Snowmobile Repair: 97 polaris ultra, worn clutch, sled

Question
Hi I own a 1997 polaris ultra spx.  it's a single seat with no reverse.  I just purchased it from a dealer.  they told me that it would need a new drive clutch because the (polish) or something was worn on the sides.  They said it may run for a while or may break the first ride.  I took it out the first time and It ran great!  even a second time, only for an hour each time.  but the next time it began to run different.  it was like I had less power or torque.  I had to hold the throddle longer to get the same response.  I checked the plugs and they seem to be fine.  They are dry and all were fireing.  I was wondering if the clutch had anything to do with it.  Or maybe it's something totally different  help  thanks

Answer
Hello Alex,

  First off, the is the any warranty on the sled? If there is, I would recommend having them look at it, so it won't cost you anything. Other than that, a worn clutch will make the engagement speed higher, meaning you will really have to rev the engine more to get it to move. Is the engine running ok, or is it bogging? If the engine will rev right up without hesitation, then I would suspect the clutch. If the engine doesn't want to rev up, it would probably be the spark plugs, that happens alot when a sled hasn't been out for a real ride in awhile. The correct plugs are NGK BR9ES with the gap being 0.028. My guess, if the engine is running fine, is that the clutch needs replacement, because it would be eating your drive belt. that causes the sled to engage at higher RPM, with less power. Hope this helps, let me know if you need any help, or how it goes. Good luck! --Arcticatman