of any discrepancy, the
English version shall prevail.
Specifications are given in the SI met-
ric system with the SAE U.S. equiv-
alent in parentheses. Where precise
accuracy is not required, some conver-
sions are rounded off for easier use.
Most components of this snowmobile
are built with parts dimensioned in the
metric system. Most fasteners are
metric and must not be replaced by
customary fasteners or vice versa.
We recommend genuine BRP prod-
ucts for replacement parts and ac-
cessories. They've been specially
designed for your vehicle and manu-
factured to meet BRP's demanding
standards.
ASHOP MANUAL can be obtained for
complete service, maintenance and
more repair information.
For any questions pertaining to the
warranty and its application, consult
the WARRANTY section in this guide,
and/or an authorized SKI-DOO dealer.
2_______________________

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY INFORMATION
INTRODUCTION..................................................................... 8
IMPORTANT BASIC SAFETY MEASURES....................................... 9
LAWS AND REGULATIONS....................................................... 13
RIDING THE VEHICLE.............................................................. 14
TRACTION ENHANCING PRODUCTS........................................... 23
LOCATION OF THE IMPORTANT LABELS...................................... 27
ENVIRONMENT INFORMATION
GENERAL............................................................................ 34
JUST WHAT IS LIGHT TREADING? ............................................. 35
WHY IS LIGHT TREADING SMART.............................................. 36
VEHICLE INFORMATION
HOW TO IDENTIFY YOUR SNOWMOBILE..................................... 38
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS/EQUIPMENT .................................... 40
1) Speedometer................................................................. 44
2) Tachometer (RPM)........................................................... 44
3) Gauge Digital Display........................................................ 44
4) Gauge Multifunction Digital Display ....................................... 45
5) Gauge Pilot Lamps........................................................... 56
6) Gauge MODE (M) Button................................................... 58
7) Gauge SET (S) Button ....................................................... 58
8) Throttle Lever ................................................................ 58
9) Brake Lever................................................................... 58
10) Parking Brake Lever........................................................ 58
11) Multi-Switch Housing...................................................... 59
12) Handlebar ................................................................... 61
13) Holding Strap ............................................................... 61
14) Tether Cut-Out Switch ..................................................... 61
15) Engine Cut-Out Switch .................................................... 63
16) Rewind Starter Handle..................................................... 63
17) Choke Lever ................................................................ 63
18) Fuel Tank Cap............................................................... 64
19) Heated Carburetor Valve................................................... 64
20) Hood and Side Panels...................................................... 65
21) Fuses ........................................................................ 65
22) Grab Handle/Bumper....................................................... 67
23) Storage Compartment..................................................... 67
______________________ 3

24) Tool Kit....................................................................... 67
25) Spark Plug Storage......................................................... 67
26) Spare Drive Belt Holder.................................................... 68
27) Shields and Guards......................................................... 68
28) Track ......................................................................... 68
29) Seat Latch................................................................... 69
30) 1+1 Seat..................................................................... 71
31) Rear Passenger Heating Grip Switch..................................... 72
32) Rear Grab Handles ......................................................... 72
33) Electric Visor Jack Connector ............................................. 72
34) Adjustable Mirrors.......................................................... 72
35) Integrated Bag.............................................................. 72
36) Rear Rack ................................................................... 73
37) 12-Volt Power Outlet....................................................... 73
38) C-Type Hitch ................................................................ 73
RECOMMENDED FUEL AND OIL ................................................ 75
BREAK-IN PERIOD.................................................................. 77
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS..................................................... 78
Pre-Operation Check ........................................................... 78
SDI Engine Starting Procedure ................................................ 79
Carburetor Engine Starting Procedure........................................ 80
Vehicle Warm-Up ............................................................... 81
Shifting in Reverse.............................................................. 81
Shutting Off the Engine........................................................ 82
Post-Operation Care............................................................ 82
SPECIAL OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS......................................... 83
Riding at High Altitudes or Sea Level......................................... 83
Riding in Cold Weather......................................................... 83
Emergency Starting............................................................. 83
Towing an Accessory........................................................... 84
Towing Another Snowmobile.................................................. 84
Transporting the Vehicle........................................................ 85
SUSPENSION ADJUSTMENTS.................................................. 86
Rear Springs — Comfort....................................................... 87
Center Spring — Steering Behavior........................................... 88
Stopper Strap — Weight Transfer............................................. 89
Coupling Blocks — Handling................................................... 90
Rear Shock Motion Ratio — Damping Strength ............................. 90
Front Springs — Handling...................................................... 91
Front Suspension Shock Damping............................................ 92
Suspension Troubleshooting Chart............................................ 93
Deep Snow Riding.............................................................. 93
TROUBLESHOOTING.............................................................. 94
Beeper Codes ................................................................... 94
General........................................................................... 94
4_______________________

