Polaris Widetrak LX (Polaris Widetrak LX): technical characteristics of the snowmobile

The Polaris WideTrack LX 500 is a utility snowmobile with a powerful engine and wide track. The model is suitable for those who need a “workhorse” with high reliability.

Under the Polaris brand, a popular American manufacturer of motorcycles and special equipment designed for lovers of active recreation and sports offers its products. The company's specialists have invested extensive experience and advanced achievements in the WideTrack LX line, creating a modern product. The special design of the chassis made it possible to move through deep snow. All models in the WideTrack LX series are suitable for heavy-duty work. Snowmobiles can be used for touring or driving a trailer with a large load.

The WideTrack LX 500 is a reliable and simple model that is one of Polaris' most popular products. The snowmobile differs from touring and sports modifications in its driver's position. The Polaris WideTrack LX 500 cannot be classified as a high-speed model, but the traction of the equipment is impressive. The device is suitable for heavy everyday work and can easily pull a car out of a ditch or carry almost half a ton of cargo on a sled.

TOP 3 mountain snowmobiles Polaris (Polaris)

The Polaris tracked snowmobile is a vehicle for outdoor enthusiasts. The company has been specializing in the production of machines of this type since 1954, offering customers models for various purposes. The use of independent suspensions and powerful engines ensure smooth movement and dynamic acceleration on snowy plains, and also allow movement in deep snow in mountain conditions.

Specifications

Polaris Widetrak LX snowmobiles are equipped with a frame chassis assembled from steel pipes. The equipment has 2-cylinder gasoline engines with a 2-stroke gas distribution system. The most popular models have carburetor engines, which are gradually being replaced by units with electronic injection systems that ensure fuel economy. Some of the equipment is equipped with a 2-seater seat designed to carry a driver and a passenger.

The suspension is equipped with a system for adjusting stiffness depending on the weight of the load, and no special equipment is required for adjustment.

The caterpillar belt differs in width and length, ensuring motion stability and acceleration regardless of the condition of the snow cover and the weight of the load. The body is made of plastic and composite panels with increased strength. The snowmobile is turned by a motorcycle-type steering wheel; the front suspension of an independent design provides improved handling and stability when driving.

Description of technical characteristics of the Polaris 850 model:

• length - 3414 mm;
• width - 1105 mm;
• height - 1247 mm;
• weight - 204 kg;
• working volume - 840 cm³;
• travel of the front and rear suspensions is 229 and 406 mm.

User manual

Each snowmobile comes with an instruction manual. The Polaris manual contains detailed information about the maintenance of the main elements and components of the track, safe driving rules, as well as instructions for running-in and further operation. At the end of the instructions there is a maintenance log and warranty service information.

Main controls

All main controls for this truck are located on the steering wheel and control panel.

The numbers in the figure indicate the following elements:

1. tank cap;
2. egnition lock;
3. brake lever;
4. speedometer;
5. reverse indicator light;
6. special grip;
7. emergency engine stop button;
8. gas lever;
9. manual starter;
10. enrichment button.

Adjustments

This manual also contains step-by-step recommendations for adjusting the following elements:

• seats;
• steering wheel;
• front and rear suspension;
• track tension;
• torsion springs.

All instructions are supplemented with clear illustrations. In the maintenance section, the manufacturer has placed a maintenance manual that should be carried out by the owner of the snowmobile, and also additionally indicated operations for which you should contact a service center.

Pre-trip checks

Before each trip on an all-terrain vehicle, a number of mandatory procedures must be performed. You need to check:

• drive belt condition;
• steering wheel;
• ignition, manual starter;
• braking system (including parking and emergency to stop the engine);
• fastenings (suspension, hood);
• track tension and alignment;
• lighting equipment operation;
• ski skates;
• throttle lever;
• condition of replacement track guides.

It is also necessary to check the engine oil level in the gearbox and engine. In the manual, in the corresponding section, there is a table with a list of basic operations. Next to each item there are page numbers in which you can see the sequence of work, as well as the location of the corresponding structural elements.

