Polaris Dragon Saver Fix Kit: Smart Rebuild for the 800 Snowmobile
If you ride a 2008–2015 Polaris RMK, Dragon, or other models with the 800 engine, you’ve likely heard of piston slap, skirt failure, or premature power loss. These common problems plagued the original factory design—but the solution is here. Enter the Polaris Dragon Saver Fix Kit: a top-end rebuild solution designed to correct factory weaknesses, restore compression, and extend the life of your snowmobile’s engine.
What Is the Polaris Dragon Saver Fix Kit?
The term “Dragon Saver” refers to a series of aftermarket kits developed to address design flaws in Polaris 800 engines produced between 2008 and 2015. REV6 and other trusted manufacturers designed these rebuild kits to fix piston slap and skirt fatigue, which were common causes of engine failure in these sleds.
Unlike basic rebuilds, these kits include upgraded pistons, cylinder shims, gaskets, and essential components that change how the piston travels inside the cylinder, reducing mechanical wear and restoring performance.
Why the Original Polaris 800 Engine Design Needed Help
The early motors featured a cylinder design that didn’t fully support the piston at the bottom of its stroke. This lack of support caused the piston to “rock” or slap against the cylinder wall—especially under heavy throttle. The result? Rapid piston skirt wear, lost compression, and eventually engine failure.
The Dragon Saver Fix Kit resolves this issue with smarter engineering and stronger materials.
How the Fix Kit Solves the Problem
- Cylinder Shim Plate: A spacer is added under the cylinder to raise its height. This changes the piston’s bottom-dead-center travel and reduces its rocking motion.
- Upgraded Pistons: REV6 utilizes forged or silicone alloy pistons, designed to resist expansion under heat, prevent seizing, and deliver improved performance under stress.
- Increased Compression: The shim plus improved piston design often raises compression slightly, resulting in a snappier throttle response and improved power delivery.
What’s Included in a REV6 Fix Kit?
The contents may vary slightly depending on your model year, but here’s what you can expect from a complete fix kit like the 2012 Pro RMK 800 Complete Fix Kit:
- 2 forged piston kits (rings, wrist pins, circlips)
- 2 upper rod bearings
- Top-end gasket & oil seal set
- Aluminum spacer shim plate + matching base gasket
- Extended cylinder head bolts and dowel pins
We also carry kits for other years, including the 2013–2015 Pro RMK 800 Fix Kit and the 2011 RMK 800 Top-End Kit. Find additional Polaris snowmobile models here.
Benefits of Installing a Fix Kit
- Improved Durability: Reduces piston wear and skirt damage under extreme loads and throttle.
- Restored Power: Eliminates loss of compression and throttle bog caused by worn piston geometry.
- Better Cold Starts: Tighter tolerances and stronger sealing deliver reliable performance—even in freezing temps.
- Peace of Mind: Rebuilding with precision parts lowers the risk of a blown engine mid-ride.
Installation Tips and Best Practices
To get the best results from your Polaris fix kit, follow these expert tips:
- Inspect Your Cylinders: If your cylinder walls are too worn or scratched, even the best kit won’t save the build. We recommend honing or replacing damaged cylinders.
- Use Proper Torque Specs: Make sure to torque bolts according to factory specs to avoid warping or sealing issues.
- Don’t Skimp on Fuel: Higher compression may require better fuel. Always tune accordingly to avoid detonation.
- Break It In Right: Proper engine break-in is essential. Follow our guidelines in the REV6 Help Center.
Why Choose REV6 for Your Fix Kit?
Unlike generic kits, REV6 rebuild kits are engineered by experts who rebuild and test engines in real-world riding conditions. We use CNC-machined components, forged pistons, and carefully selected gaskets that meet or exceed OEM tolerances.
Check out our full RMK Engine Rebuild Kit if you need a more complete solution beyond just the top end.
Take Action Before Winter Hits
Don’t wait until your sled fails in the backcountry. Whether you’re a DIY mechanic or shop owner, rebuilding your Polaris 800 CFI motor with a Dragon Saver Fix Kit ensures you’ll have a reliable, powerful sled when the snow flies.
Contact us for help choosing the right kit for your year and model, or browse our Warranty Info and FAQs to learn more before you start your rebuild.
