ask the skidoo engineers 2004 models

9 vs 10 drivers
dynofox
I just switched from Polaris to Ski Doo so forgive the questions. I have a 04 Rev 800HO Adreniline ordered. Will it come like the BM version with the 9 or 10 tooth drivers? What is reccommended if 91 octane gas is not available. I have it ordered w/DPM, how long is the "break in"? What if any changes were made to the gas gauge accuracy? Can I install the electric gas and temp. gauges myself? I have installed both on my Polaris''s for years. They have really good instructions. So the test is are Ski-Doo'' installation instructions as good. LOL. I can''t wait to get the new beast. Looking forward to your responses.
sueperdave
Good question on the gas gauge, is it more accurate (it could not be any worse, that is for sure) and can it be fitted on an 03??
pierre3737
It will come with the 10 driver on all 04 rev and yes fuel gauge will be more accurate on all rev also.yes you could install the gauges yourself.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
WHOA, a lot of questions. Here are the answers:
1) 10-tooth drivers standard.
2) 91 octane is NOT required
3) Break-in is two hours to change to the normal ignition timing curve and the rest is per the owner's manual
4) The gas gauge has been recalibrated for better accuracy
5) Yes, you can install electric gauges yourself - in fact the sled is pre-wired for them.
Welcome to the family and Enjoy your new Ski-Doo MX Z.

Improvements to the 04 REV
Mighty RX-1
Besides the obvious (Beaver tail gone), what improvements were made to the REV?
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
Another year of testing has improved the handling tremendously, mostly due to front and rear suspension calibrations.
10-tooth drivers and a lengthened and rolled chaincase are standard for improved rolling resistance and better top speed.
The front torque arm has been lengthened for improved handling and weight transfer in acceleration and deceleration.
A new sway bar and new shock/spring calibration drastically improve cornering and bump absorption capacity.
As mentioned in other posts, we have also improved the gas gauge accuracy.

600sdi fuel milage
Mighty RX-1
Coming off an RX-1, I have gotten use to extended cruising range at 15-17 mpg us. Can you give an accurate cruising range and MPG rating of the 600sdi rev?
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
You will not have to change your expectations moving to a Ski-Doo.
The Rotax 2-TEC 600HO SDI has been producing 14-18 MPG (US gallons) and 16-20 MPG (Imperial gallons). The same fuel range as a four-stroke, without the weight!

2003 Rev weight vs 2004 Rev weight
bbgun
My brochure on my 2003 rev shows dry weight at 454 and the 2004 is now at 464 yet according to brochure you lost 6 lbs with the removal of the beavertail? I am confused.Also the rear suspension states that it is 14.5 inches and the 04 states 13 inches, what happened?
Mighty RX-1
Bigger heat exchanger is my guess. They had to do this because the beaver tail placed the snow right on the exchanger, with it gone now they had to compensate.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
The 2002 MX Z-REV late release weighed 454 lbs dry as a pre-production prototype unit. The final 2003 production vehicles, weighed 469lbs. dry, due to the addition of a full-clipped track for increased top speed, additional sound management additions and other reliability/durability modifications. You may have read about these changes in the various snowmobile magazines last fall.
Regarding suspension travel. the fixed REV-X tunnel offers slightly less clearance for suspension travel than the articulated did.
Understand that suspension travel of the rear shock is not as important with the forward riding position of the REV, and does not equate to suspension comfort like on conventional snowmobiles. The center shock now plays a much bigger role in comfort and less bumps are transmitted to the rider because of positioning - the rules have changed.
Racers have the same travel (13.5-inches) and they use that sled in the most extreme conditions.

SD "extending" Ask the Engineers
ProSno
What is SD's position on supporting your customer's tech questions online throughout the year, this year, with a SD Engineering Manager?
Your benchmark is currently the accessibility to AC/GLS in multiple forums on the web. GLS could run for president or prime minister and win in the cat forums. The opportunity to increase customer loyalty and satisfaction is huge, not to mention the opportunity to payside forums like AMS.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
Thanks for your comment ProSno. We will evaluate this option for the next season.

