Just bought a 2002 Ski-Doo 500RER MXZ and as this is my first sled as well as being relatively new to riding I was wondering if you fellows could help me get off to a great start.

I would like to know what are the essential tools of the trade I should have on-hand when I am pulling the new toy to snow (this year try Alaska I suppose) or a small kit I should stash away with me in saddle bags when on the trails that can help with the common repairs and adjustments. *Any books on sled repairs and maintenance as well? *Your advice and expertise is welcomed. *Thanks in advance.

Cheers - Bill * http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

brazoo,
*i don't carry any tools except for the tool kit supplied with the sled, my sleds are ready to roll before i go for a ride. now i used to leave my tool pouch in the truck i took when i went riding but not no more. the only time i take tools is on a trip when i will be away for a few days.

Carry on the sled:
1) Duct tape
2) Zip ties
3) Exhaust springs
4) Isopropyl
5) toilet paper ('cause you never know when you gotta go&#33http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif (also saves on shirt sleeves http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif )
6)Spare belt
7) Spare set of plugs (or more than one set...)
8) Something to drink...you get pretty dehydrated when riding hard.
9) Tow rope (in case you ever go riding with an arctic cat or polaris... http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif )


That about covers it for stuff to have on your sled...you could also carry a decent socket/wrench set in the truck. Some guys like to take spare gloves with them, but that depends on conditions. If I missed anything guys..I know you'll add it in!
http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif *http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

The tool kit provided with the machine is good enough for any trail side adjustments and minor repairs. *You may want to add a few things to it such as electrical tape "mechanics wire" not Baling wire http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif ....a couple extra nuts and bolts, that sort of thing. *ALWAYS carry a spare belt, spare spark plugs, extra oil and a shot of rope. *If riding alone this list can get really long but at least bring a space blanket, some water, food, fire starter, a cell phone and a change of clothes if you have room. *OH I almost forgot.....you said skidoo.....BRING A MECHANIC! http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif * just kidding, have fun.

So far so good. *Keep them coming. *Tool kit that came with sled? http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif * Dealer never gave me one and I had no clue that it should have come with one. *What did/does it contrain so I can go back to the SOB http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif *and make sure I get what I should have in the first place.

Thanks - Braz

http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif Duct Tape, Duct Tape and Duct tape. I have been in a few situations where if I had some duct tape everything would have been just dandy, but noooooo, like a bonehead I never had any and failed to pack any. Trust me I carry some now. Oh yeah basic hand tools should do the trick on the trail. Just keep your sled in top notch condition and you shouldn't have any probs........Duct tape http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

Brazoo, you said your dealer didn't give you a tool kit? It may be on the sled and you just didn't see it yet. On the new doos it is tucked in between where the belt gaurd latches and the back of the engine compartment (in front of your left knee). then again, you may have a $#itty dealer like I do and they just removed it. It should have the tool to use to change your belt and some wrenches that don't seem to fit any nuts on your sled !

i forgot the rope i pack, i am glad rocketman mentioned it. one thing that i take is an old coat, gloves and boots for loading and unloading so that i don't get my riding apparel all covered what happens during that time.

Braz,all new doos come with that tool kit.It is in a rectangular black box right where MXZ4ME said.I always carry a small flashlight(maglight).Use rechargable Ni-Cad batteries,they hold up better in the cold.Regular batteries die in the cold. http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Paul,you forgot to tell Braz about entering in his location.You are slippin man. http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

mxz7,
*i was just testing you to see if you noticed, he'll get the picture now and enter his location unless he is running from the law.

ps. did you see barnacle wheeler is back online ?

The baracle man cometh.

On the sled i only have the supplied tool kit and a rope. *Back at the truck I keep a half decent socket set. *But If you need more then a socket set then you probably shouldnt be working on it during a trip. *Wait till your back at home.

just remember no matter how many parts or tools you bring *it never seems enough, * ha, ha , *it not that bad *good luck.

Location, Location, Location. *Sorry about that guys. *These are some great tips. *I will have to go back out and look at the sled to see if I missed the tool bag if you will. *

How about basic tune-up type of how to books on the Doo's. *Since winter is basicially over and never really started I should think about getting it ready for storage which sucks. *

I am finding this board so valuable and appreciate your responses.

Cheers - Braz *http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

I never go riding without my letherman multi tool.That little thing has paid for itself several times over.Also it doesn't hurt that me and my riding bud are mechanics.

welcome aboard braz - the guys covered everything here. *one thing I can suggest is a small snowmobile emergency kit - made by a company called Justin Case - has everything you need for minor first aid problems and can help you survive a night in the bush if you break down - could save your life.