SPECIFICATIONS................................................................... 97
MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE CHART............................................ 108
ENGINE SYSTEM................................................................. 112
Air Intake Silencer Prefilter Verification..................................... 112
Cooling System ............................................................... 112
Exhaust System............................................................... 112
EPA Certified Engines........................................................ 112
DRIVE SYSTEM................................................................... 114
Belt Guard Removal and Installation........................................ 114
Brake Fluid Level.............................................................. 114
Brake Condition ............................................................... 115
Brake Adjustment............................................................. 115
Chaincase Oil.................................................................. 115
Drive Chain Tension .......................................................... 115
Drive Belt Inspection ......................................................... 116
Drive Belt Removal........................................................... 116
Drive Belt Installation/Adjustment .......................................... 117
Drive Pulley Adjustment ..................................................... 120
Track Condition................................................................ 121
Track Tension and Alignment................................................ 122
REAR SUSPENSION ............................................................. 125
STEERING AND FRONT SUSPENSION....................................... 126
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM........................................................... 127
Fuse Removal/Inspection.................................................... 127
BODY/FRAME..................................................................... 130
VehicleCleaning and Protection............................................. 130
Bulb Replacement ............................................................ 130
Headlamp Beam Aiming ..................................................... 131
STORAGE AND PRESEASON PREPARATION ............................... 132
WARRANTY
BRP LIMITED WARRANTY NORTH AMERICA: 2008 SKI-DOO®
SNOWMOBILES.................................................................. 134
BRP INTERNATIONAL LIMITED WARRANTY: 2008 SKI-DOO®
SNOWMOBILES.................................................................. 139
BRP EUROPEAN UNION MEMBER STATES LIMITED WARRANTY: 2008
SKI-DOO®SNOWMOBILES..................................................... 143
PRIVACY OBLIGATIONS/DISCLAIMER....................................... 147
CHANGE OF ADDRESS/OWNERSHIP ........................................ 148
______________________ 5

6_______________________

SAFETY
INFORMATION
____________ SAFETY INFORMATION ____________ 7

INTRODUCTION
Everyone is a beginner the first time
he sits behind the controls of a snow-
mobile regardless of previous expe-
rience in driving an automobile, a
motorcycle or a motorboat. The safe
use of your snowmobile is dependent
on many conditions such as visibility,
speed, weather, environment, traffic,
vehicle condition and the condition of
the driver.
Each operator has a responsibility to
ensure the safety of his/her passen-
ger, if any, and of other recreationists
or bystanders.
You are responsible for proper opera-
tion of your vehicle as well as training
thosewhomyouallowtorideordrive.
There may be noticeable handling and
performance differences from one
snowmobile to the other.
A snowmobile is relatively simple to
operate but like any other vehicle
or mechanical equipment, it can be
hazardous if you or a passenger are
reckless, thoughtless or inattentive.
We encourage you to have an Annual
Safety Inspection of your snowmo-
bile. Please contact an authorized
SKI-DOO dealer for further details.
Finally, we urge you to visit an autho-
rized SKI-DOO dealer periodically for
regular and safety maintenance, as
well as snowmobile accessories you
may require.
8____________ SAFETY INFORMATION ___________