Modifications

The company's production program includes modifications of snowmobiles:

• mountain type (Polaris 800 and 850);
• sports models (600 and variations of the 800 model);
• crossovers (built on the chassis of models 850, 800, 600 and 550);
• tourist version based on Polaris 550;
• utilitarian version (based on 800, 600 and 550).

For children, the 120 Indy model is available, equipped with a 1-cylinder engine with a displacement of 121 cm³. The car is designed for driver only and has a dry weight of 66 kg.

Polaris 500

The Polaris 500 modification is a utilitarian type snowmobile with a single track 500 mm wide. The power unit is a 2-cylinder 85-horsepower liquid-cooled gasoline engine. The cylinder displacement is 488 cm³, and custom Mikuni carburetors are used to improve starting characteristics. The transmission of torque to the caterpillar belt is carried out by a variator equipped with a low gear and reverse.

To store the fuel supply, a tank with a capacity of 44.7 liters is used, the oil supply is in a separate container designed for 3.8 liters of liquid. Gasoline and oil are supplied to the engine separately; a reed valve is used for dosed injection of lubricant. There is no electric starter on the vehicle; a manual cable mechanism is used to start the engine.

An independent suspension is installed at the front; the distance between the ski axles is 965 mm. A Fox shock absorber is installed at the rear, providing suspension travel of up to 353 mm. To stop the Polaris snowmobile, hydraulically driven disc brakes are used.

Polaris 550

The Polaris 550 LX touring model uses a 2-stroke, 2-cylinder air-cooled power unit. The motor develops a power of 60 hp. With. with a working volume of 544 cm³. To increase engine life, the piston group is coated with Nikasil coating. Separate carburetors are used to prepare the fuel mixture, and the exhaust system is routed into a single manifold. The use of a variator ensures smooth acceleration of the Polaris Widetrack snowmobile up to a speed of 70 km/h.

The driving track is mounted on an articulated support with a shock absorber allowing a stroke of 381 mm. On the outer surface of the track links there are hooks that improve traction with the surface. The front steered skis are mounted on an independent Pro-Ride RMK suspension with additional shock absorbers. The stroke of the elements is 228 mm. Hydraulic brakes are used to stop.

Dimensions and characteristics of the Widetrak LX 550 snowmobile:

• length - 3359 mm;
• width - 1219 mm;
• height (with windshield) - 1422 mm;
• front ski track - 990 mm;
• fuel tank capacity - 43.5 l;
• curb weight - 238 kg.

The standard equipment includes an electric engine start system, reverse gear is activated by an electromagnet. The snowmobile is designed to carry 2 people; a windshield with additional deflectors is installed at the front.

Polaris 600

The sports utility model Polaris 600 is equipped with a 2-cylinder Liberty 600 power unit, which develops a power of 125 hp. With. To reduce fuel consumption and improve dynamic characteristics, an electronically controlled distributed fuel injection system is installed. Torque transmission is carried out by gear pairs and a variator; there is a reverse. The engine is started by an electric starter; other methods are not available.

Design and equipment

The Polaris WideTrak LX 500 is a classic wide-track all-terrain vehicle. The device does not lose maneuverability regardless of where it is moving and obediently carries out the driver’s commands. The driving style is reminiscent of an all-wheel drive car. Even in deep snow, the equipment seems to float rather than ride. The new braking system ensures quick stops, and the fuel tank allows you to make long trips without additional refueling stops.

A powerful unit, heated steering wheel grips, a DC power source and a reinforced rear suspension make the ride as comfortable as possible. The driver's seat has an adjustable backrest. There is a large luggage compartment under the seat. The sloping rear tunnel and wide skis improve the vehicle's maneuverability, allowing it to travel in areas inaccessible to other snowmobiles.

