🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Arctic Cat

Model:

EXT 600

Year:

1997

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Arctic Cat EXT 600 was a performance-oriented snowmobile designed for the 1997 model year, offering a balance of power and handling for various snow conditions. This manual caters to owners and technicians seeking detailed repair and maintenance information for this specific model.

Competitive Analysis:

In the late 1990s snowmobile market, the EXT 600 competed against models from manufacturers like Ski-Doo, Polaris, and Yamaha. Its appeal was based on its 600cc class engine, typically a liquid-cooled twin-cylinder, and its chassis design which aimed for versatility.

Key Features:

This service manual provides extensive coverage of the 1997 Arctic Cat EXT 600, offering step-by-step repair procedures, detailed diagrams, and essential technical data, empowering users to maintain and repair their snowmobile effectively.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioner, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle, Engine Mechanical, Engine Lubrication System, Engine Cooling System, Exhaust System, Fuel System, Clutch, Automatic Transaxle, Manual Transaxle, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Road Wheels & Tyres, Brake System, Parking Brake System, Brake Control System, Power Steering System, Steering System, Seat Belts, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Body, Lock & Security System, Glasses, Window System, Roof, Exterior & Interior, Instrumental Panel, Seat, Air Conditioner, Wiring Diagrams, Starting & Charging System, Lighting System, Driver Information System, Wiper, Washer & Horn, Body Control System, LAN System, Audio Visual, Navigation & Telephone System, Power Supply, U-Joint Service Procedures, CV Joint Service Procedures, Timing Chain Service, Exhaust Service, General Information, Engine Mechanical System, Engine Electrical System, Emission Control System, Fuel System, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle System, Automatic Transaxle System, Driveshaft and Axle, Suspension System, Steering System, Restraint, Brake System, Body (Interior and Exterior), Body Electrical System, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, Lubrication & Maintenance, Suspension, Differential & Driveline, Vehicle Quick Reference, Brakes, Cooling, Audio/Video, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules, Engine Systems, Heated Systems, Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems

Page Count:

Hundreds or thousands of pages (as stated in product description).

Format:

PDF Download

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Lubrication, Engine Control, Cooling System, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Driveline, Axles (Front & Rear), Suspension (Front & Rear), Brakes (Hydraulic & Parking), Steering (Power & Manual), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Charging, Starting, Lighting, Accessories), Body & Chassis, HVAC, Restraint Systems (Seat Belts, SRS), Interior, Exterior, Audio Visual Systems.

Electrical System Details:

Detailed wiring diagrams, troubleshooting for starting and charging systems, lighting, ignition, instrumentation, and accessory circuits.

Chassis And Body Repair:

Covers frame inspection, suspension mounting points, body panel replacement, seat repair, windshield and fairing maintenance, and decal application.

Snowmobile Specific Systems:

Handlebar and steering column assembly, exhaust system routing, tunnel and chassis reinforcements, suspension linkage lubrication.

Procedures Included:

General maintenance, routine servicing, troubleshooting of common problems, engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission repair, brake system service, suspension alignment and repair, steering system diagnostics, electrical system troubleshooting and repair, cooling system maintenance, fuel system service, exhaust system repair, lubrication, chassis and body repair, interior component repair, accessory installation and repair.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Comprehensive troubleshooting section with step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all major vehicle systems.

Engine Disassembly Reassembly:

Detailed steps for engine removal, cylinder head removal, piston inspection and replacement, crankshaft service, bearing replacement, and engine reassembly with torque specifications.

Carburetor Rebuild And Adjustment:

Detailed guides for disassembling, cleaning, replacing parts (jets, needles, gaskets), and reassembling carburetors. Includes adjustment procedures for air/fuel mixture and idle speed.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to complete overhaul and diagnostics, including detailed diagrams, schematics, and specifications.

Technical Specifications:

Includes torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable), and component tolerances.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on specialized tools or diagnostic procedures required for accurate troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes (typically for PDF manuals)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable

Binding Type:

Digital Download (Printable)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, parallel twin-cylinder

Displacement:

Approximately 597cc (exact bore x stroke may vary, requires manual confirmation)

Bore X Stroke:

Specific measurements to be found in the manual (essential for engine rebuilding).

