Toe Adjustment; Rear Suspension; Operation; Weight Transfer - Polaris 340 LX 2007 Service Manual

Steering and Suspension Systems

Toe Adjustment

Toe is adjusted with the shocks and skis installed. Track
alignment must be correct before starting this process.
Toe alignment is measured at ride height.
1. Lift front of the machine off the floor rock the front end
up and down and then set it down gently. This will set
the unit at ride height.
2. Measure and make a mark 10" (2.54cm) forward of
the ski mount bolt and 10" (2.54cm) behind the ski
mount bolt, preferably on the center line of the carbide
skags.
3. Place a straight edge along the one side of the track.
Make sure that the straight edge is touching along the
length of the track.
4. Record the measurements from the edge of the
straight edge to the forward ski mark and the rearward
ski mark.
5. Adjust the tie rod so that the toe is set per the
specifications.
6. Place the straight edge on the opposite side of the
track and measure the opposite ski marks.
7. Adjust the tie rod so that the toe is set per the
specifications.
8. Verify that the ski center distances are within
specification from the forward marks and the rearward
marks.
8.10

REAR SUSPENSION

Operation

The primary function of the rear suspension is to provide
a comfortable ride in all types of riding conditions. It
separates the rider from the ground, while allowing for
complete vehicle control. The rear suspension also must
provide weight transfer and maintain track tension.
The rear suspension has many adjustable features for fine
tuning to achieve optimum comfort. The suspension can
be adjusted to suit rider preference and deliver excellent
performance for a given set of conditions. It should be
noted, however, that suspension adjustments involve a
compromise or trade off. A machine set up to perform well
in the moguls would not suit the preference of a groomed
trail rider.

Weight Transfer

The shifting of weight from the skis to the track is called
weight transfer. As engine torque is applied to the drive
axle the torque is transferred to the track, pulling it forward.
This energy also tries to pull the suspension forward. The
front torque arm reacts to this force by pushing down on
the front of the track, in effect applying more weight to the
front of the track and reducing the weight on the skis. It is
important to note that energy used to lift the front of the
machine is not available to push the vehicle forward.
Changing the angle of the front torque arm changes the
suspension's reaction to the force. Adjusting the length of
the limiter strap will change the front torque arm angle.
Shortening the strap limits the extension of the front of the
suspension; reducing the angle of the torque arm and
increasing ski pressure during acceleration. Lengthening
the strap allows the front of the suspension to extend
further; increasing the angle of the torque arm and
decreasing ski pressure during acceleration. Limiter strap
adjustment has a great affect on weight transfer. Limiter
straps only affect acceleration. It is important to check
track tension whenever limiter strap length is changed.
Front track shock spring preload also affects weight
transfer. A stiffer spring and/or more preload on the spring
transfers more weight to the track. A softer spring and/or
less preload keeps more weight on the skis. Keep your
riding application in mind when choosing springs and
setting spring preload. Soft springs/preload will increase
ski pressure, but may bottom out. Stiff springs/preload will
provide more track pressure (reduced ski pressure), but
may result in a less comfortable ride
9923396 - 2007-2012 EDGE/Widetrak LX Service Manual
©2011 Polaris Sales Inc.