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The information contained in this Safety Handbook is supple- mental to that covered in the Operator’s Guide provided with your new SKI-DOO snowmobile. Both the guide and this hand- book should be used in conjunction. All content should be interpreted by the reader as a WARNING which if not followed may result in serious personal injury including the pos- sibility of death.
Snowmobiles are used in many areas and in many snow conditions. Not all models perform the same in similar conditions. Always con- sult your snowmobile dealer when selecting 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.
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SNOWMOBILE CONTROLS A30H01A Steering — The steering handlebar assembly controls the direction of travel of the snowmobile. As the handlebar is rotated to right or left, the skis are turned in the direction of intended travel. Proper shifting of your body weight helps in turning. Occasionally check your steering system to be sure its movement is unrestricted.
Switches — An ignition switch allows electrical current to start or stop the engine. It is key operated and has at least two positions. If your snowmobile is equipped with an electric starter, the switch will have a third or “start” position that activates the starter mechanism. It is spring loaded to return the key to the “on”...
Your snowmobile should be given a thorough check periodically and a general check before each ride. Always follow the maintenance schedules and procedures specified in the SKI-DOO Operator’s Guide. PARTS AND TOOLS Every snowmobiler should carry at least the following basic parts and tools that can help him and others in an emergency: •...
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A WORD TO ALL SNOWMOBILERS Everyone is a beginner the first time he sits behind the controls of a snowmobile regardless of previous experience in driving an automo- bile, 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.
BEFORE YOU START Always make a pre-start inspection BEFORE you turn on the ignition. Throttle — Operate the throttle two or three times before you turn on the ignition. Does it return freely to the idle or closed position? Brake controls — Test your brake control as you did the throttle. Visual inspection —...
HOW TO START Never attempt to start the engine unless the throttle returns to its normal or idle position. Verify this before starting. Keep hands off of throttle when actually starting. • Connect tether cord and attach it to your clothing. •...
HOW TO RIDE Your riding position and balance are the two basic principles of mak- ing 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.
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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 quick stops. A30H03A KNEELING This position is achieved by placing one foot firmly on the running board and the opposite knee on the seat.
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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 quick stop. A30H05A...
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.
FROZEN WATER Traveling frozen lakes and rivers can be fatal. Avoid waterways. If you are in a unfamiliar area, ask the local authorities or residents about the ice condition, inlets, outlets, springs, fast moving currents or oth- er hazards. Never attempt to operate your snowmobile on ice that may be too weak to support you and the vehicle.
DOWNHILL Downhill driving requires that you have full control of your vehicle at all times. On steeper hills, keep your center of gravity low and both hands on the handlebar. Maintain slight throttle pressure and allow the machine to run downhill with the engine operating. If a higher than safe speed is reached, slow down by braking but apply the brake with frequent light pressure.
BRIGHT SUNSHINE Bright sunny days can produce different problems. The glare from sun and snow may blind you to the extent that you cannot easily distinguish ravines, ditches or other obstacles. Goggles with colored lenses should always be worn under these conditions. UNSEEN OBSTRUCTION There may be obstructions hidden beneath the snow.
TURNING Depending on terrain conditions, there are two preferred ways to turn or corner a snowmobile. For most snow surfaces, “body english” is the key to turning. Leaning towards the inside of the turn and posi- tioning body weight on the inside foot will create a “banking” condi- tion beneath the track.
RAILROAD CROSSING Never ride on railroad tracks. It is illegal. Railroad tracks and railroad rights-of-way are private property. A snowmobile is no match for a train. When crossing a railroad track, stop, look and listen. NIGHT RIDES The amount of natural and artificial light at a given time can effect your ability to see or to be seen.
CARRYING A PASSENGER If your snowmobile is so designed and you are carrying a passenger, you should inform him of snowmobiling basics. Make sure that you instruct your passenger to maintain a firm grasp of the passenger strap or grips. Never carry more than one passenger. Overloading is dangerous and the machine is not designed for it.
TRAILS AND SIGNS Trail signs are used to control, direct or regulate the use of snowmo- biles on trails. Become familiar with all signs used in the area where you are snowmobiling. TRANSPORTING AND TOWING Tilt bed trailers can easily be equipped with a winch mechanism to afford maximum safety in loading.
LAWS AND REGULATIONS Federal, state, provincial and local government agencies have enact- ed 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 regulations. Respect and observance will result in safer snowmobiling for all.
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Avoid road traveling. If you must do so and it is permitted, reduce speed. The snowmobile is not designed to operate or turn on pav- ing. When crossing a road, make a full stop, then look carefully in both directions before crossing at a 90° angle. Be wary of parked vehicles.
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Always show a new operator how to start and stop the vehicle. Indicate the correct riding positions and, above all else, only allow him to operate the snowmobile in a restricted flat area — at least until he is completely familiar with its operation. If there is a local snowmobile operator’s training course existing, have him enroll.
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Drinking and driving demonstrates a most irresponsible attitude not only to others but to yourself. Legislators and the pop- ulation in general don’t tolerate it for good reason and Ski-Doo doesn’t either! Wildlife compliments your snowmobiling day. Snowmobile tracks provide firm ground over which animals can travel from area to area.
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Recognizing the importance of this issue and the need for snowmo- bilers to do their share in preserving areas that make it possible to enjoy our sport, Ski-Doo has developed the “Light Treading Is Smart Sledding” campaign for snowmobilers. Light Treading refers to more than the thread of our tracks. It’s a statement of concern, respect and willingness to take the lead and take action.
JUST WHAT IS LIGHT TREADING? The fundamental objective of Light Treading is one of respect for where and how you ride a snowmobile. You’re a light treader when you follow the principles below. Become informed. Obtain maps, regulations and other information from the Forest Service or from other public land agencies.
Finally, Light Treading is the sign of a smart snowmobiler. You don’t have to leave big tracks or careen through a virgin forest to show you can ride. So whether you’re driving a high performance Ski-Doo For- mula Mach 1 a sporty Safari or any other make or model, show you know what you’re doing.
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