Hello Snowmobile Season!
Winter has arrived, and snowmobile season has begun! It’s important to make sure our machines are well-maintained and ready to handle the cold. One of the most critical maintenance tasks is changing the oil, but it can be a real hassle, especially in colder temperatures. No-Spill® drain plugs make oil changes quick, easy, and clean even in the coldest temperatures. With No-Spill® Systems, you’ll be able to get back to your ride faster and enjoy more time on the trails.
How often do you change the oil on a snowmobile?
Initiate a break-in oil and filter change at 25 engine hours, 500 miles (800 km), or within one month of use, whichever comes first. After the break-in period, schedule oil and filter changes every 50 hours, annually, or at 1,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Remember to replace the filter with every oil change.
Where is the snowmobile engine oil drain plug located?
Look below the oil filter, and you’ll notice several Allen head screws. Identify the one with a copper washer—that’s your drain plug.
How do you drain snowmobile oil?
Step 1: Engine Warm-Up. Initiate the engine and let it run for a few minutes, ensuring the oil flows smoothly when you open the drain plugs. Ensure proper ventilation during engine operation.
Step 2: Preparation. Take off both side panels and set them aside. Remove the clutch guard, and slightly loosen the engine oil dipstick without fully removing it; it’s a yellow dipstick located directly behind the secondary clutch. Now, you’re prepared to perform work beneath the machine.
Step 3: Oil Drainage. Positioned beneath the front of the machine, remove one screw from the drain plug access panel and slightly loosen the other screw to pivot the panel, providing access to the drain plugs. Place a drain pan under the machine and use a 6mm Allen tool to extract the first drain plug. Next, use a Torx 40 bit to remove the second plug, allowing the oil to drain from both areas.
Step 4: Extract the oil filter. Located within a small metal cylinder near the intersection of the exhaust pipe and silencer, the oil filter can be accessed by removing three screws with a 8mm socket or Torx 30 bit from the cover. Due to a snug fit, the cover and filter may come out together after screw removal. Ensure the removal of the cover’s O-ring and discard it.
Step 5: Mount the new oil filter. As residual used oil drips from the engine’s base, manipulate the primary clutch by wiggling it back and forth to rotate the veins within the oil pump, facilitating drainage of the housing. Place the new O-ring onto the oil filter cover, applying clean oil to both the O-ring and the rubber sealing surface of the new filter. Install the filter and cover, then securely fasten the oil filter cover screws to 9-pound feet.
Step 6: Finalize. With the new filter in place, tasks on the right side of the machine are nearly done. Wipe off any oil residue that may have dripped from the old filter and reattach the right side panel.
Step 7: Replace plugs. By this point, the old oil has drained from the engine. Place a new sealing washer on each drain plug and secure them back into the engine. Each plug should be tightened to 15 pounds. Restore the access panel to its initial position and fasten the screws.
Step 8: Oil Engine. Positioned near the secondary clutch, extract the dipstick and pour in the oil. Reinsert the dipstick into the filler tube, initiate the engine, and let it run for a minute or two. Switch off the engine, inspect the oil level, and examine the machine for any signs of leaks. If everything appears satisfactory, insert the dipstick and attach the clutch cover and side panel.
Can I use synthetic oil on my snowmobile?
While not mandatory, opting for synthetic oil is strongly advised. Synthetic oil helps maintain cleaner power valves, allowing for longer intervals between cleanings. If you choose a standard mineral oil, you’ll probably find yourself cleaning the valves more frequently.
Can you mix synthetic snowmobile oil with regular oil?
Motor oil, whether synthetic or conventional, consists of base oils and additives. Synthetic base oils undergo a process to remove impurities present in conventional base oils. Synthetics usually include higher-quality additives. In essence, both conventional and synthetic oils share compatible components, but synthetics boast superior quality components.
Explore our comprehensive online shop page to discover the ideal oil drain plug for your snowmobile. With a wide range of options, we’ve got the perfect fit for your needs. Browse now and make your selection hassle-free!