A reader asks: I’ve got a fleet of restored snowmobiles from the 1970’s and early 1980’s. Regarding 2-stroke oil, I see that there is now a Polaris Vintage 2-Stroke Oil available. Would this product be my best choice?
Our answer: First off, we have no data or test information on Polaris Vintage 2-Stroke Oil. We are sure that it is a perfectly competent product. However, it is a conventional (or mineral) two-cycle oil. We are huge advocates of synthetic oil in two-stroke engines. Do note that older two-stroke engines are 100% compatible with synthetic oil. In fact, the advantages of synthetic oil in classic 2-stroke motors are too numerous to overlook.
There are no specifications listed for the Polaris Vintage Oil. However, we can extrapolate a few things from their product description. The Polaris product page does note that the Vintage 2-Stroke Oil has a heavier viscosity than regular two-cycle oil. Therefore, we can assume that the oil is formulated this way for older engines with some wear and looser tolerances. Be aware that a heavy mineral oil may not flow very quickly in oil-injected engines on very cold days.
Polaris also mentions that this Vintage Oil should not be used in snowmobile engines equipped with variable exhaust power valves. This suggests that carbon deposit build-up is a concern.
Polaris does add a fuel stabilizer component to this Vintage 2-Stroke Oil formula. This is a nice touch. If a two-cycle oil does not offer gasoline preservation, we strongly advocate adding a splash of stabilizer additive to every batch of fuel.
Is Synthetic Oil Better For Vintage 2-Stroke Engines?
We contend that a full-synthetic oil is the most cost-effective upgrade for any older 2-stroke motor. A well-formulated synthetic oil will provide robust wear-control and improved friction reduction. In our opinion, this is a superior approach over simply ratcheting up viscosity for older engines.
AMSOIL’s Synthetic Option For Vintage 2-Stroke Engines
Excellent wear-control from synthetic base oils and robust additives
Outstanding cold-flow properties over mineral oil. Flows down to -63F
Burns clean for low exhaust smoke
Can be used in older engines with variable exhaust power valves
Delivers cleaner operation with less combustion chamber and exhaust port deposits
Contains ingredients that fight internal rust and corrosion
Premix or oil-injection compatible
Priced competitively with OEM mineral 2-stroke oils
Conclusion
In conclusion, older 2-stroke engines do not require a specialized 2-cycle oil. A good synthetic 2-stroke oil will provide maximum wear protection, cleaner operation and offer a performance upgrade.
Here are the highlights for Arctic Cat’s 2022 snowmobile line-up. We will also include a synthetic oil suggestion for each model and motor option.
We can offer AMSOIL Synthetic Oils for all model-year Arctic Cat snowmobiles at wholesale prices in Canada and the US. Enjoy free shipping on qualified orders. Contact us for pricing using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.
2022 Arctic Cat Snowmobile Highlights
New Arctic Cat Clutch System
Arctic Cat has introduced a brand-new clutch assembly system for all 2022 full-sized models. The new “Adapt CVT” clutch system is designed and manufactured by Arctic Cat. The main advantage of the new Adapt CVT clutch is lower weight. This results in faster throttle response. The mid-sized Blast series models do not receive this new clutch system.
More Blast Models
The Blast series has received two more models. New is the Blast XR cross-over sled and the Blast XR Touring model. The Blast models have a mid-sized chassis and 400cc, single cylinder engine.
Power Steering Added To ZR 9000 Thundercat
For 2022, Arctic Cat has added power steering to what they suggest is the fastest production sled on the market. The turbo-charged ZR 9000 Thundercat is now equipped with variable assist electric power steering. This addition helps riders maneuver this beast at lower speeds and on tight trails.
AMSOIL Synthetic Oils For Arctic Cat Snowmobile Engines
AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil
Arctic Cat C-TEC2 engines use very little oil compared to traditional two-stroke motors. Interceptor delivers proven protection in C-TEC2 engines. It offers world-class wear control and superb APV valve cleaning power. Interceptor is also a premium choice for Blast 4000 engines and previous non-C-TEC2 motors. This 100% synthetic oil replaces Arctic Cat C-TEC2 Synthetic Oil and Arctic Cat APV Synthetic 2-Cycle Oil.
AMSOIL offers their own snowmobile warranty for those using AMSOIL Interceptor in 2022 Arctic Cat models.
AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil
Why bother with the conventional Arctic Cat Formula 50 Mineral 2-Stroke Oil? Upgrade to a full-synthetic product at a similar price. AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil delivers improved cold-weather performance, lower smoke and clean engine internals. Ideal for Arctic Cat 565cc fan-cooled engines and also older engines with APV valves.
AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil
AMSOIL offers the ultimate 4-stroke snowmobile engine oil. Ideal for all Arctic Cat 4-stroke motors, including the turbocharged ZR 9000 Thundercat engine. This elite full-synthetic formula withstands extreme heat and loads while flowing down to -60°F.
2022 Arctic Cat Snowmobile Models
Here are all 2022 Arctic Cat snowmobile models along with the correct AMSOIL synthetic oil product for each 2-stroke or 4-stroke engine option.
Blast 4000 (all models), 397cc l/c- Interceptor
M 8000 Hardcore Alpha One (all models), 794cc l/c- Interceptor
M 8000 Mountain Cat Alpha One (all models), 794cc l/c- Interceptor
Riot 6000 (all models), 599cc l/c- Interceptor
Riot 8000 (all models), 794cc l/c- Interceptor
ZR 6000 RR/Limited, 599cc l/c- Interceptor
ZR 8000 RR/Limited/Limited with ATAC, 794cc l/c- Interceptor
ZR 9000 Thundercat (all models) , 998cc l/c turbo- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
Norseman 8000, 794cc l/c- Interceptor
ZR 120 123cc f/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
ZR 200 192cc f/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
Questions? Contact us using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.
Let’s look at the changes for the 2022 Polaris snowmobile lineup. We will also offer the correct synthetic oil option for every ’22 Polaris model.
We offer world-class AMSOIL synthetic replacements for Polaris snowmobile oils. AMSOIL is available here at wholesale prices in the US and Canada. There is free shipping on qualified orders. Contact us for a wholesale price list using the form on this page.
2022 Polaris Snowmobile Highlights
More Matryx Sleds
For ’22, Polaris has migrated their mountain/deep-snow models to their latest Matryx platform. Polaris has added a whopping 22 models to their line-up this year. If your riding is inclined toward deep snow or climbing, Polaris has a model that will be right in your wheelhouse.
New Turbo-Charged Engine
High-altitudes are the bane of naturally aspirated motors. As the air gets thinner, horsepower plummets. Polaris offers the new Patriot Boost engine to counteract this issue. Patriot Boost is a turbo-charged, 850cc 2-stroke motor. It is said to deliver 50% more horsepower at 10,000 feet over the naturally aspirated 850 Patriot motor. The Patriot Boost 850 engine can be found on select Pro-RMK mountain sleds.
AMSOIL Synthetic Oil Products For 2022 Polaris Snowmobiles
AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil
Interceptor is the ultimate replacement for Polaris VES Extreme Full-Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil or Polaris VES Full-Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil. Ideal for Polaris 650 and 850 Patriot, as well as the 850 Patriot Boost turbo-charged engine. Also superb in the 800 Cleanfire and 600 Cleanfire engines. Interceptor is loaded with detergents to keep Polaris VES valves clean. It delivers industry-leading performance and wear protection.
AMSOIL offers their own snowmobile warranty for those using Interceptor in 2022 Polaris models.
AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil
This is a full-synthetic upgrade over the Polaris Blue Synthetic-Blend 2-Stroke Oil or Polaris Vintage 2-Stroke Snowmobile Oil. AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil may have a value price tag. But it delivers big performance, clean operation, low-smoke and outstanding wear control. This product is ideal for the 550cc fan-cooled engine. Also a superb option for older engines.
AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40 Synthetic Oil
A 100% synthetic oil that is ideal for any 4-stroke Polaris snowmobile engine. It provides a cold-pour-point of -51°C (-60°F). This 0W-40 delivers powerful wear control over a vast temperature spectrum. Ideal for turbo and non-turbo motors.
Let’s look at the highlights of Ski-Doo’s 2022 snowmobile product line. We will also offer the correct oil suggestion for each model and engine-type.
2022 Ski-Doo Product Line Highlights
Return Of Mach Z
The Mach Z model is a legendary name from Ski-Doo’s past. Mach Z is made for one thing and one thing only. That is raw speed. This is a limited-edition model for 2022 only. Mach Z is powered by the new 900 ACE Turbo R engine with 180 horsepower. It also boasts a lowered stance for speed, launch control, the new Smart Shox suspension system.
