How to Troubleshoot a Snowmobile

Snowmobiles are motor-driven sleds which allow for travel across packed snow or frozen bodies of water. Most snowmobiles can only accommodate a single driver, while others are built for a maximum of two passengers. First used by hunters, foresters and other winter workers, the vehicle was quickly adopted for recreational use. Racing, trail exploration, trick riding and mountain scaling are all possible with the average snowmobile. If yours isn't responding, you can troubleshoot it by performing a quick check of the vital components.

Things You'll Need

  • Wire brush
  • Clean towel
  • Adjustable wrench
  • 12-volt battery, fully charged
  • Jumper cables
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Instructions

    • 1

      Ensure there is fuel in the snowmobile's tank and refuel if not. If there is a sufficient amount of fuel, locate the fuel line, which is a hose that runs from the engine to the tank. Check that the fuel line is completely intact with no holes, obstructions or fraying. Replace the fuel line if it appears damaged.

    • 2

      Remove the front shroud using the instructions in your snowmobile owner's manual. Lift out the spark plugs and clean away carbon or other corrosion with a wire brush. Wipe the plugs dry with a towel before replacing them.

    • 3

      Locate the cylinder head nuts on top of the engine's cylinder block. Snug them with an adjustable wrench if they are loose. Also check the condition of the gaskets, which are located between the engine and the cylinder head. If deteriorated, the gaskets should be replaced.

    • 4

      Locate the "Engine Stop" switch on the snowmobile's main control panel. If the switch is pushed in, pull it out. Once engaged, this switch will prevent the engine from starting.

    • 5

      Check the coolant levels. Add a fresh supply to the coolant reservoir if levels are low.

    • 6

      Tip the snowmobile carefully on its side. Check the track and belt on the underside of the snowmobile for obstructions, such as tree branches, rocks or chunks of ice, as these can temporarily freeze the vehicle.

    • 7

      Turn on the snowmobile's headlights to check for battery charge. If they fail to illuminate or do so dimly, the battery will need to be jumped. Apply the parking brake and set the main switch to the "OFF" position. Connect the red jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal on the snowmobile battery, and the other end to the positive terminal on the 12-volt battery. Connect the black jumper cable to the negative (-) terminal on the 12-volt battery and the other end to the negative terminal on the snowmobile battery.

    • 8

      Start the snowmobile and wait for the engine to turn over. The engine should be running smoothly and all lights should be functional. Remove the black jumper cable from the negative (-) terminal on the snowmobile battery, then from the 12-volt battery. Remove the red jumper cable from the positive (+) terminal on the 12-volt battery, then from the snowmobile battery.