SLEDsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Before you even start it up, understand that YOU are 100% responsible for the operation of any powered machine that you’re operating. Do you accept this  responsibility? If the answer is yes, then go ahead and fire it up!

Use these steps to ensure a safe smooth start-up, and always refer to your owner's manual for any specific instructions.

STEP 1

Make sure the machine is facing a safe direction (i.e. there are no kids, dogs or obstacles around that you could accidentally hit).

STEP 2

Be ready to start your sled by kneeling or sitting in the proper position on the machine.

STEP 3

Engage the parking brake (if equipped).

STEP 4

Ensure that the throttle isn’t frozen or sticking by depressing it at least once. When the throttle is released it should return quickly to it's original position.

STEP 5

Make sure the key and safety switches are in the “ON” position.

STEP 6

To increase fuel intake, choke or prime the engine (if required).

STEP 7

If your machine starts electronically, turn the key to the “start” position. Release the choke once the engine is running properly.

STEP 8

If your machine is a manual start, pull the recoil starter cord until you feel resistance, then pull hard without allowing the handle to snap back into place.

STEP 9

If you use the choke and the engine doesn't start, or it hesitates to start, stop before you use too much gas and wait a minute before trying again (this will help prevent the engine from being flooded).

STEP 10

Once the machine has been properly started, allow it to idle for at least 30 seconds before you get going.

RIDER SAFETY TIP: THE WARM-UP RULES

Remember that if your engine has a carburetor and it’s cold, you’ll need to choke or prime the engine in order to properly start the machine. However, understand that you should NEVER choke or prime an engine that's already warm, or you may end up flooding it. When warming up your engine, release the parking brake and increase the throttle moving SLOWLY at first until the engine and track are warmed up. If your snowmobile doesn't begin to move forward when you increase throttle, stop immediately and engage the parking brake. Then check to see if you’re dealing with either a frozen track or a situation of seized-up brakes.