Externally, the Polaris WideTrak LX 500 looks very modern. The body is painted white or blue. The basic package includes:

• electric starter;
• accelerator lever and grip heaters;
• rear trunk;
• towing device;
• 12V socket;
• analog speedometer;
• 2-seater seat with luggage rack;
• towbar;
• oil level indicator;
• high transparent windshield;
• temperature sensor;
• fuel sensor.

Advantages

The Widetrak 550 LX is one of the best unitary snowmobiles in the world. The model, which has earned the recognition of millions of people, has a number of advantages:

• High load capacity. The device can easily withstand even double load.
• Reasonable cost. If you compare the model with foreign analogues, the difference in price is practically not felt.
• Stylish and modern design.
• Confident engine starting even in severe frost.
• Simple design for easy machine repair.
• Wide caterpillar that confidently holds the vehicle on snow and ice.

Owners of the Widetrak 550 LX are especially pleased with its versatility. With such a machine you can go fishing and tow the load.

Engine

Polaris WideTrak LX 500 is equipped with a two-stroke gasoline engine EC50PL Fuji Heavy 488cc with a liquid cooling system that provides protection against overheating during long-term operation at high speeds. The engine is equipped with a system with 2 carburetors that improve the starting process.

The fuel tank capacity is 41.6 liters. Average gasoline consumption at a speed of 60 km/h is 29 l/100 km, at a speed of 90 km/h – 40 l/100 km. Recommended fuel type is AI-92 gasoline. Oil consumption is approximately 2.5 liters per 2 fuel tanks.

Adjusting carburetors Polaris Widetruck LH500

We use a 1.5 mm drill bit as a “calibration tool” to adjust the Widetrak 500 LX carburetor, because this is the diameter that best matches the throttle position at idle. Using the throttle valve position screw, we achieve a tight passage of the drill between the window wall and the throttle valve skirt on the cylinder side.

1. We make a notch (notch) with a file or needle file on the idle speed adjustment screw - this is the largest screw with a spring.
2. We noted the position, then unscrew the screw 90 degrees. (a quarter turn) counterclockwise - this will correspond to the maximum idle speed.
3. We repeat the operation on the second carburetor, then place the carburetors side by side.
4. We press the throttle trigger approximately halfway and see if the dampers are open synchronously.
5. We fully squeeze the gas trigger, both dampers should open completely. On the cylinder side, the valve skirt will protrude approximately 4 mm.
6. If there is no synchronicity, then we adjust the tension of the cables.
7. We adjust the position of the main fuel jet needle - this is the needle that is installed on the throttle valve. The needle should be on the second notch from above (the pointed end of the needle is located towards the bottom).
8. If you need more “undermining” when opening the throttle, then install the needle stopper in the third groove (this is the middle).
9. Turn the mixture quality screw (yellow and small screw) completely. Attention! There is no need to be overzealous with effort; we twist with flair.
10. Turn the mixture quality screw half a turn (180°).
11. Pull back the rubber seal of the starting enrichment cable casing and slightly pull out the starting enrichment cable casing; the free gap should be approximately 1mm.
12. We check the gap by slightly turning the starting enrichment flag, see how the casing has tightened and by how much. Attention! This adjustment must be made without unscrewing the enrichment needle, that is, assembled on the carburetor.
13. We assemble the carburetor, start it, warm it up.
14. If there is a need, we carry out additional adjustment of the idle speed (the largest screw with a spring), noting how many degrees the screw was turned and, accordingly, we do the same on the second carburetor simultaneously.

Characteristics of the Polaris Widetrack snowmobile and its features

"Polaris Widetrak LX" is rightfully considered the most popular among the utilitarian snowmobiles in the series. This popularity is due to the particularly reliable design and high build quality. In addition, it is worth noting the reliable engine start, which operates stably even at critically low temperatures. The two-stroke unit provides the necessary traction, which is so important in harsh winter conditions. Also, the productive element of the Polaris snowmobile is difficult to overload at high speeds, because the necessary cooling is carried out by a liquid system. A significant advantage is considered to be the ease of operation and repair of the engine, as well as other components in general.