New 900 ACE Turbo “R” Engine
For 2022, Ski-Doo is offering a new mega-horsepower 4-stroke engine option. The new Rotax ACE 900 Turbo R delivers a whopping 180-horsepower. This engine delivers 30-horsepower more than the regular iteration of the ACE 900 Turbo engine. The extra ponies are found through bigger injectors, new intake and exhaust as well as increased turbocharger boost. The ACE 900 Turbo R motor is found in the flagship Mach Z as well as select Renegade and Grand Touring models.
Semi-Active Suspension System
For ’22, Ski-Doo has introduced the industry’s first semi-active suspension system. The system is called Smart-Shox. This Smart-Shox system was developed in cooperation with KYB. How does it work? Five sensors are located throughout the chassis. These sensors send information to the front and rear suspension 50 times per second. This allows for optimum compression and rebound under all riding conditions in real time.
AMSOIL Synthetic Oils For 2022 Ski-Doo Snowmobile Models
AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil
AMSOIL Interceptor is long-recognized as the ideal injector oil for the Ski-Doo/Rotax E-TEC engine. Interceptor is a popular replacement for Ski-Doo/XPS 2T E-TEC Full-Synthetic Oil. It meets the “JASO FD” standard. Interceptor is formulated for ultra-clean RAVE valves and engine internals. It provides legendary wear protection and performance. Also ideal for turbo-charged 850 E-TEC engines.
AMSOIL offers their own snowmobile warranty for new Ski-Doo engines using Interceptor.
AMSOIL Synthetic Injector Oil
AMSOIL’s full-synthetic substitute for Ski-Doo/XPS 2T Snowmobile Synthetic Oil, XPS 2T Snowmobile Synthetic-Blend Oil and XPS 2T Snowmobile Premium Mineral Oil. It provides an upgrade in performance and protection at a value-price. A great choice for the 600cc EFI engine and the 550cc fan-cooled engines.
AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke 0W-40 Synthetic Oil
A superb choice for all Rotax 4-stroke engines. Provides world-class protection for ACE 600 and ACE 900, ACE 900 Turbo and ACE 900 Turbo R motors. A great substitute for XPS 4T 0W-40 Synthetic Oil. Pours down to minus 60°F for fast start-up protection. Withstands the extreme heat of turbochargers and the heavy loads of deep snow and long climbs.
Here are the 2022 Ski-Doo snowmobile models along with an AMSOIL synthetic oil recommendation for each engine option.
A reader asks: I’m currently running Polaris Blue 2-Stroke Oil in my snowmobile. Looking at switching to AMSOIL Synthetic Injector Oil. As Polaris Blue is a mineral oil and the AMSOIL is a synthetic oil, do I have to completely empty the oil tank? Would there be any problems with mixing these oils?
Our answer: All types of two-stroke injector oils can be mixed. There will not be any compatibility issues. All brands of synthetic, semi-synthetic and conventional 2-cycle oils are compatible.
Does A 2-Stroke Oil Injector Tank Need To Be Emptied When Switching Brands?
You do not have to complete empty your injector oil reservoir when switching oil types or brands. Simply run the oil level down to a safe point and pour the new oil on top.
While all two-stroke oils are compatible, they are not created equal. High-quality synthetic 2-stroke injector oils will create less exhaust smoke, offer improved performance, improved wear control and cleaner engine internals.
Therefore, when switching brands, you may note different performance characteristics when the new oil comes on-stream.
AMSOIL has released a brand-new coolant formulated for high-performance powersport engines. AMSOIL Powersports Antifreeze And Coolant is a pre-mixed ethylene glycol formula. It is compatible with all of your toys.
Why Did AMSOIL Make A Powersports Coolant Product?
This product was conceived to provide protection, high-performance and significant convenience. It is designed to protect engines against the rigors of extreme heat and extended periods of heavy loads. This coolant is also fortified with strong anti-corrosion additives for very long life. It can stay in service for up to five years.
As for convenience, it comes pre-mixed, so you do not have to add water. It is packaged in a portable one-quart bottle for easy pouring.
Suitable Applications For AMSOIL Powersports Antifreeze And Coolant
This product is compatible with all powersports cooling system components and OEM coolants. Therefore, it can be used for topping-up existing coolant or for total system flushes.
