Snowmobile Repair Tools

Whether he is the proud owner of a new M1000 Arctic Cat or a novice with a slightly used Polaris, every snowmobile enthusiast needs a few basic tools to keep his machine in top running order. A few good tools can keep the cost of owning a snowmobile down and help maintain efficiency and safety of the machine for many years to come.

  1. Track Clip Tool

    • No snowmobile repair toolbox is complete without a track clip tool. Track clips hold the snowmobile's track onto the unit. There are two types of clips on the track: wear clips and guide clips. Together they number about 100 clips on one track, and each one must be crimped into place. This is the job of the track clip tool. Although a little pricey, in the $60 to $150 range, it is indispensable for doing the job correctly.

    Universal Flywheel Puller

    • Another indispensable tool for snowmobile repair is the universal flywheel puller. This tool is vital for changing the points on the magneto-equipped engine of the snowmobile. This 11-piece set removes flywheels without damaging the crankshaft threads. It can also be used on watercraft, chain saw, lawnmower, outboard motor and motorcycle flywheels.

    Extension Spring Hook

    • Extension springs or tensile springs are designed to support loads. The extension spring hook is a tool for removing and installing exhaust springs on a snowmobile.

    Liquid Vac

    • A liquid extraction tool removes oil and fluids from the snowmobile without the usual mess. The cheapest one is basically a cylinder with a pumping handle on the top, somewhat like a bicycle pump connected to a hose that is immersed into the oil or other fluid in the snowmobile. After a few up-and-down stokes of the handle, oil or fluid in the snowmobile moves into a canister that can be emptied at a convenient location. Electric liquid extraction tools are also available.

    Clutch Press/ Alignment Tool

    • The clutch alignment tool is used to keep the drive belt in alignment with the snowmobile clutch.

    Rivet Gun/Rivets

    • Many parts such as the belly pan, running boards and suspension brackets are affixed to the snow machine with rivets of varying sizes and composition. A snowmobile repair kit should contain a good rivet gun along with the appropriate rivets for replacing missing or worn out OEM (original equipment manufacturer) rivets.

    Recoil Air Hose and Compressor or Shop Vac

    • Most snowmobile enthusiasts have a recoil air hose to use in conjunction with an air compressor to push water out of the irrigation lines at the end of the season. The recoil keeps the hose from splaying all over the repair area. Some sledders have this done by servicing stations while others rig their workshop vacuums.

    Grip Locks

    • Grip locks belong in every toolbox. These pliers are the second-pair-of-hands that hold rivets, track clips and other loose small items in place while the repair is being completed.