Price

The cost of the new Polaris WideTrak LX 500 snowmobile starts from 550,000 rubles . You can save money and buy a winter bike with mileage for 510,000 rubles in good condition and for 299,000 ... 340,000 in a condition that requires replacement parts (for example, on Avito).

Where to buy: addresses of official dealers in Moscow

Spare parts for Polaris Widetrak LX 500

Snowmobile "Polaris Widetrack"

Many years of experience have allowed us to develop and launch the progressive snowmobile “Polaris Widetrak LX”. The snowmobile is distinguished by its simplicity of design, high technology and affordable price. This unit is suitable not only for everyday trips, but also for practical purposes. That is, you can safely attach a sled to a snowmobile and transport various cargo. In its class, Widetrak is ahead of its closest competitors, Yamaha Viking and Artic Cat, in terms of power unit power.

The production of the model began back in 1996. From the beginning of production until now, no special technical improvements have been made to the snowmobile. Thus, the appearance and design of the snowmobile can be safely considered outdated. But everyone knows perfectly well that appearance is not the main thing with such equipment. Attention should be paid to the technical aspect. Under the hood is a Fuji two-stroke engine with a power of 85 hp. There are two cylinders installed, each with its own carburetor. For ease of operation, a separate lubrication system is used so as not to mix gasoline and oil before refueling the snowmobile.

AI-95 gasoline is considered to be the standard fuel for Whitetruck. Cooling occurs due to the liquid system. The radiator is located at the bottom. This placement has its pros and cons. When the snowmobile is immersed in snow, the radiator is cooled accordingly. But, when driving on ice for a long time, the engine heats up. The braking on the snowmobile is hydraulic, a disc is installed. A variator is used as a transmission. In case of replacing the variator of a Polaris snowmobile, it will be enough to open the cover and make the replacement.

A few words about the suspension. The front of the snowmobile has a linkage suspension that handles very well. The quality of control is very important, because at a maximum speed of more than 100 km/h, this factor is one of the key ones. The shock-absorbing system at the rear of the snowmobile is a torsion bar suspension. In general, this model cannot be called “soft”. Which in turn is not surprising, because the snowmobile is not a tourist one, but a utilitarian one.

The engine is started using an electric starter, and manual start is also possible. The control body contains the throttle handle and the brake. The high/low beam switches and direction indicators are also located there. On the central dashboard there is a speedometer, daily space bar, oil level and parking brake sensor. In addition, the instrument panel consists of a temperature sensor and reverse gear. The gear shift lever has the following designation:

• H-overdrive;
• N-neutral;
• R-reverse gear;
• L-low gear.

Float type fuel sensor. To make it easier to control the snowmobile, a mountain strap is installed on the handlebars. With its help, control over the snowmobile and maneuvering increases significantly. The seat is very soft and comfortable, it allows the snowmobiler to sit comfortably on it during the entire journey. The rear backrest for the passenger has an adjustment function. When moving forward, it perfectly supports the driver's back. When you recline the seat, you have access to the luggage compartment, where you can put the necessary tools. For mounting a trunk, there is a luggage area at the back. On the same site there is a special coupling device that allows the transportation of various trailers and sleds.

Polaris Widetrak LX reviews

• “Very reliable snowmobile. I have been using this model for more than 5 years. I mainly use it for winter fishing trips. Since the fishing spot is more than 15 km away, the cooling system plays an important role for me. Fortunately, Polaris has liquid cooling. When moving through steppe terrain, where there is a lot of snow, the equipment does not heat up at all. I don’t even think about letting the snowmobile cool down for a couple of minutes. A fairly roomy seat allows you to take your son with you fishing, who is simply delighted with the Widetrak LX. Even he, a 10 year old boy, is able to operate this unit without any problems. The engine is powerful, the traction is simply excellent. I tried to attach the sled, it was easy! The frame is durable and can withstand accidental bumps on rocks or steep hills.”
• “I would like to note the good maneuverability, as well as good maneuverability. The snowmobile, to be honest, is not small, but you can move through a dense forest. A decent speed limit can be traced, 105-110 km/h is accurate. Cruising speed is somewhere around 70-85 km/h. The rear case is great for storing essentials on the go. I'm pleased with the good dashboard, the cost of a snowmobile is low. I recommend!".

