2004 Ski-Doo Racing Handbook, Page 59Get this manual
SECTION 03CHASSIS PREPARATION
Check steering linkages for binding andor corrosion Rubber blocks between skis and ski legs have too much preload at the rear (causing rear of skis to be pushed down too much) Lengthen limiter strap on center arm Increase center spring preload Decrease ski spring preload Too much carbide on ski runners4Adjusting the suspension for ride and comfortaThe rear springs of the rear suspension should be adjusted as follows: Fully extend the rear suspension Measure from the floor to the bottom of the rear grab handle (remember this dimension) Load the vehicle as it will be used (1 or people, saddlebags full of equipment, etc Again, measure from the floor to the bottom of the rear grab handleThis dimension should be 25 mm to 50 mm (1 in to in) less than the fully extended dimension If the vehicle settles more than 50 mm (2 in), increase the rear spring preload If the vehicle settles less than 25 mm (1 in), decrease the rear spring preload This is preliminary setting only! Increase and decrease the preload adjustments to fine tune for your preference The center spring and ski springs will have the most affect on handling, but if the preload is too stiff, it will produce harsh rideGeneral Tips If the spring and preload combination you are using exerts the right amount of pressure at full compression but has too much force at initial compression, try shorter, stiffer springThe shorter spring will not be preloaded as much and will "act" softer during initial compression, but will get stiffer as the suspension compressesConversely, if setup is good at initial compression but too stiff at full compression, then softer spring would be usedThe following chart can be used to determine how much force spring and preload combination will exert during compression