2008 Ski-Doo 800 X model 154 (two have started on fire)

[COH]

My friend and I both spring ordered 2008 800 X model 154s. Both machines have started on fire on their second day of riding.

Wondering if this has happened to others?

Here's what happened in both cases. Machine was running hard (likely very hot) and ended up getting stuck on a steep slope. In order to get "unstuck" the machine was rolled once to right itself (this is really the only way to get unstuck on a steep slope and we've done this literally hundreds of times before on 04, 05, 06, and 07 models.. we've owned new machines every year). Upon restarting ('08s have automatic start) the machine attempted unsuccessfully to turn over and backfired. Moments later a "woof" occured and flames began shooting out of the hoot vents (I'm not a mechanic and I couldn't get a super close look but it was on top of the engine area... perhaps near the airbox?).

In both cases the fire was extinguished by frantically removing the hood and side panels and hand bombing snow onto the flames.

In both cases the machines were drivable after.

The first occurence was reported to the dealer and the machine was repaired with little to no explanation of how and why the fire occured. The second machine occured 3 days ago (12/24) and the machine has not been taken in yet. I will be after new years.

I spoke to BRP today (12/27) and they stated that this will have to be addressed to them via the dealer so we'll see what our local Ski-doo dealer has to say about fire number two. This is not a freak incident in my opinion and I'm curious if others have had this happen?

Here's the recall link from BRP to certain 2008 owners... BRP is "conducting a voluntary safety recall of certain 2008 Ski-Doo models" on a "fuel tank leak hazard". The local dealer (good guys, don't get me wrong) stated that they were under the understanding that 2008 Everest and X model machines were not included in the recall. Perhaps others on here will have some additional information and insight.

http://www.ski-doo.com/NR/rdonlyres...EB-95FC99C142D2/0/20071019_SafetyRecallEN.pdf

Here's another link that includes the Summit Everest 154 800R in the recall - http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08515.html

thanks

 

[SylvanLaker]

crazy,, Mine got recalled but I know fuel leaks when she is on her side, but mines never caught yet. Now I'm scared.. Keep us posted on what your dealer tells you..

 

[RGM]

you should have keep cranking the engine so the the gas/flames would have got sucked into the engine instead of catching your airbox on fire.

 

[pgsledder]

in the past ive lit sleds on fire by backfiring through the carburators.

 

[skidoorulz]

Sounds to me that when it was upside down gas leaked out from the carb vents or tank vent and was ignited by a spark from the starter or something else. Why do you roll a sled over when stuck on a steep hill? I have never done it this way.

 

[AKboondocker]

I agree there are definetely times when rolling the sled over is the best and/or only option. I think most sleds leak a bit when upside down or sideways for too long. Crazy yours caught, hope it doesnt happen again.

 

[skibreeze]

What, now the xp thinks it's a turbo yami? That sucks no matter what.

Rolling a sled over is very effective at gettinng unstuck in certain situations, we just try to do it as fast as possible.