IMPORTANT BASIC SAFETY MEASURES
Training
Basic training is required for the
safe operation of any snowmobile.
Study your Operator's Guide paying
particular attention to cautions and
warnings. Join your local snow-
mobile club: its social activities
and trail systems are planned for
both fun and safety. Obtain basic
instructions from your snowmobile
dealer, friend, fellow club member
or enroll in your state or provincial
safety training program.
Always show a new operator how
to start and stop the vehicle. In-
dicate the correct riding positions
and, above all else, only allow him
to operate the snowmobile in a re-
stricted flat area — at least until he
is completely familiar with its opera-
tion. If there is a local snowmobile
operator's training course existing,
have him enroll.
Performance
The performance of some snow-
mobiles may significantly exceed
that of other snowmobiles you have
operated. Therefore, use by novice
or inexperienced operators is not
recommended.
Snowmobiles are used in many ar-
eas and in many snow conditions.
Not all models perform the samein
similar conditions. Always consult
your snowmobile dealer when se-
lecting the snowmobile model for
your particular needs and uses.
Injury or death may result to the
snowmobile operator, passenger
or bystander if the snowmobile is
used in risky conditions which are
beyond the driver's, passenger's
or snowmobile's capabilities or in-
tended use.
Age
BRP recommends the operator has
at least 16 years old of age.
Speed
Speeding can be fatal. In many
cases, you cannot react or respond
quickly enough to the unexpected.
Always ride at a speed which is
suitable to the trail, weather condi-
tions and your own ability. Know
your local rules. Speed limit may
be in effect and meant to be ob-
served.
Riding
Always keep right hand side of the
trail.
Always keep a safe distance
from other snowmobiles and by-
standers.
Remember, promotional material
may show risky maneuvers per-
formed by professional riders under
ideal and/or controlled conditions.
You should never attempt any such
risky maneuvers if they are beyond
your level of riding ability.
Never ride after consuming drugs or
alcohol or if you feel tired or ill. Op-
erate your snowmobile prudently.
Your snowmobile is not designed to
be operated on public streets, roads
or highways.
Snowmobiling at night can be a de-
lightful experience but because of
reduced visibility, be extra cautious.
Avoid unfamiliar terrain and be sure
your lights are working. Always car-
ry a flashlight and spare light bulbs.
____________ SAFETY INFORMATION ___________ 9

Nature is wonderful but don't let it
distract your attention from driving.
If you want to truly appreciate win-
ter's scenery, stop your snowmo-
bile on the side of the trail so that
you don't become a hazard to oth-
ers.
Fences represent a very serious
threat for both you and your snow-
mobile. Give a wide berth to tele-
phone poles or posts.
Hidden wires unseen from a dis-
tance can cause serious accidents.
Always wear an approved safety
helmet, eye protection and a face
shield. This also applies to your
passenger.
Be aware of inherent risks associ-
ated with riding off trails, such as
avalanche and other natural or man
made hazards or obstacles.
Avoid road traveling. If you must
do so, and it is permitted, reduce
speed. The snowmobile is not de-
signed to operate or turn on paving.
When crossing a road, make a full
stop, then look carefully in both di-
rections before crossing at a 90° an-
gle. Be wary of parked vehicles.
Tailgating another snowmobile
should be avoided. If the snow-
mobile in front of you slows for any
reason, its driver and passenger
could be harmed through your ne-
glect. Maintain a safe stopping
distance between you and the
snowmobile in front of you. De-
pending on the terrain condition,
stopping may require a little more
space than you think. Play it safe.
Be prepared to use evasive driving.
Venturing out alone with your snow-
mobile could also be hazardous.
You could run out of fuel, have an
accident, or damage your snowmo-
bile. Remember, your snowmobile
is capable of traveling further in half
an hour than you may be able to
walk in a day. Use the “buddy sys-
tem”. Always ride with a friend or
member of your snowmobile club.
Even then, tell someone where you
are going and the approximate time
you plan to return.
Meadows sometimes have low ar-
eas where water accumulate and
freezes over in winter. This ice is
usually glare ice. Attempting to
turn or brake on this surface could
cause your vehicle to spin out of
control. Never brake or attempt
speeding or turning on glare ice. If
you do happen to travel over such
a condition, reduce speed by care-
fully releasing the throttle.
Never “jump” with your snowmo-
bile. This should be left to profes-
sional stunt men. Don't show off.
Be responsible.
While on safari, do not “gun” the
throttle. Snow and ice can be
thrown back into the path of a
following snowmobile. In addition,
when “gunning” the throttle, the
vehicle digs into and leaves an ir-
regular snow surface for others.
Safaris are both fun and enjoyable
but don't show off or overtake
others in the group. A less experi-
enced operator might try to do the
same as you and fail. When riding
with others, limit your abilities to
the experience of others.
10 ___________ SAFETY INFORMATION ___________

