Can an Exhaust Leak Cause a Snowmobile to Idle High?

An snowmobile exhaust leak can provide multiple problems for the owner. While every snowmobile is built differently, the effects of an exhaust leak are consistent throughout brands. Aside from exhaust issues, many other problems can cause a snowmobile engine to have high idle speed.

Exhaust Leak

An exhaust leak can cause a snowmobile engine to idle high. This isn't necessarily a serious problem, since an exhaust leak can be repaired relatively easily.

Gas

Failure to properly drain the old gas at the end of the riding season can cause issues when you try to ride the snowmobile again. Drain the gas about once every season, or once every six months if you live in an area that permits year-round snowmobile riding.

Drive Belt

An old drive belt also can cause snowmobile idle speed to be too high. Store the belt at the end of the season to prevent oxidation over the summer months. If you live in an area that permits year-round riding, changing the drive belt once a year will help prevent mechanical problems.

References

• Snowmobiling Store: Post and Preseason Snowmobile Maintenance