Snowmobile Repair: slides, silicone lubricant, roll pins

Question
I have a 1998 polaris trail touring and need to replace the slides how do I go about it.

Answer
Hello David,

  Replacing the slides is fairly easy, just takes some time. Keep in mind, when you buy slides, they are always generally too long, and will need to be cut the same size as the old slides, possibly just a slight amount longer, due to wear on the old slides. Here are diagrams for a reference that you may find useful,  http://216.37.204.202/polaris_oem/PolarisSnow.asp?Type=12&A=201  .  To remove the slides, you will either need to have the sled on it's side, which is ideal, or the track will need to be elevated off of the ground. There will either be a bolt(s) or roll pins retaining the slides. They are always in the front or center of the slide, or both. Use a heat gun, or hair drier to get the slides warm. The warmer they are the better, as they are on very tight. Next, spray silicone lubricant or any type of non-oil based lubricant such as dish liquid on the entire slide area where they meet the metal slide rails. Let it soak in. Now, turn the track so that, as the slide comes out, it will go out between the track clips, and not hit the track. Use a small piece of wood and a hammer and pound the slide out. This is pretty tricky. Sometimes you can use a chisel or large screw driver to get it going. Once the sled is off, clean the slide rails, and spray silicone on them. For installation, get the slide started by hand, and then use the wood and hammer to fully install the slide. reinstall any retaining bolts or roll pins. I hope I have helped you. Let me know if you have any other questions. Good luck with the sled! --Arcticatman