Owner reviews

• Evgenii: Purchased a Polaris WideTrack LX 500 in 2011. I started using the snowmobile immediately. The car goes great in the snow. The regime is as follows: 2 times a month I go hunting in fields and forests (total travel distance is about 100 km). Previously there was a Yamaha Wiking 540. In comparison, Polaris looks much better. Liquid cooling allows you not to worry about the engine, and the engine itself starts even at -35 degrees. Heated grips keep you from getting cold at high speeds. The Polaris WideTrack LX 500 has enough power, and the consumption is also quite tolerable. Soon it will be 7 years of operation, I’m happy with everything.
• Makar, Engels: Used a Polaris WideTrack LX 500 snowmobile for 3 years. The impressions are twofold. A very good and powerful device, but it has many shortcomings. In cold weather it starts very confidently, pulling 300-400 kg of cargo easily. It is comfortable to ride a snowmobile with a passenger. In terms of design and assembly, everything is getting worse. After 2 years of operation, the pistons had to be changed, which resulted in a significant amount of money. The LX 500's suspension is very weak (shock absorbers often break, bolts sometimes fall apart). I also didn’t like the factory mounts, but the motor is excellent. I probably wouldn’t buy this snowmobile a second time.
• User1111: Over 2 years of operation, the Polaris WideTrack LX 500 has covered almost 5,000 km. There were practically no breakdowns during this time. Problems were observed only with the suspension, where I changed the front spring of the rear and front suspension, the mounting bolt of the front trailing arm (cut off) and the enrichment lever with a knee. I found spare parts quite quickly and for little money. The trips were carried out with a load of 150-400 kg in various terrain at temperatures down to -39 degrees. Average fuel consumption was 10-17 l/100 km. For hunting trips, the snowmobile justified itself, it carried me well with a load and never let me down, I’m glad I bought it.
• Svetoch_1980: I have owned a Polaris WideTrack LX 500 for two years. During this time I drove 5300 km and so far I am very pleased. I bought a snowmobile specifically for towing sleds with a large load. Immediately after the break-in, I began to actively use the equipment. With a load of 300 kg and fuel, the snowmobile easily moves at a speed of 40 km/h. For 300 km of travel (the entire route) it consumed about 75 liters of fuel. The suspension is normal (lost 1 bolt in 2 years), the engine is excellent (pulls great and always starts), the handling is good. Sometimes it was necessary to carry up to 550 kg of cargo, and the device could cope. There’s nothing even to compare with the LX 500 air vents; they can’t handle such loads.

Snowmobile Polaris WIDETRAK LX500

Polaris WIDETRAK LX500 is a popular American snowmobile with high off-road capability. The machine is suitable for those who prefer to own a high-quality and reliable product that is adapted to harsh climatic conditions. The model in question is intended for active recreation, sports competitions, as well as increasing dryness and getting a good mood on weekends. The Polaris WIDETRAK LX500 was designed with the mass user in mind, and no professional skills are required to operate this machine. This device belongs to the WideTrack LX line of the same name, which combines the extensive experience of American specialists and advanced technical solutions. As a result, Polaris has created a high-quality product that is balanced in all respects and will satisfy the needs of the most demanding users. On this snowmobile you can easily make long tourist trips, and even transport cargo accessories.