Also a good knife - I have had to dig out a belt or two before a knife was a Godsend.

i would also suggest buying the shop manual for your machine - about 30 bucks CDN, probably 20 US - It will be a huge help to do your own repairs, and also guide you through proper storage.

Good luck. *If you ever have questions, post them up here - a lot of guys on here know a LOT of stuff.

cheers

A knife! yeah I forgot to mention the Leatherman I never leave home without! Good point z800rtx http://www.snowmobileworld-s2.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

So any idea where I can get a cheap shop manual for the sled? *I checked on Amazon and Barnes and Noble.com but they only go through model year 1995. *Thanks again guys

Just buy the one at the dealer. *I dont think you will find one for any other sled.

I carry an extra belt but it is the old one. *I heard the heat cuts down on the life of the new one anyone heard that before.

yeah.....what they said! *Thanks guys for all the info. * http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

i dont think anyone has mentioned a plug wrench yet http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
seriously though,
bring a tow rope, screw driver, plug wrench, cresent wrench, and you should be good.
make sure ya have some tools in your truck, maby a small wrench set, etc... but if your sled falls apart that bad to where you need all thoes tools to get back home, ya have big problems http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

- jason

I am also a new snowmobiler and was wondering what do you do if you have a major breakdown deep in the woods? *Like the track tears off or you rip a ski off on an unseen boulder or tree? *Something that can't be repaired on the trail. *I think it would be awfully hard to tow it with another sled in this condition. *There is no way to get any other vehicle in there, so... any ideas? * *This hasn't hapenned to me yet but some of the guys I ride with were almost in this situation, but they were able to limp back home, had the damage been any worse we probably still be there!

Also, does anyone use any kind of small portable winch on their sled for when your really stuck or are these just to heavy and bulky?

Gat a siphon hose or extra fuel line to use as a siphon. It never fails that someone runs out of fuel or oil. I also carry small flares, extra bulbs, fire starter, weather proof matches, small mag lite, leatherman tool, and a small vise grip. All my buddys give me a hard time about how much stuff I bring along, but are sure happy I did when somethning goes wrong. I even have form to fill out with a list and map of where we are going, how long it should take us (just a guesstimate), who I'm riding with and what we are dressed in. If anyone would like a copy of the email me and I can post it. Its also great for fishing and hunting trips (the wife really likes it).

xmurray....it is not likely that you will ever be in that situation, it could happen, but not likely. Remember....you can always double up back to the truck, go home and get what you need (ie a toboggan to put under a broken spindle) to make the tow back to the truck easier on both sleds. Most times though a sled can be pulled back to the truck one way or another... http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif *Don't worry about it! http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

ZeRT800 *Almost sounds like me.

I have certain items stored in the back compartment in zip-loc bags. *Example, ziptie, electrical tape, duct tape all in one bag. *Another bag has a small scratch pad, pencil, pen, and other items. *Another bag has fuel lines and few extra hose clamps. *Another has first aid kit, matches and so forth

Thing is that it's easy to grab them out and switch to another sled. *You don't need a whole lot of one item and have them in ziploc bags keep them waterproof. *Oh also carry a spare set of gloves in a bag as my son last year lost a glove while riding so that helped out.

What I carry on me is. Cell phone, compass (no GPS .....yet), knife, and so forth.

If I'm just heading out for a day ride, I stick with the 'doo kit and a few extras like they guys have been mentioning (tow rope, duct tape etc.) *However....... when I take my 7-10 day hikes, I go over my sled end to end and set every tool I use off to the side. Then I find a way to take it all with me. I also take spare idlers, assorted hardware, zip ties, exhaust springs, head and tail light bulbs, hose clamps etc etc. I know this sounds like an awful lot but after experiencing (first and second hand) some breakdowns / crashes in the middle of nowhere, it's great to have enough to Macgyver something together to get going.

Michael *http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

I carry way to much, but I used to be a boy scout, so I like to be prepared.

Everything I carry has been covered above, except of course the condoms (hey you never know, ride long enough, your bound to run into a good looking snow bunny.)

FishHog

Wow Fishhog, condoms now I know why you got thrown out of Boy Scouts, you were eating way to many brownies for the rest of the troop and not sharing with your buds. *Great add on to the list I must say.

On a serious note, thanks MXZ7 and MXZ4me, the tools were right where you sent them under the hood and everything. * Such a rookie I am. * This has been a great topic and I do appreciate each of your contributions.

