Drive System Operation; Relationship Between Drive Clutch Weights And Spring - Polaris 2003 Pro X Service Manual

Operation
The Polaris drive system is a centrifugally actuated variable speed belt drive unit. The drive clutch, driven clutch,
and belt make up the torque converter system. Each clutch comes from the factory with the proper internal
components installed for its specific engine model. Therefore, modifications or variations of components at
random are never recommended. Proper converter setup and adjustments of existing components must be the
primary objective in converter operation diagnosis.
CAUTION:
All converter maintenance repairs must be performed only by an authorized Polaris service technician who has
attended a Polaris sponsored service training seminar and understands the proper procedures as outlined in this
manual. Because of the critical nature and precision balance incorporated into the drive clutch, it is absolutely
essential that no attempt at clutch disassembly and/or repair be made without factory authorized special tools and
service procedures. Any unauthorized modifications to clutches, such as adding or removing weights, will void the
warranty.
Relationship Between Drive Clutch Weights And Spring In Maintaining Operating RPM
The drive clutch is an RPM and torque sensing unit designed to transfer the maximum amount of horsepower from
the engine to the ground. This is accomplished by weights and a spring inside the unit which react to the
centrifugal force from the engine RPM.
The spring and weights work in combination. In a properly set up clutch, the maximum desired operating RPM will
be reached immediately after clutch engagement, under full throttle conditions. To gain optimum power this RPM
should be maintained. As centrifugal force pushes the weights against the rollers, the moveable sheave will force
the belt to climb up the drive clutch sheave and increase vehicle speed.
ENGAGEMENT
If the weights are too light, or the spring rate too high, the maximum RPM will be too great and the drive belt will not
move into high gear at the top of the clutch.
9000
8000
ENGINE OPERATING RANGE 200 RPM
7000
6000
5000
4000
3000
CLUTCHING
4.17