Operation
Always make a pre-start inspection
BEFORE you start the engine.
In an emergency, the snowmobile
engine can be stopped by pressing
down on the engine cut-out switch
or by pulling the tether cord cap
(DESS™ key).
Throttle mechanism should be
checked for free movement and
return to idle position before start-
ing engine.
Always engage parking brake when
vehicle is not in use.
Never run the engine in a non-
ventilated area and/or if vehicle is
left unattended.
Never operate the engine without
belt guard securely installed or, with
hood or side panels opened or re-
moved. Never run the engine with-
out drive belt installed. Running an
unloaded engine such as without
drive belt or with track raised, can
be dangerous.
Electric start models only: Never
charge or boost a battery while in-
stalled on snowmobile.
Ensure the path behind is clear of
obstacles or bystanders before pro-
ceeding in reverse.
Always remove the tether cord cap
(DESS key) when vehicle is not in
operation in order to prevent ac-
cidental engine starting, to avoid
unauthorized use by children or oth-
ers or theft.
Raising the rear of your snowmobile
while the engine is running could
cause snow, ice or debris to be
thrown back at an observer. Nev-
er raise the rear of the vehicle while
the engine is running. To clear or in-
spect the track, stop the engine, tilt
the vehicle on its side and remove
blockage with a piece of wood or
branch. Never allow anyone near a
rotating snowmobile track.
Maintenance
Know your snowmobile and treat
it with the respect and care due of
any power driven machine. Com-
mon sense, proper handling and
routine maintenance will result in
safer and enjoyable use.
Only perform procedures as de-
tailed in this guide. Unless other-
wise specified, engine should be
turned OFF and cold for all lubrica-
tion, adjustment and maintenance
procedures.
Never have the engine running
while the hood or side panels are
opened. Even at idle, a snowmo-
bile engine is turning around 1800
revolutions per minute. Always
turn off the engine before opening
the hood and/or side panels for any
reason.
Never remove any original equip-
ment from your snowmobile. Each
vehicle has many built in safety fea-
tures. Such features include vari-
ous guards and consoles, plus re-
flective materials and warning la-
bels.
A poorly maintained snowmobile
itself can be a potential hazard. Ex-
cessively worn components could
render the vehicle completely in-
operative. Keep the snowmobile
in good working condition at all
times. Follow your pre-operation
check, weekly, monthly and an-
nually routine maintenance and
lubrication procedures as detailed
in this guide. Consult a snowmo-
bile dealer or acquire a shop manual
and proper tools and equipment if
other repairs or service is required.
____________ SAFETY INFORMATION ___________ 11

