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POLARIS GOVERNMENT & DEFENSE
HELP CENTER
08/28/2023

2021+ 650 INDY VR1 Chaincase Fluid Replacement

Required Tools and Supplies
6mm Allen SocketRatchet
Torque WrenchFluid Filler
Fluid Suction Device (Suction Method)T40 TORX® Socket (Front Cover Method)
10mm Socket (Front Cover Method)Drain Pan (Front Cover Method)
Prying Tool (Front Cover Method)Shop Rags
Safety GlassesNitrile Gloves

For more information on tools, visit the Tools and Fasteners Guide.

Always wear safety glasses and nitrile gloves when servicing your Polaris snowmobile. The pump and front cover methods can be used to change the chaincase fluid on a Polaris INDY VR1 with a 650 engine. To change the chaincase fluid, follow these steps:

1. Ensure the vehicle is on a flat, level surface.

2. Set the parking brake.

3. Clean the area around the fill plug. Placing a rag under the fill plug will help catch any escaping fluid.

4. Using a 6mm Allen socket, remove the fill plug and set it aside.

5. To extract the fluid using the pump method:

  • Safely elevate the front of the snowmobile with a floor jack or appropriate lift.
  • Insert the tube of the suction device into the fill hole. Direct the hose toward the bottom front area of the cover, away from the chain and sprocket.
  • Extract the oil using the suction device.
  • Then safely lower the snowmobile to fill the chaincase.

6. To drain the fluid using the front cover method: 

  • Remove the right side panel by turning the three quarter-turn latches. Pivot the panel away from the sled and pull out to remove.
  • Using a T40 TORX® socket, remove the fastener on the lower-right side of the console.
  • Using a pliers, remove the push rivet securing the lower-right portion of the console. 
  • Remove the push rivet underneath that secures the right fender to the footrest.
  • If the snowmobile is equipped with a battery, remove the battery and bracket. The full procedure can be found in 2021+ 650 INDY VR1 Battery Removal and Installation.  
  • Using a T40 TORX® socket, remove the two fasteners securing the lower fender to the chaincase.
  • Place a drain pan underneath the chaincase. Placing a rag in the bottom of the drain pan will help prevent the splashing of fluid.
  • Using a 10mm socket, loosen but do not remove the three lower chaincase cover fasteners.
  • Carefully pry the cover open on the cover tab. DO NOT insert a screwdriver or pry bar between the cover and chaincase, or seal damage may occur.
  • Allow the fluid to drain completely.
  • Reinstall the three cover fasteners. Torque to 11 ft-lbs (15 Nm).

7. Fill the chaincase through the fill plug hole until fluid reaches the bottom threads and begins to spill out. The fluid capacity is 10 ounces (296 ml). A 1-quart bottle of Polaris Synthetic Chaincase Lubricant is part number 2873105.

8. Clean any dirt or debris from the fill plug.

9. Inspect the O-ring on the plug and replace if necessary.

10. Reinstall the fill plug. Torque to 48 in-lbs (6 Nm).

11. Clean any residual fluid off the vehicle and properly dispose of the used fluid.

12. If using the front cover method, continue with the following steps:

  • Reinstall the fasteners securing the lower fender to the chaincase. Torque to 36 in-lbs (4 Nm).
  • If needed, reinstall the battery bracket and battery. Connect the positive cable first. 
  • Reinstall the push rivet underneath the console.
  • Install the push rivet on the lower-right portion of the console.
  • Reinstall the lower console fastener and torque until fully seated.
  • Reinstall the side panel by inserting the upper tab and pivoting in to engage the lower tab. 
  • Latch the three quarter-turn latches to secure the panel.

Looking for information on adjusting drive chain tension? Read 2021+ 650 INDY VR1 Drive Chain Tension Adjustment.

For more information, see your authorized Polaris Dealer. To find a dealer near you, use the Dealer Locator.
Maintenance tips, procedures and specifications can be found in your Owner's Manual.
To find diagrams and replacement part numbers, use the online parts catalog.

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