🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Bombardier Brand: Ski-Doo Year: 1987 Product Type: Snowmobile Repair Manual Product Format: Downloadable PDF 👋 Introduction Market Position Era: Mid-to-late 1980s performance and utility snowmobile market. Competitive Analysis Competitors At Time: Arctic Cat, Yamaha, Polaris were major competitors in the snowmobile industry during this period. Key Features Ski Doo Reputation: Ski-Doo was known for innovation and reliable Rotax engines. Manual Value Target Audience: DIY mechanics, snowmobile enthusiasts, vintage snowmobile restorers, and repair shops. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Models: Alpine 503, Citation LS E, Citation LS, Citation LS/E, Elan 250 Page Count Estimated Page Count: 300-500 Manual Type Type: Comprehensive Service & Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format Details: Digital PDF, downloadable, searchable text, printable pages 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Detailed troubleshooting, overhaul, and component repair for Rotax 503cc and other applicable Rotax engines. Fuel System: Carburetor adjustment and repair, fuel pump, fuel lines, and fuel tank service. Ignition System: CDI unit testing, stator and coil diagnosis, spark plug specifications, and timing procedures. Drive System: Clutch adjustment (primary and secondary), belt inspection and replacement, chaincase service, and gear lubrication. Suspension: Front and rear suspension component inspection, lubrication, shock absorber service, and track system adjustments. Brakes: Brake caliper service, hydraulic system bleeding, brake pad replacement, and parking brake adjustment. Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starter motor, battery service, and accessory electrical troubleshooting. Chassis And Body: Frame inspection, seat removal and installation, hood and panel service, and handlebar adjustments. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance tasks including lubrication, filter changes, and tune-ups. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts and common problem/solution guides for starting issues, performance problems, and electrical faults. Engine Repair: Piston and ring replacement, cylinder head service, crankshaft and bearing inspection, and gasket replacement. Carburetor Rebuild: Complete disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly instructions for applicable carburetors (e.g., Mikuni). Clutch Service: Centrifugal clutch maintenance, roller inspection, spring replacement, and alignment procedures. Track System Service: Track tension adjustment, idler wheel bearing checks, and bogie wheel lubrication. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic daily checks to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics. Diagnostic Tools: Procedures for using basic tools and diagnostic methods relevant to 1980s snowmobile technology. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Print Quality Quality: High-resolution, ensuring clear text and legible diagrams for printing. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital PDF download - intended for digital viewing or user printing) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Rotax 2-stroke, liquid or fan-cooled (model dependent). Displacement Alpine 503: 503cc Displacement Elan 250: 247cc Performance Horsepower Estimate 503Cc: Approx. 45-55 hp (model specific) Horsepower Estimate 250Cc: Approx. 25-35 hp (model specific) Fuel System Carburetion: Single or dual Mikuni VM series carburetors, depending on model and engine size. Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, or as specified by manufacturer). Oil System Oil Mixture: Pre-mix or oil injection system (model dependent). Recommended oil: Ski-Doo/Bombardier 2-stroke oil or equivalent. Cooling System Cooling Type: Liquid-cooled or fan-cooled (depending on model). 🔧 Transmission Standard Drive System: CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Comet or Ski-Doo branded clutches. Optional Gearbox: No traditional gearbox; CVT system provides infinite ratios. Features Clutch Engagement: Primary clutch engagement RPM and secondary clutch shift characteristics are critical for performance and belt life. Fluid Specifications Chaincase Oil: Specify SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil, or manufacturer-recommended lubricant. Capacity approximately 200-300ml. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Varies by model (e.g., Alpine typically longer for utility, Citation more compact). Width: Varies by model, typically 35-45 inches. Weights Dry Weight: Varies significantly by model (e.g., Elan ~350 lbs, Citation ~450 lbs, Alpine ~500+ lbs). Ski Stance: Typically 38-42 inches. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Testing: Snowmobiles from this era were not subject to formal crash safety ratings like automobiles. Active Features Braking System: Hydraulic disc brake, typically single caliper on the drive shaft. Engine Kill Switch: Standard handlebar-mounted kill switch for immediate engine shutdown. Passive Features Track Guard: Safety guards around the track drive system. Exhaust Heat Shielding: Shielding to protect riders from hot exhaust components. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Instrument Panel: Basic analog gauges: speedometer, tachometer, engine temperature (if applicable), and indicator lights. Driver Assistance Features: No modern driver assistance systems. Focus is on mechanical operation and rider control. Connectivity Features: No electronic connectivity features. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Pre Ride Inspection: Daily checks: track tension, fluid levels (coolant, oil if applicable), lights, brakes, controls. Clutch Inspection: Inspect primary and secondary clutches every 50-100 hours of operation or annually. Spark Plug Replacement: Replace spark plugs annually or every 100-150 hours, depending on usage and plug type. Belt Replacement: Replace drive belt every 2-3 seasons or if signs of wear (cracking, fraying) are present. Chaincase Lube Change: Change chaincase lubricant annually or every 100-150 hours. Fluid Specifications Coolant Type: For liquid-cooled models: Ethylene glycol-based...
Inspect primary and secondary clutches every 50-100 hours of operation or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Replace spark plugs annually or every 100-150 hours, depending on usage and plug type.
Belt Replacement:
Replace drive belt every 2-3 seasons or if signs of wear (cracking, fraying) are present.
Chaincase Lube Change:
Change chaincase lubricant annually or every 100-150 hours.
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
For liquid-cooled models: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Refer to manual for specific type.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (verify exact specification in manual).
Known Issues
Clutch Wear:
Wear on clutch rollers and bushings can lead to poor engagement and belt slippage.
Carburetor Fouling:
Carburetors can become fouled with old fuel or debris, leading to starting problems or rough running.
Exhaust Gaskets:
Exhaust manifold gaskets can degrade over time, causing leaks and performance issues.
Track Tension Issues:
Improper track tension can lead to premature wear on the track, suspension components, and driveshaft bearings.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bombardier Inc:
Bombardier Inc. is a Canadian conglomerate known for snowmobiles, ATVs, and aerospace.
Model Evolution
Citation Series:
The Citation line was a popular mid-range model, known for its balance of performance and comfort.
Alpine Series:
The Alpine was a more robust, utility-oriented model, often featuring a longer track and more carrying capacity.
Elan Series:
The Elan was an entry-level, lightweight, and agile snowmobile, often favored for its ease of handling.
Production
Factory Location:
Primarily manufactured in Valcourt, Quebec, Canada.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Standing:
Ski-Doo snowmobiles of this era were generally well-regarded for their performance and build quality, contributing to Ski-Doo's strong market presence.
Ratings
Consumer Reviews Era:
While formal ratings were less common, these models were generally praised for their reliability within their class.
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