Renegade SDI Question
sledlover
Why are you only offering the 600SDI in the Renegade X and not the standard Renegade?
Many people don't need the X package or would be wasting money on it. With the SDI600 available on so many models I think you really overlooked the standard Renegade.
snopaw
I agree 600 SDI should be in standard Renegade. If we could have standard seat on x model as well as better windshield with no extra charge then x-model is fine for me because of better shocks for heavy rider.
mxzrev800
Also why is there no SDI in the 800ho. If its in the GSX why wasn't it offered in the MXZX.
Mighty RX-1
It's not in the gsx, only the legend
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
Ideally, we would like to offer an almost infinite combination of models, packages, engine and colors. But we just can't for many reasons, such as limited availability of key components for any given year.
Thanks for your comment, and we'll consider a 600HO SDI in a full year MX Z Renegade sled for the future

Windshields
sledlover
Why are you going backwards in terms of rider protection? I had a chance to ride a 03 sport
with the standard windshield. It is an awesome sled, but after 5 miles I had light frostbite on
my neck(this was at 5 to 10 degreesF). Now many sleds have a lower windshield? I don''t understand?
The Summit windshield looks like the direction to go.
sueperdave
I agree, one of the biggest complaints of the REV is cold. On mine the only protection that is lacking is from the neck up. I'm hoping to put the GSX windshield on my 03, will it fit?
Also, I hear that the shield on the summit is a brakaway one, that would be a great feature since I broke mine while jumping because of the proximaty of the rider to the shield! Will the 04 summit windshield fit a 03?
Thanks.
sledstorm
Will the 04 Summit windshield fit the 04 x? Any clearance issues with the hand gards?
Snopaw
I second sledstorms question
jestal
My 800REV X has very poor wind protection and the ''taller'' Skidoo windshield is not much better. This should not be too hard to fix as I gained a LOT of protection by just standing the ''taller'' windshield up a few more degrees by modifying the mounting bracket. The steeper windshield angle deflects better, is about 2 inches taller and looks stock as the angle is basically the same as the cowl now. Why can't Skidoo offer a better windshield for this sled????
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
This is a question of personal taste.
Some riders want tall, protective windshields, others want small, sleek looking ones. Some want to look over the windshield, others through it.
We put on the best windshield for the sled's intended application.
But we do offer several options as accessories to meet different preferences.
On REV-based sleds, for example, there is the very small, MX Z X-package windshield, the mid-height movable, plus the taller GSX movable. Then there's the fixed Summit shield. All are pretty inexpensive, so a rider can get just the protection he wants with the number of options available.
And for the low X-Package windshield you can interchange it with the Summit fixed windshield in seconds.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
Superdave, take a look at taller GSX windshield, yes, it will fit your '03. You heard right ? the Summit shield is a pop-off and can be easily installed on your '03 as well, with minor changes.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
Sledstorm,
Yes, the Summit shield will fit, but you will have to remove the handguards. There will be a kit for using the Summit windshield with your MXZ - ready later this summer.

Rev Colors
y2k700
Have heard many complaints about the black w/yellow hood combo. Lots of people would like a yellow/black or blue combo without having to go to the X-Package. How about all yellow for standar REV!
snowtracker
Yes,
It took me a year to get used to the Yellow/black hood combo. Just when I was coming onboard, you reverse the combination. My first choice is an all-yellow adrenaline.....you are Skidoo right? Come on at least build one (for me)!
-snowtracker
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
Ideally, we would like to offer an almost infinite combination of models, packages, engine and colors.
But we just can?t for many reasons, such as limited availability of key components and the logistics of managing that many different iterations.
Ski-Doo accessory plastic parts on the REV are available in a variety of colors, are very affordable, and are easy to interchange - which allows you to customize your sled in many combinations.

