2006-2008 Polaris Snowmobiles FS/FST Service Manual., Page 187Get this manual
PVT System Final Gearing
The final drive gear ratio plays an important role in how much vehicle load is transmitted back to the helixA tall gear ratio (lower numerical number) typically results in lower initial vehicle acceleration, but higher top-end vehicle speedA lower gear ratio (higher numerical number) typically results in higher initial vehicle acceleration, but lower top-end vehicle speedChoosing the proper gear ratio is important to overall drive system performanceWhen deciding on which gear ratio to use, the operator must factor in the decision where the snowmobile will be ridden, what type of riding will be encountered, and the level of performance the operator hopes to achieveGearing snowmobile too low for extended high-speed runs may cause damage to the drive belt and drive system, while gearing snowmobile too high for deep-snow, mountain use may cause premature belt and clutch wearTypically, it is recommended to gear the snowmobile with slightly higher ratio than the actual top speed the snowmobile will ever achieve