Polaris 2000 Universal Snowmobile - Manual (Page 69)

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MAINTENANCE
Engine Cooling - Liquid Cooled Models
The cooling system on the liquid cooled Indy consists of the following major com-
ponents: recovery tank, water pump, cylinders, heads, inlet and outlet manifolds,
pressure cap and heat exchangers. The heat exchangers are located beneath the
running boards and front close-off panel in front of the drive shaft and/or under the
seat. Coolant is pumped through the cylinders, heads, and manifolds. The coolant
is then pumped through the heat exchangers, where it is cooled as snow comes
in contact with the fins on each exchanger. The “cooled down” fluid then returns
to the water pump and is re-circulated.
Coolant Mixture
The coolant supplied in the system is a 50-50 mixture of ethylene-glycol and dis-
tilled water. This mixture will provide protection against freezing at temperatures
down to -34° F (-37° C). If greater protection against freezing is required, the per-
centage of antifreeze to water may be increased. Use Premium 60/40 anti-freeze
coolant. Never exceed a 60% antifreeze, 40% water mixture. Contact you dealer
if greater protection is required.
NOTE: Never add tap water to the cooling system. Minerals cause deposits and
may react adversely with the metals in the engine and cooling system.
Coolant High Temperature Indicator Light
The high temperature indicator light is controlled by a switch installed into the en-
gine coolant system. If the engine coolant reaches a certain temperature, depend-
ing on the model, the switch completes a circuit which turns the light on.
If you must drive the machine back to your starting point, drive slowly and stop fre-
quently to allow normal cool down of the engine. Contact your dealer.
Coolant Level
The engine coolant level is controlled or maintained by the recovery system. The
recovery system components are: the coolant tank or overflow tank, engine filler
neck, pressure cap (in some models), and connecting hoses.
As coolant operating temperature increases, the expanding excess coolant is
forced out of the engine, past the pressure cap (if applicable), and into the overflow
tank. As engine coolant temperature decreases, this contracting coolant is drawn
back up from the tank, past the pressure cap or filter and check valve, and back
into the engine.
CAUTION:
The coolant reservoir or surge tank must be maintained between the minimum and
maximum levels to prevent overheating and serious engine damage. Some mod-
els, maintain coolant level at the “full cold” line on the coolant tank with the engine
cold.
Flushing the Cooling System
To ensure that the coolant maintains its ability to protect the engine, the system
should be completely drained every two years and a fresh 50/50 or 60/40 mixture
of antifreeze and distilled water should be added. This service must be done when
the engine is cold.