How to Troubleshoot Yamaha Snow Machines

Yamaha Motor manufactures and sells trail, cross country, mountain and touring snow machines commonly called snowmobiles. The snowmobiles are generally reliable, and in 2008, a Yamaha RS Venture made the longest snowmobile journey ever recorded at 12,163 miles. However, problems that do occur can be corrected by following some steps. Problems can include the engine turning over but not starting, and low power.

Things You'll Need

  • Socket set
  • Spark plug thickness gauge
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Instructions

    • 1

      Add fuel to the tank if the Yamaha snowmobile engine turns over but won't start.

    • 2

      Check the spark plugs if you continue to experience problems starting. Remove the engine shrouds and identify the spark plugs---they're on the side of the engine and have wires protruding. Remove the wires, and using a socket wrench, unscrew the spark plugs. Look at the porcelain insulator around the central electrode, the color should be a medium to light beige. Anything else can indicate engine problems and require dealer service.

    • 3

      Measure the spark plug and clean the area around it before reinserting it. On a Yamaha FX Nytro snowmobile, the gap should be 0.028-0.31-inches. But you should check your individual Yamaha's requirements.

    • 4

      Check the air filter area if you continue to experience problems. Always take a look for snow under the air filter element frame during riding. Snow accumulation will obstruct air flow and cause the engine to slow.

    • 5

      Start the Yamaha snowmobile engine, warm it up for 10 minutes and then turn it off. Park the snowmobile on a flat surface, apply the brake, and check the oil if you experience low power. Remove the shroud, and right side cover. Disconnect the oil lever gauge coupler and then the oil cap. Wipe the dipstick clean and insert it back into the hole. Remove it and check the levels. The oil level should be between the "H" and "L" mark. If it's below "L," fill it.