Polaris 600 Automobile User Manual


 
104
MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION
PVT System
The basic operation of the Polaris PVT system is dependent on engine
speed an d vehicle torque requirements. As engine s peed increases, the
force exerted on the movable drive sheave by the flyweights also
increases. This, in turn, increases the amount of pinch appliedtothe
drive belt. Similarly, if the engine speed decreases, the amount of
centrifugal force decreases, reducing the amount of belt pinch.
On Polaris ATVs, the approximate gear ratio difference between high
and low range is 1:2.25. This difference in gearing affects the operation
of the PVT, esp ecially at speeds less than 7 MPH (11 KPH), due to th e
system’s dependence on engine speed.
For example, when operating at a ground speed of 3 MPH (5 KPH) in
low range, the engine speed would be around 3000 RPM. This is well
above the engagement speed of 1200 - 1400 RPM. However, in high
range at 3 MPH (5 KPH), the engine would be running at only 1500
RPM. Whenever operating this close to the engagement speed, the
engine may be running at a speed too low to provide the pinch needed
to prevent belt slip. Belt slip is responsible for creating the excessive
heat that destro ys belt s and causes outer clutch co vers to fail.
By switching to low range while operating at low ground speeds, the
air temperature in the clutch cover is reduced by almost 160 degrees.
Reducing the temperature inside the clutch cover extends the life of the
PVT components (belt, cover, etc.).
When To Use Low Range vs. High Range
Following is a guideline for when to use low range and high range.
Low Range
S When basic op eration is at speeds less than 7 MPH (11 KPH)
S For heavy pulling
S When operating in rough terrain (swamps, mountains, etc.) at low
ground speeds
High Range
S When basic op eration is at speeds greater than 7 MPH (1 1 KPH)
S When operating at high ground speeds