Do not stud the track unless it has
been approved for studs. At speed,
a studded track that has not been
approved for studs could tear and
separate from vehicle posing a risk
of severe injury or death. See an
authorized SKI-DOO dealer for cur-
rent specific studding availability
and applications.
You may stud the track on this ve-
hicle model. However, you MUST
only use the BRP approved type
stud for use on Ski-Doo snowmo-
biles. DO NOT EVER use con-
ventional studs because the track
thickness is thinner then our stan-
dard tracks. The stud could tear off
of track and separate from vehicle
posing a potential risk of severe
injury or death.
Fuel
Always stop the engine before
refueling. Fuel is flammable and
explosive under certain conditions.
Always work in a well-ventilated
area. Do not smoke or allow open
flames or sparks in the vicinity.
Open cap slowly. If a differen-
tial pressure condition is noticed
(whistling sound heard when loos-
ening fuel tank cap) have vehicle
inspected and/or repaired before
further operation. Do not overfill
or top off the fuel tank before plac-
ing the vehicle in a warm area.
As temperature increases, fuel ex-
pands and might overflow. Always
wipe off any fuel spillage from the
vehicle. Periodically verify fuel sys-
tem.
Basics for Passenger
Never ride as a passenger unless
the snowmobile is equipped with a
passenger seat, and sit only on the
designated passenger seat.
Always wear a DOT approved hel-
met and follow the same dressing
guidelines as those recommended
for the operator and described in
this guide.
Make sure that you are able to
achieve a stable stance, both feet
resting positively on the footboards
of footrests with good grip, and
that you are able to hold on firmly
to the handholds.
Once underway, if you feel uncom-
fortable or insecure for any reason,
don't wait, tell the driver to slow
down or stop.
12 ___________ SAFETY INFORMATION ___________

LAWS AND REGULATIONS
Know your local laws.
Federal, state, provincial and local gov-
ernment agencies have enacted laws
and regulations pertaining to the safe
use and operation of snowmobiles. It
is your responsibility as a snowmobiler
to learn and obey these laws and reg-
ulations. Respect and observance will
result in safer snowmobiling for all.
Be aware of the liability property dam-
ages and insurance laws regarding
your equipment.
____________ SAFETY INFORMATION ___________ 13

RIDING THE VEHICLE
Before venturing on the trails, operate
the snowmobile in a restricted flat area
until you are completely familiar with
its operation and feel comfortable that
you can safely tackle a more demand-
ing task. Have an enjoyable and safe
ride.
Principle of Operation
Propulsion
Depressing throttle lever increases
engine RPM causing the drive pulley
to engage. Depending on models, en-
gine RPM must be between 2500 and
4200 before drive pulley engagement
will occur.
Outer sheave of drive pulley moves
toward inner sheave, forcing the drive
belt to move upward on the drive
pulley and simultaneously forcing the
sheaves apart on the driven pulley.
The driven pulley senses the load on
the track and limits the belt move-
ment. The result is an optimized
speed ratio between engine RPM and
the speed of the vehicle at any time.
WARNING
Never operate engine without belt
guard securely installed or, with
hood or side panels opened or re-
moved.
Power is transferred to the track
through the chaincase and drive axle.
WARNING
Always use a wide-base snowmo-
bile mechanical stand to properly
support vehicle duringanytrack
verification. Slowly accelerate
engine in order to rotate track at
very low speed when it is not on
ground.
Turning
Handlebar allows the steering of the
vehicle. As the handlebar is rotated to
right or left, the skis are turned right or
left to steer the snowmobile.
Stopping
Before riding your snowmobile, you
should understand how to stop it.
This is done by releasing the throttle
and gradually depressing the brake
lever on the left side of the handlebar.
In an emergency, you may stop your
vehicle by pressing the engine cut-out
switch located near the throttle control
and applying the brake. Remember, a
snowmobile cannot “stop on a dime”.
Braking characteristics vary with deep
snow, packed snow or ice. If the track
is locked during hard braking, skidding
may result.
How to Ride
How to Dress
Proper snowmobile clothing should
be worn. It should be comfortable
and not too tight. Always check the
weather forecast before going on a
ride. Dress for the coldest weather
expected. Thermal underwear next
to the skin also provides a good insu-
lation.
DOT approved helmets are recom-
mended at all times. They provide
both warmth and reduce injury. A
stocking type cap, balaclava and face
mask should always be carried or
worn. Goggles or a face shield that
attach to the helmet are indispens-
able.
Hands should be protectedbyapair
of snowmobile gloves or mitts which
have sufficient insulation and allow
use of thumbs and fingers for opera-
tion of controls.
14 ___________ SAFETY INFORMATION ___________