Suitable applications include:
Motorcycle, Dirt Bike, Motocross
Snowmobile
ATV, UTV, Side-By-Side
Personal Watercraft
Kart
Any liquid-cooled small engine
Where Can I Buy AMSOIL Powersports Antifreeze And Coolant?
Oildepot can sell AMSOIL Powersports Antifreeze And Coolant at wholesale prices in Canada and the US. Request a price list using the form on this page.
Arctic Cat’s most significant change for 2021 is the introduction of the “Blast” 4000 series of mid-sized snowmobiles. Blast models are powered by a 397cc, 2-stroke, single-cylinder engine. This engine features electronic-fuel-injection and a 3-stage APV exhaust valve. Blast motors generate about 70-horsepower. There is a Blast 4000 “M” (mountain), “ZR” (trail) and “LT” (utility) version of this series.
We can offer AMSOIL Synthetic Oils for Arctic Cat snowmobiles at wholesale prices in Canada and the US. There is free shipping on qualified orders. Contact us for pricing using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.
AMSOIL Synthetic Oils For Arctic Cat Snowmobile Engines
AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil
An ultra-premium oil for the 600cc and 800cc C-TEC2 engines. Also perfect for the new Blast Series 400cc engine. Interceptor contains powerful detergents that fight deposits in APV valves. Delivers industry-leading performance and wear protection.
AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil
A full-synthetic substitute for Arctic Cat Formula 50 Mineral 2-Stroke Oil. This oil is a terrific upgrade for the Arctic Cat 565cc fan-cooled engines of previous model-years. AMSOIL Injector Oil offers robust wear protection and clean engine internals at a great price.
AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil
The perfect 0W-40 substitute for Arctic Cat C-TEC4 Synthetic 4-Stroke Engine Oil. A safe choice for all turbo and non-turbo 4-stroke motors. Designed to withstand extreme heat and hard operation. Flows quickly in arctic conditions.
2021 Arctic Cat Snowmobiles With AMSOIL Synthetic Oil Suggestion
Here is the 2021 Arctic snowmobile line-up along with the proper AMSOIL synthetic oil for each engine option.
Blast M 4000 146 2.0, 397cc l/c- Interceptor
M 8000 Hardcore Alpha One (all models), 794cc l/c- Interceptor
M 8000 Mountain Cat Alpha One (all models), 794cc l/c- Interceptor
Here are the major highlights for Polaris’s 2021 snowmobile lineup. We will also offer a synthetic oil suggestion for every 2021 Polaris model.
We can offer high-quality AMSOIL synthetic substitutes for Polaris snowmobile oil. AMSOIL products can be purchased at wholesale prices in Canada and the US. We also offer free shipping on qualified orders.
Contact us for a wholesale price list using the form on this page.
2021 Polaris Snowmobile Highlights
New Polaris 650cc Engine
The new 650cc Patriot motor debuts for 2021. It is an option for some Switchback Assault and Indy models. This new high-performance engine offers 10% more power and 14% more torque over the Liberty 600 engine. It also boasts significantly improved fuel economy and less oil consumption. This new 650 is built on the lower end of the Patriot 850 engine.
New “Matryx” Platform For Indy VR1 And Switchback Assault 146
Polaris has released a brand-new chassis for first time since the AXYS chassis debuted in 2015. The new Matryx platform graces the Indy VR1 and Switchback Assault 146 models. Matryx is designed to deliver a lower center of gravity, sharper handling and improved front and rear suspension. Polaris also endeavored to improve rider ergonomics and comfort with this platform.
QuickDrive2 Drive System
Quickdrive2 is a new belt-drive system that replaces the conventional chaincase system. It is found on Polaris RMK mountain sleds. The advantages of this belt-drive concept are reduced weight and improved responsiveness in technical riding situations.
AMSOIL Synthetic Oil Products For 2021 Polaris Snowmobiles
AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil
The industry’s best replacement for Polaris VES Extreme Full-Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil and Polaris VES Full-Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil. A perfect match for Polaris 650 and 850 Patriot motors, as well as the 800 Cleanfire and 600 Cleanfire engines. Formulated to keep Polaris VES valves clean and provide the utmost in performance and wear protection.
AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil
This product delivers a 100% synthetic upgrade over the semi-synthetic Polaris Blue 2-Stroke Oil. We can offer AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil at a similar price to Polaris Blue.
AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil delivers clean performance and top-notch engine protection. A great fit for the Polaris 550cc fan-cooled engine or most any utility or recreational snowmobile.
AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40 Synthetic Oil
The ultimate engine oil for any four-stroke Polaris snowmobile engine. This full-synthetic 0W-40 has a cold-pour-point of -51°C (-60°F). Provides robust wear protection. Compatible with turbo and non-turbo engines.
2021 Polaris Snowmobile Models With AMSOIL Synthetic Oil Suggestion
In this post, we will discuss the major changes for Ski-Doo’s 2021 snowmobile lineup. We will also list every ’21 Ski-Doo model and offer our oil recommendation for each.
2021 Ski-Doo Model Highlights
New Entry-Level 600 EFI 2-Stroke Engine
A brand-new entry-level Ski-Doo engine debuts for the 2021 season. This new electric-fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, 600cc twin-cylinder 2-stroke engine can be found in the “Sport” version of many models. It is a basic, “no-frills” engine with no variable-exhaust-power-valves and delivers 85 horsepower.
This engine replaces the previous carb 600 and 550 fan-cooled engines. All Ski-Doo engines are now fuel-injected.
Turbo Option For 850 E-TEC On Mountain Sleds
Ski-Doo debuts an industry-first for 2021. They are offering the first production two-stroke turbo-charger option for their mountain sleds. A turbo-charger is available for their 850 E-TEC engine in the Freeride and Summit lines.
This turbo is not designed to provide a horsepower boost at sea-level. The main motivation of the design is to eliminate power-loss at altitude. Once the engines sensors detect power-loss at altitude, the turbo compensates. This provides a massive advantage over naturally-aspirated engines.
Suspension Upgrade For MXZ And Renegade
Some MXZ and Renegade models receive upgraded front and rear suspension this season.
The new rear suspension is called rMotion X. The new geometry of this system provides improved handling, increased travel and more adjustability.
The front system is called RAS X. This new configuration offers longer “A” arms and a longer shock over the previous RAS system. The result is more precision and control in cornering and improved bump absorption.
REV Gen4 Platform Now On All Models
For 2021, the Skandic and Tundra models now ride on the REV Gen4 platform. All Ski-Doo models are now built on this chassis.
AMSOIL Synthetic Oils For 2021 Ski-Doo Snowmobile Models
AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil
Interceptor is the ultimate Ski-Doo E-TEC injector oil. A tested and proven substitute for BRP 2T E-TEC Full-Synthetic Oil. Interceptor flows quickly in cold weather and protects from extreme heat. It keeps power-valves clean over long intervals. This oil provides the world-class performance and protection expected for E-TEC motors. Also suitable for the new 2021 E-TEC 850 Turbo engine. Interceptor meets the JASO FD specification required for Ski-Doo E-TEC motors.
AMSOIL Synthetic Injector Oil
An ideal oil for the new 600 EFI engine. Also perfect for the previous 550 fan-cooled engines. A 100%-synthetic substitute for BRP XPS 2T Carb Premium Mineral Oil. Offers low-smoke operation and clean engine internals. This Synthetic Injector Oil provides outstanding performance and protection at a great price.
AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke 0W-40 Synthetic Oil
An outstanding motor oil for Ski-Doo ACE 600 and 900 four-stroke engines (including turbos). It is an ideal replacement for Ski-Doo’s XPS 4T 0W-40 Synthetic Oil. This full-synthetic 0W-40 flows fast in arctic conditions. It also provides steady protection in extreme heat. A nice bonus is strong rust/corrosion protection of engine internals during the off-season.
2021 Ski-Doo Models With AMSOIL Synthetic Oil Recommendation
Here are all 2021 Ski-Doo snowmobiles along with the correct AMSOIL synthetic oil recommendation for each model and engine option.
Below is a vintage snowmobile commercial from 1977. It features the Sno-Jet Kawasaki SST 440. Kawasaki purchased the Sno-Jet snowmobile company in 1976. For the 1977 season, they branded the models as “Sno-Jet Kawasaki”. These 1977 models were very similar to the Sno-Jet machines from the previous year.
While the announcer is touting the performance capabilities of this snowmobile, note that this 1977 SST 440 did not use a Kawasaki engine. Yamaha motors were actually under the hoods of the SST models. Also note that the video labels this commercial from 1976. It may have aired in late 1976, but the snowmobile is from the 1977 model-year.
Specifications For The 1977 Sno-Jet Kawasaki SST 440