Gas Gauge
z sled
Did you fix the gas gauge problem? Is there any thing that we can do to the 03''s to make them work?
freddy
I hear ya pal, the fuel gauge on the 2003 REV really stinks! It just cant show the right amount of fuel, not any time... FIX THIS SKI-DOO!!!
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
We have addressed this issue for 2004. The gauge will be much more accurate, and we're providing a chart in the owner's manual that shows how many gallons are left at each gauge mark.

rev x models- shock valving?
mike
I had the chance to ride a rev x and it rides great thru the small bumps, but once I hit decent size bumps at 40-60 mph the whole sled would bottom out and after twenty minutes the center shock began to fade . I weight 175lbs and I went thru the same problems with my 2002 800x. Why dont doo offer the 440x shocks as an option? Buying an x package is alot more money and it is dissapointing knowing many people will have to spend the money to revalve when in fact if they had the high/low speed adjustable shocks like the 440 racer they would only have to stop and make an adjustment.Thanks
mxzx121
please make the 2004 X's stiff. I spent $500 cdn to make my 2003 X the way I wanted it. the revs are over priced as it is. I dont want to go and have to buy all new springs, shims and shock pistons to make my 2004 stiff. you say thay are ''just like the racers'' when in fact the shocks are all from the 2001 440's.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
Mike,
Yes, in 2003, the X-package calibration was not as firm as it could have been. But the shocks currently on the MX Z X-package ('03 & '04) are high quality, high capacity shocks.
We would guess that you are at the edge of the spectrum of aggressive riders. You ride HARD, so you need added capability.
You will not get that only from the adjustable C-36 shocks on the MX Zx 440. The adjusters on the C-36s have about a 15% range -- 7.5% higher, 7.5% lower. So trailside, the most damping you could add would be about 8%. We bet you would need more than that.
So you'll have to revalve - which is why there has been a market demand for rebuildable shocks from the factories - so you can tailor the ride to your needs.
Why don't we make them that stiff/aggressive from the factory? Most aggressive riders will be very happy with the '04 set-up - we verified these calibrations with many different riders. The X-package HPG shocks do have the capability to ride like you want, with the revalving if needed.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
mxzx121,
Rest assured, the X package for 2004 will be recalibrated stiffer than the 2003.

Ring issues, etc.
benji
Is Ski Doo going to address all of the problems they had with rings in the 600''s and 800''s also how about pressure in the crankcase which pushes the PTO Seals and how about the bearings walking on the cranks of the 800''s. Have you thought about using chrome rings instead of moly rings, as there has been problems with moly rings since the 440''s of the late 70''s and early 80''s. How about addressing the lean midrange issues of the sleds which create burn down in midrange.
Mighty RX-1
I guess I better spring order to get the 2 year engine warranty............
barrettbuilt
There has been alot of talk about loss of compression on the 600ho-molycoat flaking off the rings. Is there any truth to this or is it just internet dribble? Please respond in detail. Thanx. My sled has been perfect so far.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
The ring issue is very limited -- the Internet hype makes it seem much larger than it really is.
But to put your, and many other consumers', minds at ease, we are changing the ring material on the 600 HO's to a chrome ceramic composite material for 2004. We used these rings on many race sleds and this took care of all concerns.
For 2004, all HO engines have a PTO seal protector to prevent damage from a broken belt -- will also insure seals stay solidly in place.
Additionally, all HO engines come equipped with a wider PTO bearing that is held in place with a retaining ring.
All Series 3 engines run leaner in the midrange than past engine generations - and some people watching EGT's (Exhaust Gas Temperatures) may not be aware of these changes for fuel efficiency - but we are experiencing no problems in this area.
Hope that answers all your concerns.

Weight Gsx vs. Legend
powerrider
The Rev chasies are about 20 pound lighter than the zx´s.
Is it wrong no.´s in the spec.?
..or does the Gsx sled have the same weight as the Legend sleds???
Gk
The Legend
The Rev/GSX is about 10 to 15 lbs lighter than the loaded Legend series. Both ride and handle great depends on the type of sled riding you like to do.
Legend series is still lighter than most of the other manufactureres mx lines.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
All REV models from MX Z to GSX to Summit are from 20 to 35 lbs lighter than ZX models.
The issue is that the ZX models since their introduction gained weight for sound reduction, reinforcement, etc. But the dry weight in the older ZX chassis have obviously not been updated.
Thanks for the question.