Horsepower:

Estimated 90-100 HP (specific figures available in manual)

Torque:

Estimated torque figures available in the manual, critical for performance tuning.

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (likely dual Mikuni carburetors, specific model in manual)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (octane rating to be specified in manual)

Carburetor Details:

Specific carburetor model (e.g., Mikuni VM series), jetting specifications, float bowl adjustment, and idle speed settings covered.

Oil Injection:

Automatic oil injection system (specific oil type and capacity in manual)

Ignition Timing:

Specifications and procedures for checking and adjusting ignition timing, if applicable.

Thermostat Operation:

Details on thermostat function, testing, and replacement.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with clutch system

Optional Transmission:

N/A (CVT was standard for this model)

Clutch Type:

Primary (Drive) and Secondary (Driven) Clutches

Gear Reduction:

Integrated gear reduction (details in manual)

Fluid Type:

Specific CVT fluid or gear oil type and capacity documented in manual

Clutch Calibration:

Information on primary and secondary clutch weights, spring tensions, and roller replacement for optimal performance and engagement.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear reduction ratios for the transmission.

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

Varies by specific EXT 600 sub-model, typically around 105-115 inches (refer to manual for exact specs)

Track Length And Width:

Specific dimensions for the snowmobile track, crucial for replacement and performance evaluation.

Ski Stance:

Width between the skis, important for handling and stability adjustments.

Dry Weight:

Typically in the range of 450-500 lbs (refer to manual for exact specs)

Fuel Capacity:

Approx. 9-10 gallons (refer to manual for exact specs)

Oil Capacity:

Specific oil injection tank capacity documented in manual

Payload Capacity:

N/A for snowmobiles, focus is on rider and accessory weight.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Snowmobiles of this era did not have formal NCAP or IIHS crash test ratings. Safety features focus on operational safety.

Active Safety Features:

Hydraulic disc brake system, tether cord/kill switch, aggressive track design for traction.

Passive Safety Features:

Ergonomic seating and handlebar design for rider control.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic instrument cluster with speedometer, tachometer, odometer, and indicator lights. No advanced infotainment features.

Driver Assistance:

No electronic driver assistance systems typical of modern vehicles.

Connectivity:

N/A

🔧 Maintenance

General Maintenance Intervals:

Annual or every 1,000 miles (whichever comes first), with specific component checks at shorter intervals (e.g., belt inspection every 500 miles, spark plug replacement every 1,000 miles). Detailed schedule in manual.

Engine Top End Rebuild:

Recommended intervals for top-end rebuilds (piston rings, cylinder inspection), typically based on mileage or hours of operation.

Shock ABSorber Maintenance:

Recommendations for shock absorber fluid changes or rebuilds based on usage.

Engine Oil Type:

2-stroke synthetic or semi-synthetic snowmobile oil (specific Arctic Cat branded oil or equivalent recommended, see manual for exact specifications and premix ratio if applicable).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water), specific type recommended in manual.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (confirm in manual).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Specific CVT fluid or gear oil as specified in the manual for the reduction gear.

Chaincase Lubricant:

Specific type and viscosity of lubricant for the chaincase/gearbox.

Common Issues:

Potential issues can include clutch wear, carburetor adjustments, crank seal leaks, exhaust gasket failures, and track wear. The manual provides diagnostic procedures for these and more.

Drive Belt Inspection:

Guidance on inspecting the drive belt for wear, cracks, and proper tension, with replacement part numbers.

Track Tension Adjustment:

Procedures for checking and adjusting track tension for optimal performance and longevity.

Tune Up Procedures:

Includes spark plug inspection/replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, carburetor synchronization and adjustment, fuel filter replacement, chaincase lubrication, and general inspection of all systems.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Arctic Cat has a long-standing history in snowmobile manufacturing, known for developing performance-oriented and innovative machines. Founded in 1960, the company has been a significant player in the powersports industry.

Model Evolution:

The EXT series was a popular line for Arctic Cat, emphasizing a balance of trail comfort and cross-country capability. The 600cc engine size was a common and effective displacement for this purpose.

Production Years:

The EXT 600 model line was produced through the late 1990s and early 2000s, with the 1997 model representing a specific iteration of the design.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Specific awards for the 1997 EXT 600 are not readily available in historical records, but Arctic Cat snowmobiles were generally well-regarded for their performance and durability within their respective classes.