The Engine Specifications for a 1996 Ski-Doo 380

Snowmobiling is a winter activity that has increased in popularity throughout the last several years. Given that riders enjoy a sense of adventure and a fun activity to do with family members, it isn't hard to see why. A large range of snowmobile models are available. Each snowmobile has different engine specifications that affect things like speed and torque. Important engine specifications for a 1996 Ski-Doo 380 include the starter, displacement, engine stroke, and engine type.

  1. Starter

    • Starters are responsible for turning the engine over which enables the vehicle to start. The 1996 Ski-Doo 380 can be purchased with either a pull start or an electric start. A pull start can make your 1996 Ski-Doo 380 more cost effective. Of course, there is often difficultly in starting pull-start engines. Pull starts can also have complications with the pull string breaking or failing to recoil. If you want to avoid these complications, you can opt for an electric start. Electric starts, although more expensive, have become more popular in small engines. Although an electric start can go out in an engine, it is often easier to replace. Electric starts are also easier to use.

    Displacement

    • The 1996 Ski-Doo 380 has an engine displacement of 380cc. Displacement of an engine indicates the engine's size and power. There are other determining factors that affect the amount of power that an engine is capable of including compression ratio within the cylinders and induction system. All factors should be considered when comparing one engine to another.

    Engine Stroke

    • 1996 Ski-Doo 380s have two-stroke engines. In two-stroke engines, there is a compression stroke and a power stroke. The compression stroke causes the piston to go up and compress a fuel/air mixture. The power stroke causes fuel to ignite, driving the piston down. During the downward motion of the piston, the crankshaft is turned and the fuel/air mixture is pressurized. Towards the bottom of the stroke, an outlet opens, allowing exhaust gasses to be released. An inlet then opens, allowing new fuel and air to rush in for the next compression cycle.

    Engine Style

    • The 1996 Ski-Do 380 has a horizontal in-line engine with two cylinders. The cylinders are where the engine strokes occur. The horizontal in-line refers to how the cylinders in the engine are laid out. This does not affect the speed or handling of the engine, but aids in the structure of the snowmobile, allowing for a more compact size and shape.