Adrenaline REV Seat and Shocks
powerflow
I read that the seats are going to be roomier and more rounded is this only on the X or on the Adrenaline's also. I would also like to no if the shocks on the Adrenaline are rebuildable and if they are VRs and if so is it both rear skid shocks or only the rear one.
Thanks,
First time Ski-Doo Buyer
sledlover
Can you give us a comparison of seating position on the MXZ standard, X,
Renegade standard, X and Summit models. I read the Summit models
have a further back seating and handlebar position.
snopaw
sat on x-seat & standard seat at our 04 show. prefer standard seat. seems higher, slightly softer, wider seating area. would prefer standard seat on x-model.
sledstorm
You can get a std seat on an X package for an additional $199 during spring order.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
All REV platform-based sleds will be equipped with one of two seats.
The MX Z X-package and Summit seats are narrower and have a more rounded profile to ease the transition from side-to side and transitioning to your legs in boondocking.
All other MX Z and GSX sleds will have the same seat shape and dimensions as the 2003s.
We changed to HPG from HPG-VR because the HPGs better handle the bigger bumps. The HPG shocks on the MX Z Adrenaline are not rebuildable.
Thanks for your questions.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
sledlover,
The ergonomic positioning is nearly identical on all REV platform models. The main difference is handlebar positions.
The MX Z Trail, Adrenaline and Renegade have the lowest height bars.
The MX Z X-package and MX Z Renegade X are a bit higher, and can be adjusted in several ways.
Summit bars are bit higher than these, for better stand-up riding.
Obviously, the higher the bars, the farther back the handgrips can be. The Summit ends up moving you back about 2-3 inches because of the handle bars - but the seats are basically the same.

BEAVERTAIL
y2k700
Why was the beavertail done away with? Was it for cooling? speed? weight reduction?
sledstorm
Also, is there any plan to offer a conversion kit for 03 revs to put an X tunnel on them?
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
We eliminated the articulated snow flap for several reasons:
1) It saves about six pounds in weight.
2) Consumers and dealers alike were not ready for its radical appearance
3) Snow is evacuated more effectively
4) The REV-X (tilted) tunnel gives you a great area to store items.
We believe that the above benefits are important to you.
Sledstorm,
To properly install a tunnel extension on an 03 REV would require a new heat exchanger for adaquate cooling. Because the exchanger on a REV platform is an integral part of the chassis (actually, a structural member) it cannot be swapped out for a different one. So we won't have a kit available.

600 SDI
snopaw
how much hp will it be & how close in performance to 800 HO will it be in a renegade?
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
The 600HO SDI will produce the same horsepower as the carbureted version, with crisper throttle response and easier starting.
You'll gain about 20 horses with the 800HO in an MX Z.
Thanks for the questions.

