Brakes
About Brakes
Most snowmobiles stop with a hydraulic disc brake working on the drivetrain rather than at the skis, and the parts that wear or fail are the pads, the brake line and the brake light switch. A lever that pulls farther than it used to, a squeal, or a sled that coasts longer than it should usually points to worn pads.
Pads are listed by make and by the model years they were built for, such as Polaris Indy Touring models from 2004 to 2015 or Yamaha Phazer models from 1999 to 2003, so match the year range and track length in the title to your sled. Most listings are sold as a pair.
Some are sintered or full-metal pads, which are made to cope with heat and wet, icy conditions, while organic pads are quieter and easier on the disc. Use the type your manual calls for. Extended brake lines, listed here as (+6) for Polaris and Arctic Cat, suit sleds with taller or relocated handlebars, and the brake light switch is the small part that lights the tail lamp when you pull the lever.
Brands in this category include Parts Unlimited, All Balls, SP1, Straightline Performance and Kimpex. Pick your sled in the Ride Finder at the top of the page to narrow the list to pads that fit. Brake work often leads to the rest of the drive area, so see Clutch & Drive Belts and Handlebars & Mirrors, or go back to Snowmobile for every group. Our guide on why a part did not fit shows how to confirm fit before you order.
FAQs on snowmobile brakes
How can I check snowmobile brake pads for wear?
Look at the thickness of the friction material in the caliper and compare it with the minimum in your service manual. Signs that pads are worn include a longer lever pull, a squeal or grinding noise, and a sled that takes longer to slow down. Metal-on-metal grinding can damage the disc, so replace pads before that point.
Are metal pads better than organic pads on a snowmobile?
Neither is better in every case. Sintered or full-metal pads handle heat and wet, icy conditions well, while organic pads are quieter and gentler on the disc. Choose the compound your manual specifies, or one the listing says is a direct replacement for your model.
Do I need to bleed the brakes after changing pads?
Usually not, as long as the hydraulic line was never opened. Push the caliper piston back carefully, fit the pads, then pump the lever until it feels firm before riding. If the lever stays soft, or air got into the system, bleed the brakes by the method in your manual.
What does an extended brake line do?
An extended line is longer than the stock hose, which gives the slack needed when the handlebars are raised or moved. The listing shows how much longer it is and which make it fits. Check that the line does not pull tight or kink when the bars are turned fully each way.
Will brake pads from a different model year fit my sled?
Do not assume so. Pads are made for a specific caliper and mounting, and different years or models of the same sled can use different parts. Match the make, model and year range in the listing to your machine before ordering.
