How to Start a Snowmobile

The world of snowmobiling offers a chance to see winter in a new light. Starting a snowmobile is relatively simple, and with a few guidelines you'll be on the trail in no time.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Winter Outerwear
• Snowpack Boots
• Ski Gloves
• Ski Goggles
• Snowmobile Helmets
• Water Bottles

1. Locate the red button on the top of the handlebars. This is called the "kill switch." When you pull it up the engine can run; when you push it down, the engine will shut off immediately.

2. Pull the kill switch up.

3. Turn the key to the "on" position.

4. Make certain the cord running from the key is attached to the steering column. This device acts in the same manner as the kill switch - the engine will run only when it is secured.

5. Pull the start cord, which looks like an enlarged lawnmower pull-cord and is generally found on the right side of the machine.

6. Listen to the engine - if it starts, let it get going slowly . If it "pops" but does not continue to run, try pulling the start cord a few more times. If you do not hear the engine turn over at all, proceed to the next step.

7. Find the pull tab under the right side of the handlebars. This is called the choke - it often has a circle with a diagonal line through it. The choke helps to start an engine when the weather is very cold or the machine hasn't been used in a while. When using the choke, try leaving it on only long enough to hear the engine fire a couple times, then return it to the "off" position. A choke left on too long can flood the engine.

8. Place the choke in the vertical position - this is called the half choke position. Pull the start cord several times. If the engine fires up, place the choke back down to its original position and let it slowly warm up. If the engine still has trouble starting, proceed to the next step.

9. Pull the choke 180 degrees from its original position - this is called the full choke. Pull the start cord until the engine sputters a couple times.

10. Replace the choke to the original off position and continue to pull the cord. The engine should fire up and settle into a steady hum, ready for fun in the snow.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember not to give the engine gas when it is slowly starting. A little burst of gas can be helpful, but holding the throttle down will often flood the engine.

• It can take numerous shots to get a sled running in cold weather - try not to lose hope if it doesn't start immediately.

• If you ride double on a sled, be careful not to hit your passenger when pulling the start cord.

• Snowmobiling can be a very dangerous sport. Always wear a helmet and keep an eye out for other trail users.