Rotax 800 sdi....
powerrider
Nice work Bombo!
Wsa winners, x-games and no. 1 in the world (sold s-biles) etc.
The -04 line up is awesome. But You did a huge misstake not putting a 800 sdi in any of the Rev chassies!!???!. Strange.. You jave the best chassie and best engine o´n the market, why not put them togheter? The Gsx should have the Sdi and not the H.o. Atleast as an spring order. We are a lot of riders want to ride agressive, have a lot of power, and take our partner out sometimes. We think of the enviroment and economy aswell. So, please, make it...!
My question:
* Is it a new cooler system on the 600 sdi engine compare with the -03 600 h.o engine?
Gk
Mighty RX-1
I know my tag line says I'm getting the 600sdiHO but the more I think about it the more I'm leaning towards the 04 Warrior. Coming off 3 mach's in a row and an RX-1 this past season I don't think the 600 will satisfy me. I know you're probably thinking I'll just get the 05 800sdi when you guys eventually do put it in but I took too big of a loss getting out of my RX-1 to turn around again and do it with the warrior. Besides, if Yamaha addressed the few issues I had with the RX-1 with the warrior I'll probably just keep it. But the bottom line is I would like a lighter sled and the 800sdi in a REV would be the ticket!
sledstorm
I think the basic question here is why didn't you offer the 800 sdi in a rev?
The Legend
They would of had alot of left over 800 HO's if they would of offered the sdi in the rev there is no other reason same footprint and a far better motor better fuel milage and runs on regular. Hey I'll give up the 3 mph on top and run at 17 mpg versus 10 and high test. 1/3rd the oil consumption and the same midrange.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
This is the most difficult type of question we face.
Ideally, we would like to offer an infinite combination of models, packages, engine and colors. But we just can?t for many reasons, such as limited availability of key components and marketing costs.
So we use exhaustive consumer research, dealer feedback and years of experience to come up with what we feel are the most appealing combinations.
Thanks for your comment, and we'll consider an 800 SDI in a REV-based sled for the future.

What's the oil consumption on the sdi's
Mighty RX-1
How do they compare to the non sdi 2-strokes?
The Legend
1 quart to 3 for the normal 800 series 3.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
We're still in the final stages of calibration, so we do not have any numbers for publication yet.

Much top end loss with 1.25 track
Mighty RX-1
Being that If I want SDI in a REV and have to settle for the 600 is the 1.25 track too much track for it? Any idea how much top end will be lost? I would like to try and not stud for a change but feel if I''m rendered to the 1 inch I'll have to stud.
The Legend
You've got the tank on order it take about 3 mph off the top but it allows that motor to get the power to the snow quite a bit better, but the 136 on the SUMU should definelty get it to the snow as it pushes you through the corner.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
No doubt, the 600 HO SDI has plenty of power to run a 1.25-inch track. After all, we use 1.625-inch tracks on our 440cc MX Zx 440 LC stock race sleds!
You will probably lose a few MPH at top-end speed, due to the additional rotating mass and the larger lugs pumping through the air, but you will definitely gain traction for better acceleration.

