1988 Polaris Indy Trail Manual

The 1988 Polaris Indy Trail is a reliable snowmobile designed for trail riding with a 488cc liquid-cooled engine, fan cooling option, independent front suspension, and rear torsion spring suspension. Features include electric start, reverse capability, dual carburetors, and Polaris Variable Ratio (PVR) drive system. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Operation Instructions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instrument Panel 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Fuel and Lubrication 8. Storage Procedures 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 488cc liquid-cooled engine, electric start, reverse gear, independent front suspension, rear torsion spring suspension, dual Mikuni carburetors.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	488cc liquid-cooled twin cylinder
Starting System	Electric start with pull start backup
Drive System	Polaris Variable Ratio (PVR)
Suspension Front	Independent trailing arm
Suspension Rear	Torsion spring with adjustable preload
Track Size	15 x 121 inches
Brake System	Hydraulic disc brake
Fuel Capacity	11.5 US gallons
Reverse	Standard equipment
Carburetion	Dual Mikuni VM34

Safety Information

Always wear proper safety gear and follow operating guidelines.

Pre-ride inspection: Check brakes, throttle, steering, and track before each use.
Protective gear: Always wear helmet, eye protection, gloves, and appropriate clothing.
Riding conditions: Be aware of weather, terrain, and visibility conditions.
Passengers: Designed for single rider only unless equipped with passenger seat.

WARNING! Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs. Always use designated trails.

Operation Instructions

Starting procedure and basic operation guidelines.

Pre-start check: Verify fuel level, oil level, and all controls function properly.
Starting: Turn key to ON position, set choke, press start button or pull starter cord.
Warm-up: Allow engine to warm up for 2-3 minutes before riding.
Driving: Use throttle gradually, practice braking and turning in safe area.
Reverse operation: Come to complete stop before engaging reverse.

CAUTION! Avoid rapid throttle application. Always use both hands on handlebars.

Specifications

Engine: 488cc liquid-cooled twin cylinder, 2-stroke
Bore x Stroke: 72mm x 60mm
Horsepower: Approximately 55 HP
Fuel System: Dual Mikuni VM34 carburetors
Ignition: CDI electronic ignition
Transmission: PVT automatic with reverse
Suspension Travel Front: 7 inches
Suspension Travel Rear: 10 inches
Dry Weight: 475 pounds
Overall Length: 114 inches
Overall Width: 47 inches
Overall Height: 48 inches

Controls and Instrument Panel

Handlebar controls and gauge cluster functions.

Left Handlebar: Thumb throttle, headlight dimmer switch, choke lever, reverse button.

Right Handlebar: Brake lever, engine stop switch, start button.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, odometer, tripmeter, fuel gauge, warning lights (oil, temperature, battery). Key switch with OFF/ON/START positions.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Daily: Check fuel, oil, track tension, skis, and controls
Every 500 miles: Change engine oil, check drive belt, inspect suspension
Every 1000 miles: Replace spark plugs, check carburetor synchronization
Seasonal: Grease fittings, check bearings, inspect track and slides
Annual: Full inspection, carburetor cleaning, brake fluid check

Tip: Keep maintenance records for warranty and resale value.

Fuel and Lubrication

Fuel requirements and lubrication specifications.

Fuel: Use 87 octane or higher unleaded gasoline
Oil: Polaris Premium 2-stroke injection oil or equivalent
Fuel/Oil Ratio: 40:1 for pre-mix models (if applicable)
Chaincase Oil: SAE 80W-90 gear oil
Grease Points: Suspension components, steering linkage

WARNING! Use only recommended lubricants. Never use automotive oil in injection system.

Storage Procedures

Proper storage preparation for off-season.

Fuel system: Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes
Engine: Fog engine with storage oil through spark plug holes
Battery: Remove and store fully charged in cool, dry place
Track: Lift off ground to prevent flat spots on hyfax
Cover: Use breathable cover to protect from dust and moisture

CAUTION! Drain fuel from carburetors if storing more than 3 months.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression issue	Check fuel supply, spark plugs, compression; verify choke operation
Poor performance	Clogged carburetor, worn belt	Clean carburetor, inspect and replace drive belt if necessary
Overheating	Coolant level, water pump	Check coolant level, inspect water pump and cooling system
Electrical issues	Battery, connections	Test battery, check all electrical connections and grounds
Track problems	Tension, alignment	Adjust track tension and alignment; replace worn hyfax

Service: Contact authorized Polaris dealer for major repairs.

Warranty Information

1988 Polaris Indy Trail includes 1-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, or accident damage. Keep original purchase receipt for warranty claims. For warranty service, contact authorized Polaris dealer.