The model in question is a relatively simple snowmobile, and therefore is among the most popular Polaris products. It should be noted that the LX500 model is significantly different from the specialized Polaris snowmobiles with a tourist and sports focus. What we have here is rather a universal model for the mass user. This machine is not fast, but the traction characteristics of the snowmobile are still impressive. The LX500 is suitable for everyday work trips. The equipment will also come in handy in emergency situations - for example, if you need to pull a stuck car out of a ditch. As an option, with the help of Polaris WideTrack LX500 you can transport cargo weighing up to 1500 kg on a sled.

Repair and tuning

American Polaris snowmobiles are reliable equipment, but like any machines, they are not immune to breakdowns. However, it is easy to solve an unpleasant situation; you can find all the necessary spare parts in online stores or at specialized outlets. Thanks to its simple design, there will be no problems replacing damaged parts.

Polaris snowmobiles do just fine without tuning. The company has been producing equipment since the 60s, so it takes into account all the nuances. The owner may only need additional equipment, such as a sled, cover or replacement skis.

Specifications

1. Dimensions, mm: Length – 3250, Width – 1105, Height – 1295
2. The distance between the central axles of the skis is 965 mm
3. Track dimensions, mm: Length – 3453, Width – 500, Height – 31.7.
4. Front suspension - IFS
5. Front shock absorbers – Nitrex
6. Front suspension travel – 184 mm
7. Rear Suspension – WideTrak with articulated extension
8. Rear shock absorbers – Nitrex
9. Rear suspension travel – 230 mm
10. Skis – Pro-Float
11. Brakes – disc with hydraulic drive
12. Gearbox – with reduction gear and reverse
13. The name of the CVT is P-85/Polaris Button with reverse gear.

Advantages

1. Powerful and high-speed engine
2. Low fuel consumption for a 2-stroke engine
3. Clear handling, fast cornering and avoiding obstacles
4. Fast acceleration, good traction characteristics
5. Good geometric cross-country ability
6. Stylish design and ergonomic controls

Flaws:

1. The engine is demanding on fuel quality
2. High cost of components produced abroad
3. Noise, vibration at idle
4. Strong jerks when starting from a standstill.

Transmission

The device is equipped with an automatic transmission with a V-belt variator with reverse and reduction gear. Thanks to the latter, Polaris LX can tow heavy loads not only in a sled, but also by “drag”. Why, there were cases when this snowmobile even pulled stuck cars out of a snowdrift!

The wide Gripper skis are mounted on a modern IFS lever suspension, which has a very modest travel of 184 mm. But, as practice has shown, Polaris IFS is reliable and unpretentious, which is especially important in “wild” and hard-to-reach areas where there are problems with spare parts and qualified services. The rear adjustable suspension features two Nitrex shock absorbers with 229 mm of travel.

Engine

The Polarus WideTrack LX500 snowmobile has a two-stroke gasoline engine. The EC50PL Fudi Heavy 488CC motor has a liquid cooling system that prevents overheating, which is very important during prolonged load at high speeds. The engine can be used in the northern regions of Russia due to the fact that it is well adapted to low temperatures. The power plant has two carburetors designed to improve the starting process in cold weather. In addition, the power plant is equipped with a protection system that is activated when the internal combustion engine temperature reaches more than 75 degrees, but this happens very rarely. For example, practice has shown that this engine works quite well even at 90 degrees Celsius - largely thanks to that same carburetor system.

With a working volume of only 0.5 liters, the two-cylinder petrol unit develops 85 horsepower and consumes an average of 30 liters during moderate driving. The role of the starting system is performed by a single pipe, and the ignition system is CDI technology. Type of mixture formation – two-carburetor VM34. To ensure optimal range, the power unit is equipped with a fuel tank with a volume of 41.6 liters, and average fuel consumption at 60 km/h is about 30 liters per 100 km. When reaching a maximum speed of 90 km/h, this figure increases to 40 liters per 100 km. The manufacturer recommends using gasoline with an octane rating of at least 92. As for other consumables, Polaris has made the car economical in terms of oil consumption. Its consumption is 1:40.

The average cost of Polaris WideTrack LX500 is 550 thousand rubles.