3 cylinder?
sueperdave
I have noticed that there is room for a third cylinder in my REV chassis, have you? Man THAT would be sweet! All in favor, say aye!
F-350
aye!!!!!
y2k700
aye!!!
hotmxz
aaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyeeeeeeeeee !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I would buy one in a heart beat !!!!!!!!
clarky
I'd leave Cat for that!!!!
(but I'd have to keep the Thunderpuddy as back-up)
muzzy
please stop trying to tell us that nobody is buying tripples, we are not stupid. people want the latest and greatest technology and thats what the twins are getting cuz its cheaper for you to build them.. the manufactures hav'nt touched the tripples in 4 years, and you wonder why nobody buys them.
BRING BACK THE TRIPPLES.....
boondocker01
Howbout a fourtech 3 cyl supercharged thay got the non supercharged one in the Elete it might be coming, might be fun.
F-350
I would think that a 4 stroke with a blower would be too heavy.
Président
Since 2001 I drive MXZ X 800 and this year Rev 800 Before that since 1994 I drive Mach Z , The two cylinder is less smoot than the 3 cylinder. since 1985 I have by 15 Ski-doo
The Rev is the perfect machine for snocross , bad trail and Jump For the good trail here in Québec for long run 350 mi / day is tof for my Jambe et Genoux.
Un trois cylindre 960 cc ou un 4teck are in
your Miror direct injection ????
Gilbert
sueperdave
Want to increase the margin on your number one sales??? Make a SDI tripple REV!!!!!!!
CCRRRRRRRRAAACK, it's outa here.
We know you guys read snomobileforums, there is a huge pent-up demand for a awesome tripple, beat everyone to the punch.
Thanks for your time SKI-DOO, keep up the good work!
Ejam
I`VE BEEN A SKI-DOO RIDER ALL MY YEARS. DRIVE 70% TRAILS 30% LAKE RACING. HAVE SPENT TOO MUCH ON THE TWIN 800 TO GO FASTER BUT NOT ENOUGH FOR THE NON STOCK ZR900S AND EVEN SOME F7 FIRECATS. IT SUCKS TO GET BEAT BY A SLED THAT CAN JUST BOLT ON MORE POWER WITHOUT GOING INTO THE MOTOR. SO ENOUGH COMPLAINING. ****SKI DOO**** PLEASE PUT A TRIPLE IN SOMETHING AGAIN!!!!!!! THEM CATS ARE LOOKIN GOOD AND I DON`T WANNA DO IT BUT..........
snowtracker
Skidoo Rep,
Just wanted to add my name to the list of those wanting a triple in the Rev (or Rev- based Chassis). Yes, from market numbers the triple market has dried up, but the numbers don't tell the fact that the Chassis the triples were in became outdated, and people said ''no'' to the chassis, not the smoothness and power of the motor.
700-900 triple+Rev+SDI= Guaranteed Sale
Thanks,
-snowtracker
F-350
Well said snowtracker, I agree it was the chassis that became out dated and not the engine. Would the MachZ in the CK3 chassis sold better if it had an 800 twin instead of a triple??? NOWAY!!!!!!
bigcat
I'm with Clarky.
orpheus
Put a machz engine in a rev chassis and I'll buy one right now.
form3
This forum is called ''ask the engineers/Ski-Doo, so where are the ''answers'' to these questions? How 'bout it SKI-DOO? Let's have some answers!!!!
boondocker01
Yah right
Pilon800HO
Heh guys,
I was at Jackson hole on the weekend and there were several triple cylinder revs running in the modified classes... mind you they don't care where the pipes exit the hood!!!!
Coolest one I saw was a 700 triple triple with some nice polished pipes running out the right side above the side panel where the headlight pod/hood and body were supposed to be.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
Like many of you, we've seen several aftermarket iterations of this combination. But it will not fit AND meet the quality and noise standards that consumers like all of you expect from Bombardier.
We know that there are fans of triples out there ? especially here at Amsnow.com. But the market has moved away from triples.
We know this not only because of low sales, but because not enough consumers and dealers, in our exhaustive research, say they would buy them.
Yes, there is a group of highly vocal, enthusiast consumers who want triples -- but it is not big enough to justify the millions of dollars to develop these snowmobiles.
At this time, there just is not a strong enough business case to develop triples.

Cd of a REV
sueperdave
What is the Cd of the REV? Hows this compare to the ZX chassis?
bobpatterson
It's about 10% greater than a long haul truck and trailer. It's probably about 7-9% more than the ZX chassis. Their CFD guys in the airplane factory should be able to estimate it to within +- 15%. You should also ask whether there is more drag with a rider or without. Let's see what pierre says.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
For competitive reasons we won't share the exact CdA numbers. But we can tell you the two models are within 3% of each other with the REV being slightly higher in drag.
Thanks for your question.

800 REV Clutching
SFC
I have a 03'' 800 REV MXZ-X and there seems to be a general concern of 800 owners as to how the sled vary''s top operating RPM vs. top speed. The sled''s clutching seem to be very inconsistant. I''ve talked to several dealers and they have had me try a varity of different things. (change the bolt indexing, changing out the top cog belt to the 600 REV belt,ect.) My question is, has the factory had complains concerning this and if so has it been addressed for the 04 800s.
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
Yes our engineers are aware of this.
For 2004, we have improved the efficiency and calibration to insure optimum performance and consistent shifting of the secondary clutch. There will be a new spring, improved bushing material and improved assembly process to rectify this situation.

