2010-2012 PRO-RIDE RUSH Switchback RMK Service Manual, Page 407Get this manual
Battery and Electrical Systems Hand Warmer Diagnostics
There are two types of hand warmer element pads used on Polaris snowmobilesOne version is used on steel painted handlebars and touring model rear passenger grab bars, while the other is used on aluminum (Pro Taper) handlebarsThe difference between the two hand warmer element pads is in the resistance valuesA lower resistance element pad is used on aluminum bars because aluminum dissipates heat faster than steelA common misconception with Polaris hand warmer elements is the higher resistance circuit is the high temperature elementIn reality, the hand warmer circuit with the least amount of resistance will flow more current, and thus create more heatThis is an important fact that must be taken into consideration when performing resistance checks on set of hand warmersFor example, if customer has concern that the left hand warmer appears to be cooler than the right, the technician should compare the resistance readings of each pad to the specifications, and then between the left and right padsIf the resistance of the left pad is significantly higher than that of the right, more current will flow to the right sideWhile more common reasons for this can be attributed to how the customer holds the bar in their hands (fingers on brake lever and not wrapped around grip, etc, there may be instances where comparing the left and right hand warmer resistance values may resolve the customer's concernAnother issue is when one or both of the element circuits shorts to the handlebar itselfThis can occur either because the pad was improperly installed, solder breaks, or if the grip moves on the bar