Many of you mentioned a letherman tool and I went to their website and found they have many variations of the tool and know I was wondering which versions the guys that have them are carrying while going sledding. *I see out in REI.com they have the super tool with adapter for $75 and was wondering if that is overkill for what most people will need on the trails.

By the way went to the local doo shop and ordered a shop manual, I don't like dealing with him cause he is such a jerk. *He charged me $47 or something like that and I was wondering if I got screwed for those that own them as well? *

Thanks again - Braz

Braz,you'll have to make your own decision about the multi-tool.A good one may be up to 75 smackers.You can get a good Leatherman for less(different models) The onboard tool kit will be pretty much all you need for trail repairs.You should not have to worry about breaking,my old 00 mxz 500 was very dependable.Other than maintainance,the only thing that broke was the tailight bulb. http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Most dealers sell shop manuals for list price,they got ya by the balls. http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif

Went to Ebaay today and found and won a Leatherman Super Tool for under $35. *Would recommend to all the way to go over paying retail. *Sears.com is even using the sight to auction off tool sets. *Very interesting way to stock up your tool boxes.

Cheers - Braz
http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

brazoo, I carry a sears tool kit that comes *(I think 56 pieces) with the elec. tape, zip ties, wire, socket set (english & metric) pliers, knife, needle nose pliers, so on and it is all contain in a lether case. Cost around $60 bucks. Fits in snug in the seat. Tow rope is a must. I have used several times in the past two seasons.

Doo

My three favourite tools are my platinum card/ cell phone and cash. *I also have a good sponsor , warranty. *In Cochrane when a sled breaks down , crashed or is just too far to get out of the bush they have a helicopter service that has a big sling.

I don't know, but I can bet that a helicopter ride for you sled might cost you a few bucks. *Hope I don't ever need to try that out.

FishHog

i carry spare belt and plugs,the tool kit that came with it,my cell phone,my hubby, and most importantly my platinum card, that can fix just about anything http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

For those who emailed me about the list I keep forgetting it at home (if my head wasn't attached I forget it somewhere). I will remember tomorrow.

I was wondering about that zert - I just figured you just came into a pile of snow and weren't spending much time indoors....

not too worry - I won't be needing it soon it doesn't appear.....

Here is the first page.

and page 2

a thin hose for gas !!! never can tell when you want a drink of gas! seen them used more than a couple times

Anybody ever carry a spare throttle cable for those "boonie" type trips?

Brazoo....I use the Leatherman Wave tool...I find it alot more comfortable in my hand than the others..... http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif *http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forums/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Make sure your tow rope is STRONG and at least 25 feet long. * In December (in the MI-UP) I had to help get somones sled out that broke through the ice in a swamp and was up to its bumper in water. * They only had a 1/4" nylon rope in bad shape that kept breaking, and was too short. *We switched to the strap I carry and hooked on to both ski tips to get it out.

Just got my Leatherman Super Tool. *It is so cool with so many different tools. *I almost feel like breaking something to use it in repairing the item. *Won't have to wait for long to find something to fix since I live in what seems to be the money pit. *Thanks to all who recommended it.

I have carried with me a couple of Stop Leak cubes. I've never had to use them, but my parents were on a trip when the one guy's sled started leaking coolant around the base gasket.

Allen keys, some of the bolts on the SC-10 are socket head.

If you use aftermarket runners, make sure you have the proper socket as the runners will probably use SAE not metric nuts.

My brother and I just check the sizes of nuts & bolts on the sled and take only those sockets & wrenches.

Make sure you can cut wire (And no, not for cutting fences) A few years ago my brother pulled off the groomed trail in front of a hunting camp. When he went to drive away, the sled was all tangled up in an old set of bed springs. They didn't have any wire cutters and they had a #### of a time getting all the wire removed from up around the front of the tunnel and track.

Something I forgot to mention in my earlier post. Last winter in Smooth Rock Falls, we met up with 2 guys all the way from Mentor OH. One of them had a crazy carpet tied to his trunk bag. We asked him what that was about. He said it helps towing a sled by sticking it under the track if the track won't turn with the belt off. I never thought to ask how you keep from pulling the sled off the crazy carpet.

One thing everbody has forgot(unless i missed it) is water proof matches. Fire is life ! *I am also one of those guys that carry way too much stuff ...like everything . One of the handyest is the vice grips and most of the other stuff the guys have mentioned. The crazy carpert is a very handy device to tow in a broke down sled , *it makes towing a lot easier and if the track is not there or does not turn it is a life saver . Just tie it on with that wire you carry . Keep in mind the sled being towed has no brakes when you do this

I never thought of that. I figured when you started off with the tow sled, you'd just pull the other sled right of the crazy carpet.