All-Yellow Rev
snowtracker
To Skidoo Rep.,
It seems you have abandoned you''re heritage, not offering an All-Yellow MXZ-Rev. In fact, all- yellow machines have totally disappeared from your lineup. Why so much emphasis on two-tone colors (on All your sleds except black)?
And why can''t you offer more color options during spring-break ordering (All-yellow REV Adrenaline as example, if not in the main production plans).
Did I mention I am interested in an all-yellow REV Adrenaline? (available during spring-break ordering). And yes, I would be willing to Pay $200.00 for the option.
Thank you,
-snowtracker
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
No, we are not abandoning our heritage.
Many MX Z and Summit models feature our trademark yellow. Our design department looks every year for new and exciting color combinations, plus we give consumers more choices than any other manufacturer. And two-tone options have been very popular the past two model years.
One of the great things about the REV platform is that it is easy to customize the coloration. In fact, you can make your MX Z Adrenaline all-yellow for right about $200 -- order the black and yellow option, then pick up a pair of yellow side panels and 2004 decals from your dealer. The side panels sell for $66.95 each, the decals should come in around $20 per side, and the reflective material on the exhaust side will run about $47. Installation is a snap.

GSX 1.25" track option during spring-break
snowtracker
To Skidoo Rep.,
The GSX is being Marketed as an MXZ with all the bells and whistles. Why no 1.25 track option for $200.00 like on the adrenaline/X models?
And could you please offer this(add it to the option list for spring-break)? I have talked to my dealer, and the same option will cost me over $400.00 in labor and materials.
Thank you,
-snowtracker
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
Our past experience and sales history shows that extreme cross country-style riders -- MX Z ditch bangers -- opt for 1.25-inch tracks more than any other segment. Because the GSX profile fits more with groomed trail riding, we don't anticipate enough demand for the 1.25-inch track to warrant a full Spring option.
We constantly evaluate market trends and will look at this option in the future. In the meantime, GSX riders wanting the 1.25-incher should discuss the track exchange program with their dealer.

Ring flaking/lost compression
snowtracker
To Skidoo Rep.,
I am seriously considering buying 2 new skidoos (Adrenaline 600HO SDI and GSX 600HO SDI).
I have very serious concerns about the durability of this engine (based on the reports of Ring-flaking/compression loss). I live in Florida, and take 3-4 long trips a season, and can't afford the risk of spending $18,000.00 on machines only to sit in motel room for a week. Many people have reported this problem, quite a few with 2 episodes of down-time(unsuccessful repairs, each weeks at a time). As you know, this recreation is limited to 8-12 weeks of riding, and losing ridetime based on a manufacturing defect is unacceptable.
Now my question: Have you made specific changes to correct this problem? If so, what have you done to correct this? And if you are doing nothing for 04 production to correct this, please say "nothing will be changed" so I can get my order in with a different manufacturer.
Thank you,
-snowtracker
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
Yes, this is mostly Internet hype.
For 2004 we will be changing the ring material on the 600 HO and 600 HO SDI to a chrome ceramic composite. This will take care of any concerns.
Enjoy your new Ski-Doo snowmobiles.

Electric Gas gauge as standard Equipment
snowtracker
To Skidoo Rep.,
With the integrated gas gauge on the REV proven to be unreliable, Why won't you just make an electric gas gauge standard? (As is across the Yamaha lineup and more common with the other 2 manufacturers). Especially on the higher-end sleds (All-liquid-cooled REVs).
I don't think anyone would argue against having a gauge that works, and is readable at night. The cost of having these "Dealer Installed" are much more expensive than the cost of adding it at production.
Or a message to your accountants: Add a Electric gauge package (Gas and Temp) as a factory option for spring-order.
Thank you for your time,
-snowtracker
Ski-Doo_Factory_Rep
We have addressed this issue for 2004. The gauge will be much more accurate, and we're providing a chart in the owner's manual that shows how many gallons are left at each gauge mark.
Regarding your point on mechanical vs. electric gauges, we use the lighter mechanical gauges on models where consumers and the media have made weight a priority, such as MX Z and Summit sleds. A properly calibrated mechanical gauge works as well as an electrical gauge - there's no advantage from one to the other.
Thanks for your question.