How to Make Your Yamaha SRV Snowmobile a Racer
The Yamaha SRV first introduced in 1980 was a heavy sled, but its sturdy construction, powerful 540cc engine, and front strut suspension made it a favorite with cross country racers right from the start. The 1983 upgrade of the rear suspension made the SRV famous for offering ride quality superior to anything in its class. With legions of devotees, these vintage snowmobiles have long been subject to modification and customization, and there is no shortage of forums on the Internet discussing performance enhancement and where to locate parts.
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Things You'll Need
- Mikun round slide carburetor
- Front end shim kit
- Shock spacers
- Light springs
- Black Magic wheel rail tip kit
- Air dam
- Idler wheels
- Rear limiter strap
Instructions
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Decide what sort of racing appeals most to you. The SRV can handle any course, but while removing the rev limiter, supercharging, and making other engine modifications to boost horsepower may be acceptable for shorter races, it is likely to cause breakdowns in distance events. It is also common and not terribly difficult to equip the SRV with wheeled runners for drag racing on rubber, asphalt, and grass tracks.
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Replace the standard carburetor with a Mikun round slide to boost power. The oil injectors and rev limiter can also be removed if the engine will only be running briefly.
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Lowering the sled will improve its aerodynamics and make the power more efficient due to less track angle from driver to rails. Put a spacer in the shocks and install light springs - model number 0604-541585 and tighten them down while someone presses firmly on the front end. Shorten the rear limiter straps as much as the front suspension was lowered.
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Put in Black Magic wheel rail kits for drag racing and other types of off snow racing. An air dam at the front will help prevent wheelies in drag racing. They look cool, but eat up time.
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Tips & Warnings
Yamaha sells a front end shim kit that eliminates handlebar slog.
It is possible to install a larger engine. Almost anything is possible with a Yamaha SRV. People have spent over $100,000 modifying these beloved beasts.
Always wear a helmet and proper safety gear when riding a snowmobile.
References
Resources
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