Market Position:
The 1996 Arctic Cat Thunder Cat Mountain Cat ZRT 800 was positioned as a high-performance, premium snowmobile designed for aggressive trail riding and mountain traversing. It was a flagship model known for its powerful engine and advanced suspension.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other top-tier performance snowmobiles of the era from manufacturers like Ski-Doo (Mach Z), Yamaha (Vmax series), and Polaris (RXL series), often differentiating itself with its powerful twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine and long-travel suspension.
Key Features:
Powerful 800cc liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine, advanced front and rear suspension systems for superior handling and comfort, lightweight chassis, and aggressive styling.
Chassis Design:
Lightweight and robust chassis designed for optimal weight distribution and handling in varied snow conditions.
Coverage Areas:
All models, engines, trim, and transmission types
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels of the ZRT 800 for 1996
Engine Options Covered:
Specifically the 800cc engine variant.
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF compatible)
Accessibility:
Instant email delivery post-purchase.
Systems Covered:
Engine, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical system, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, chassis, bodywork, and accessories.
Procedures Included:
Comprehensive service, repair, troubleshooting, diagnostics, maintenance, and component replacement procedures.
Engine Repair:
Complete engine overhaul, piston replacement, ring replacement, cylinder head service, gasket replacement, crankshaft and bearing inspection/replacement.
Fuel System Repair:
Carburetor disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, and synchronization. Fuel pump inspection and replacement. Fuel line maintenance.
Drivetrain Maintenance:
Drive belt replacement, clutch inspection and service, chaincase oil change and inspection, track tension adjustment.
Suspension Service:
Front and rear shock absorber inspection, service, and replacement. A-arm bushing inspection and replacement. Ski alignment and adjustment.
Electrical System Diagnostics:
Starter system troubleshooting, ignition system testing, lighting system repair, wiring harness inspection and repair, CDI unit testing.
Brake System Service:
Brake caliper inspection and service, brake pad replacement, brake fluid flush and replacement, brake lever and cable adjustments.
Chassis And Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, seat service, windshield replacement, ski and runner maintenance.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Comprehensive diagnostic trees for common and uncommon issues across all major systems.
Technical Depth:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams and illustrations covering basic maintenance to advanced engine rebuilds and electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Details on using basic hand tools and common diagnostic equipment for troubleshooting.
Lubrication System:
Oil injection system service and adjustment (if applicable to specific model variation).
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and silencer inspection, repair, and replacement.
Print Quality:
High-quality, printable pages
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Compatibility:
Compatible with all PC, MAC, tablets, and mobile phones with Adobe Reader installed.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, two-stroke, twin-cylinder
Engine Displacement:
794cc (48.5 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
73.5 mm x 77 mm (typical for this engine family)
Horsepower:
Approximately 130-140 hp (estimated, specific factory rating may vary)
Carburetion:
Twin Mikuni VM34 carburetors (typical configuration, specific model may vary)
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Cooling System Type:
Liquid-cooled
Transmission Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Arctic Cat's Arctic Drive System (ADS)
Clutch System:
Variable Ratio Drive (VRD) primary clutch and Arctic Drive System (ADS) secondary clutch
Drive System:
Hyperformance drive system with roller secondary clutch
Gear Reduction:
Integrated into the driven clutch and drive system
Spark Plug Replacement:
Check/replace every 1,000-1,500 miles or annually (refer to manual for exact specifications).
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect at 500 miles, replace as needed (condition-based).
Chaincase Oil Change:
Inspect annually or every 1,000 miles, change as needed.
Engine Oil Type:
2-stroke synthetic blend oil meeting API-TC or ISO-L-EGD specifications (refer to manual for specific Arctic Cat recommended oil).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water) for -34°F protection (refer to manual for exact capacity and specifications).
Chaincase Oil:
API GL-5 80W-90 gear oil (refer to manual for specific capacity and Arctic Cat part number).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for specific Arctic Cat recommendation).
Known Issues:
Potential for track wear, clutch adjustments needed due to performance demands, and general wear and tear on suspension components over time. Carburetor tuning can be critical for optimal performance. Exhaust system integrity is important for engine health.
Engine Overheating:
Can occur if cooling system is not properly maintained (low coolant, faulty water pump, blocked radiator/hoses).
Clutch Slipping:
Often due to worn drive belt, incorrect clutch calibration, or improper engagement speed.
Brand Heritage:
Arctic Cat has a long and storied history in snowmobile manufacturing, known for its innovation, performance-oriented designs, and success in racing. Founded in 1960, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of snowmobile technology.
Model Evolution:
The Thunder Cat series was a performance benchmark for Arctic Cat in the mid-1990s. The ZRT 800 represented the pinnacle of their trail and mountain performance, building upon earlier successful models with increased power and refined chassis dynamics.
Production Era:
Mid-1990s (specifically 1996 for this manual)