Rubber bottom boots with either a ny-
lon or a leather top, with removable
felt liners are best suited for snowmo-
biling.
You should keep yourself as dry as
possible when snowmobiling. When
you come indoors, take your snowmo-
bile suit and boots off and make cer-
tain they dry properly.
Do not wear long scarfs and loose ap-
parels that could get caught in moving
parts.
What to Bring
Every snowmobiler should carry at
least the following basic parts and
tools that can help him and others in
an emergency:
– this Operator's Guide
– spare spark plugs and wrench
– friction tape
– spare drive belt
– spare starter rope
– spare light bulbs
– tool kit (including at least pliers,
screwdriver, adjustable wrench)
–knife
– flashlight.
Include other items depending on the
length and time of your ride.
Riding Position
Your riding position and balance are
the two basic principles of making
your snowmobile go where you want
it to. When turning on the side of a
hill, you and your passenger must be
ready to shift body weight to help it
turn in the desired direction. Driver
and passenger(s) must never attempt
this maneuvering by placing feet out-
side of the vehicle. Experience will
teach you how much lean to put in-
to turns at different speeds and how
much you will have to lean into a slope
to maintain proper balance.
Generally, the riding position for best
balance and control is sitting. Howev-
er, the posting, kneeling or standing
positions are also used under certain
conditions.
The novice driver should become fa-
miliar with the snowmobile through
practice on a level area at slow speeds
before venturing afield.
WARNING
Do not attempt any maneuvers if
they are beyond your abilities.
Sitting
Feet on the running boards, body mid-
way back on seat is an ideal position
when operating the snowmobile over
familiar, smooth terrain. Knees and
hips should remain flexible to absorb
shocks.
mmo2008-003-001
____________ SAFETY INFORMATION ___________ 15

Posting
A semi-sitting position with the body
off the seat and the feet under the
body in a sort of squatting posture,
thus allowing the legs to absorb the
shocks when traveling over uneven
terrain. Avoid abrupt stops.
mmo2008-003-002
Kneeling
This position is achieved by placing
one foot firmly on the running board
and the opposite knee on the seat.
Avoid abrupt stops.
mmo2008-003-003
Standing
Place both feet on the running boards.
Knees should be flexed to absorb the
shock from surface bumps. This is
an effective position to see better and
to shift weight as conditions dictate.
Avoid abrupt stop.
mmo2008-003-004
Carrying a Passenger
Certain snowmobiles are designed for
an operator only, others can allow one
passenger only, and others can allow
up to two passengers. Refer to the
indications on the vehicles to know if
any particular snowmobile can accom-
modate passengers or not, and if so,
how many. Always respect those indi-
cations. Overloading is dangerous be-
cause snowmobiles are not designed
for it.
Even when passengers are allowed,
you must make sure that the persons
who would like to become passengers
are physically fit for snowmobiling.
WARNING
Any passenger must be able to
firmly lay his feet on the footrests
and keep his hands on the grab
handles or seat strap at all times
when seated. Respecting those
physical criteria is important to
ensure that the passenger is stable
and to reduce the risks of ejection.
16 ___________ SAFETY INFORMATION ___________

