Historical Context:
The Trail Cat 3000 was part of Arctic Cat's lineup during a significant period of snowmobile development, focusing on trail riding and general recreational use.
Competitors Era:
Competed with models from Ski-Doo, Yamaha, Polaris, and other manufacturers of the late 1970s snowmobile era.
Vehicle Focus:
Designed for trail riding, offering a balance of performance and comfort for its time.
Manual Utility:
Empowers owners to perform detailed maintenance and repairs, reducing reliance on dealerships and saving costs.
Primary Coverage:
1979 Arctic Cat Trail Cat 3000 Snowmobile
Secondary Coverage:
General snowmobile maintenance and repair principles applicable to the era.
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds of pages (estimated based on description of comprehensive coverage and 100MB file size).
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual / Shop Manual
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system (if applicable), lubrication.
Transmission:
Drive clutch, driven clutch, chaincase, lubrication, repair, and adjustment.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, skis, track system, suspension components (front and rear), lubrication.
Electrical System:
Ignition system, lighting, wiring diagrams, starter system, battery, troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (identification, adjustment, overhaul), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank.
Braking System:
Brake caliper, brake disc, brake cable, adjustment and maintenance.
Bodywork And Controls:
Handlebars, controls, seat, body panels, decals, and minor body repairs.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, lubrication points, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, track tension adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, based on symptoms.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor components, including full rebuilds.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and clutch overhauls.
Adjustment:
Carburetor, clutch, brake, and track tension adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls).
Target Audience:
DIY owners, independent repair shops, factory-trained technicians.
Engine Type:
Two-stroke, piston-port, forced air-cooled (typical for Arctic Cat of this era, specific model details require deeper research).
Engine Configuration:
Likely a twin-cylinder, horizontal or vertical crankshaft configuration (specific to 3000cc class, which may refer to engine displacement in cubic centimeters or cubic inches, requiring verification).
Displacement:
Not explicitly stated, but '3000' in the model name may relate to engine displacement (e.g., 300cc class). Specific displacement needs to be confirmed from the manual.
Horsepower:
Expected to be in the range of 20-40 HP, typical for the class and era. Exact figures require manual verification.
Torque:
Not specified in provided information. Detailed torque specifications for engine components would be within the manual.
Carburetor Type:
Likely a Mikuni or Keihin carburetor, single or dual barrel. Specific model and jetting detailed in the manual.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil (specific ratio would be in the manual, typically 40:1 or 50:1).
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) or breaker point ignition, depending on the exact build. Spark plug gap and type would be specified.
Cooling Method:
Forced air cooling (fan-assisted).
Transmission Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) utilizing an intake drive clutch and a driven clutch, connected by a drive belt.
Optional Gearbox:
Not applicable for this type of snowmobile; the CVT is the primary drive system.
Chaincase Lubrication:
Chaincase lubrication is crucial for the drive system; the manual will specify oil type and capacity (likely gear oil).
Clutch Adjustment:
The manual will detail procedures for clutch alignment, spring tension, and roller/weight maintenance.
Length:
Not specified in provided information. Dimensions would be detailed in the manual.
Width:
Not specified in provided information. Dimensions would be detailed in the manual.
Height:
Not specified in provided information. Dimensions would be detailed in the manual.
Dry Weight:
Typically in the range of 350-450 lbs for this class of snowmobile. Exact weight is in the manual.
Track Dimensions:
Track width and length specifications would be present in the manual, critical for maintenance and replacement.
Ski Stance:
The distance between the skis, influencing handling. This specification would be in the manual.
Crash Testing:
Snowmobiles of this era were not subjected to standardized crash testing like automobiles. Safety features would be mechanical.
Throttle Control:
Handlebar-mounted throttle lever with return spring.
Braking System:
Disc or drum brake system operated by a handlebar lever. Manual details maintenance and adjustment.
Kill Switch:
Essential safety feature to immediately shut off the engine. Location and function are covered.
Track Guard:
Protective shielding for the track and suspension components.
Exhaust System:
Designed to direct exhaust gases away from the rider.
Oil Change:
Manual will specify recommended intervals for chaincase oil changes (e.g., annually or after a certain number of operating hours).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Scheduled replacement intervals based on usage or time. Manual will list correct spark plug type and gap.
Clutch Maintenance:
Regular inspection and cleaning of clutch sheaves, rollers, and springs are recommended. Manual provides specific intervals.
Track Tension:
Track tension adjustment is critical for performance and longevity. Manual will detail checks and adjustments.
Chaincase Oil:
The manual will specify the exact type and viscosity of gear oil for the chaincase (e.g., SAE 80W-90).
2-Stroke Oil Mix:
Recommended 2-stroke oil type (e.g., API-TC, JASO FD) and mixing ratio for fuel (e.g., 40:1, 50:1).
Carburetor Fouling:
Common with vintage snowmobiles due to fuel quality and storage; manual covers cleaning and rebuilding.
Clutch Wear:
Sheave wear, spring fatigue, and roller wear are common. Manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Track Loosening:
Track can loosen over time; manual provides adjustment procedures.
Ignition Component Failure:
Older CDI units or points can fail; manual aids in diagnosis and replacement.
Arctic Cat History:
Arctic Cat has a long history in snowmobile manufacturing, known for innovation and performance in winter sports. Founded by Edgar Hetteen in 1960.
Trail Cat Series:
The Trail Cat line represented Arctic Cat's commitment to the recreational trail rider, offering reliable and capable machines for general use.
Production Period:
The late 1970s was a dynamic period for snowmobiles, with manufacturers refining engine technology, suspension systems, and rider comfort. The 1979 model year reflects these advancements.
Manufacturing Location:
Arctic Cat snowmobiles are historically manufactured in the United States, primarily in Minnesota.
