How to Change a Polaris Snowmobile's Clutch

You may need to replace your Polaris drive clutch.

The drive clutch on your Polaris is a wear part which will eventually need to be replaced. A broken clutch will leave you stranded on the trail, so it is important to inspect it closely at the start of the season for unusual wear or fatigue cracks. The clutch works with two pulleys that open and close expanding a belts' diameter and changing the drive ratios. This is a great system because it doesn't require changing any gears. Just push the throttle and go.

Things You'll Need

• Snowmobile owner's manual
• Socket set
• Clutch puller
• 12-point socket
• Clutch
• Lock sealant
• Slotted screwdriver

Instructions

1. Remove the belt guard and drive belt according to the directions specified in your owner's manual.

2. Pry the belly pan plug with a slotted screwdriver to give access to the bolt which secures the clutch to the crankshaft.

3. Loosen the bolt which secures the clutch to the crankshaft.

4. Install the clutch puller into the bolt hole from Step 3. The arms of the puller extend and attach to the back of the clutch. Tighten the puller until the clutch comes off. Gently tapping the end of the puller can assist in loosening a tight clutch.

5. Remove the clutch and record exactly how it was assembled at the factory. There are normally a set of spacer washers used to align the two clutches. Reassembling the new clutch with these in the correct position is essential for a proper install.

6. Slide on the new clutch onto the crankshaft. Apply a small amount of lock sealant to the threads and install the bolt which secures it to the crank shaft. Reassemble the rest in the manner you took it apart.

References

• University of Maine: To Remove Clutch