On snowmobiles allowing two pas-
sengers, if you have an adult and a
child for passenger, BRP recommends
that the child sits in the center loca-
tion. This allows an adult sitting in the
rear seat to keep a visual contact with
the child and hold him if necessary.
In addition, the child is best protected
against the wind and cold temperature
if seated in the center location.
Each operator has a responsibility to
ensure the safety of his passengers
and should inform them of snowmo-
biling basics.
WARNING
– Passengers must only sit on
designated passenger seats.
Never allow anyone to sit be-
tween the handlebar and the
operator.
– Each passenger seat must have
a strap or grab handles and
meet SSCC standards.
– Passengers and operators must
always wear DOT approved hel-
mets and warm clothing appro-
priate for snowmobiling. Make
sure that no skin is exposed.
– Once underway, if a passenger
feels uncomfortable or insecure
for any reason, he must not
wait, and tell the driver to slow-
down or stop.
Riding with passengers on board is
different than riding alone. The oper-
ator has the benefit of knowing what
will be the next maneuver and is able
to prepare himself accordingly. The
operator also benefits from the sup-
port of his grip on the handlebar. In
contrast, the passengers have to re-
ly on the operator’s careful and safe
operation of the vehicle. In addition,
“body english” is limited with passen-
gers, and the operator can sometimes
see more of the trail ahead than the
passengers. Therefore, smooth start-
ing and stopping are required with
passengers, and the operator must
slow down. The operator must also
warn passengers of side hills, bumps,
branches, etc. An unforeseen bump
can leave you passenger-less. Re-
mind your passengers to lean into
the turn with you, without causing
the vehicle to topple. Be extremely
careful, go more slowly and check the
passengers frequently.
WARNING
When riding with a passenger:
– Braking ability and steering
control are reduced. Decrease
speed and allow extra space to
maneuver.
– Adjust suspension according to
weight.
For complete information on how
to adjust the suspension, please re-
fer to the section of this Operator’s
Guide entitled SUSPENSION ADJUST-
MENTS.
Use extra caution and go even more
slowly with young passengers. Check
frequently to make certain the child
has a firm grip and is properly posi-
tioned with his feet on the running
boards.
____________ SAFETY INFORMATION ___________ 17

Terrain/Riding Variations
Groomed Trail
On a maintained trail, sitting is the
most preferred riding position. Do not
race and, above all, keep to the right
hand side of the trail. Be prepared
for the unexpected. Observe all trail
signs. Do not zigzag from one side of
the trail to the other.
Ungroomed Trail
Unless there has been a fresh snow-
fall you can expect “washboard” and
snowdrift conditions. Taken at exces-
sive speeds, such conditions can be
physically harmful. Slow down. Hold
on the handlebar and assume a post-
ing position. Feet should be under the
body assuming a crouched position to
absorb any jarring effect. On longer
stretches of “washboard” trails, the
kneeling position of one knee on the
seat can be adopted. This provides
a certain amount of comfort, while at
the same time keeps the body loose
and capable of vehicle control. Be-
ware of hidden rocks or tree stumps
partially hidden by a recent snowfall.
Deep Snow
In deep “powder” snow, your vehicle
could begin to “bog” down. If this oc-
curs, turn in as wide an arc as possi-
ble and look for a firmer base. If you
do get “bogged”, and it happens to
everyone, do not spin your track as
this makes the vehicle sink deeper. In-
stead, turn the engine off, get off and
move the back of the vehicle onto new
snow. Then tramp a clear path ahead
of the vehicle. A few feet will gener-
ally suffice. Restart the engine. As-
sume the standing position and rock
the vehicle gently as you steadily and
slowly apply the throttle. Depending
on whether the front or rear end of
the vehicle is sinking, your feet should
be placed on the opposing end of the
running boards. Never place foreign
material beneath the track for support.
Do not allow anyone to stand in front
of, or to the rear of, the snowmobile
with the engine running. Stay away
from the track. Personal injury will re-
sult if contact is made with the revolv-
ing track.
18 ___________ SAFETY INFORMATION ___________