Now that your snowmobile is ready to go, you are probably ready to get on it and drive. No book can tell you as much as your own practice driving. This chapter will give you some important pointers before you get on your machine: a pre-start checklist, starting the machine, and driving positions. After you read these pointers, you must practice them. Your experience plus constant attention will help you become a skillful, safe driver. Everyone must go through the "beginner stage." But even seasoned drivers do not know it all. It is a good idea to review these driving points every now and then.

Safe Operating Instructions
Before the snowmobile engine is started:

· Check weather forecasts for possible dangerous weather conditions.

· Dress properly. A helmet, eye protection devices, and adequate clothing, based on current and forecasted weather conditions, are a must. Avoid wearing long or loose scarves, shoelaces, etc., which could get caught in any moving parts of the snowmobile.

· Inform someone as to where you are going and when you plan to return.

· Arrange to ride with friends using the "buddy system.' Never ride alone.

· Equip the snowmobile with a survival kit and all necessary supplies. A flashlight, critical spare parts, and the tool kit should be carried with the snowmobile at all times.

· Complete the Pre-ride Inspection of the snowmobile.

· Make sure the snowmobile is headed away from people and obstacles before starting.

· Forbid new and inexperienced drivers to operate the snowmobile without proper instruction. Carefully supervise and control these individuals.

Fueling
Always check the fuel level before driving. Don't forget the return trip-do you have enough fuel for the hours of driving you have in mind?

· Some snowmobiles run on a gas/oil blend which the owner mixes. This is called the fuel mixture ratio. Other snowmobiles do not require the owner to do the mixing. The engine does it by itself. These vehicles run on an oil-injection system. Find out which type engine is in your snowmobile, If your vehicle does require a fuel mixture, follow the manufacturer's instructions for the right amounts. Refer to your owner's manual.

· Always use a separate clean container for mixing fuel.

· When pouring fuel into vehicle gas tank, use a clean funnel equipped with a fine screen. Make sure snowmobile is off before fueling.

· Do not pour lubricant or gasoline separately into the vehicle gas tank. Whenever it is necessary to mix fuel and lubricant at temperatures below 32 degrees F, the lubricant should be pre-diluted with gasoline so that it will mix better. Some oils are already prediluted.

· Never check fuel level with a match. The explosion could he fatal. Avoid overfilling. Wipe up spills.

Prestart Checklist
Before starting, do a safety check of these important things.

· Steering system: Does it move easily?

· Throttle: Does it move easily? (Press in and make sure throttle is not frozen in the "on" position.)

· Brakes: Do they stick or bind?

· Headlights and Taillights: Do they both work?

· Fuel level: Is it enough for the return trip?

· Nuts and bolts: Are they tightened?

· Track: Is it clear of snow and ice?

· Clothing: Are you dressed properly.

· Always tell someone where you are going and approximately when you expect to be back.

· What survival equipment are you taking?

· Never go alone, Always use the buddy system. Your life may depend on it.

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