Snowmobile Repair: ski doo, plastic slides, allexperts


Question
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Followup To -How do you know when the track is tight on a 1997 formula 500 sl
Thanks-dave
Question -
I would like to know the gap of the spark plug on a 1997 formula 500 sl and also how to change the rear idler wheels on this snowmobile.
Thanks,
Dave
Answer -
Hello Dave,

  The correct spark plugs are NGK BR9ES, and the proper gap would be 0.020 in. As for the idler wheels, I believe you are referring to the rear most ones, that tension the track. They are held on by a hex screw, so you will need to remove that. Once you have removed the screw, spray WD-40 all over the bearing and axle it is mounted to. Now, pull on the wheel. Use a push pull motion, by grabbing the wheel with two hands. First pull on one hand, then the other. This will generally get it off in no time. Sometimes, the wheels are stuck on, and won't come off by hand. In this case, use a rubber mallet to whack the wheel solidly, on the inner side, until it comes off. If you need a handy reference, here is a decent one: http://216.37.204.202/Skidoo_OEM/Skidoo.asp?Type=13&A=226&B=27  .  If you haven't purchased wheels yet, you can get them at www.denniskirk.com  .  Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions. Good luck with the sled! --Arcticatman

Answer
Hello Dave,

 Sorry for the delay in my response. I have been on vacation from Allexperts. To check track tension, raise the sled off the ground, so that the track hangs free, and does not touch the ground. Pull down on the track firmly. There should be 2 inches of slack from the track, to the plastic slides (hi fax) . Hope this helps you. Let me know if you have any other questions! Good luck with the sled! --Arcticatman