Market Segment:
Entry-level to mid-range trail and utility snowmobiles of the late 1980s. Known for reliability and ease of maintenance.
Key Competitors:
Competed with models from Yamaha (e.g., Exciter, Phazer), Ski-Doo (e.g., Safari, Formula), and Polaris (e.g., Indy Lite, Sport).
Vehicle Strengths:
Reliable two-stroke engines, comfortable seating, capable suspension for varied terrain, good value for money.
Manual Utility:
Essential for owners and technicians to perform maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics, ensuring the longevity and performance of these vintage snowmobiles.
Covered Models:
1987 Arctic Cat Jag, 1987 Arctic Cat Panther, 1987 Arctic Cat Super Jag
Estimated Page Count:
Typically 300-500 pages for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era, covering multiple models.
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF implied by 'Download the entire manual here instantly!')
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, top-end rebuild, bottom-end assembly, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, fuel system (carburetion), exhaust system.
Drivetrain Systems:
Primary clutch, secondary clutch, drive belts, chaincase, track drive system, skis, steering system, suspension systems (front and rear).
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition switch, starter system, charging system (if applicable), kill switches, safety features.
Chassis And Body:
Frame inspection and repair, body panels, seat, handlebars, controls, fuel tank, exhaust mounting.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, lubrication points, belt inspection and replacement, spark plug checks, chain tension adjustment, suspension adjustment.
Repair Procedures:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, clutch service, track replacement, shock absorber servicing, steering linkage repair, carburetor tuning.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common starting issues, performance problems, electrical malfunctions, and mechanical failures.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, including torque specifications, clearances, disassembly/assembly sequences, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed troubleshooting guides and symptom-based diagnostics for identifying and rectifying mechanical and electrical issues.
Digital Format Details:
Likely a high-resolution PDF with searchable text for ease of use. Quality would depend on the source scan.
Print Quality Suitability:
Optimized for digital viewing and printing. Original factory manuals were printed on durable paper; digital versions retain this information.
Binding Type Original:
Typically spiral-bound or saddle-stitched for original factory manuals to lie flat during work.
Paper Type Original:
Durable, often coated paper to withstand workshop environments.
Engine Type:
Two-stroke, liquid or fan-cooled (specific cooling dependent on exact model variant within Jag/Panther/Super Jag line).
Displacement Range:
Likely in the 250cc to 450cc range, common for this class of snowmobile in 1987. Exact displacement would require specific model breakdown.
Bore X Stroke:
Specific values would be detailed in the manual, typically around 70-78mm bore and 60-70mm stroke for this displacement class.
Horsepower Range:
Estimated 30-50 HP, depending on the specific engine and tune.
Carburetion:
Likely Mikuni or Keihin single or dual carburetors, depending on engine configuration and displacement.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil (typically 40:1 or 50:1 ratio, specified in manual).
Oil Mixing Ratio:
Prescribed by Arctic Cat, crucial for engine longevity. Manual will specify exact ratio.
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) with mechanical or electronic timing advance.
Spark Plug Type:
Commonly NGK BR9ES or similar, with specific gap requirements detailed in the manual.
Transmission Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with an Arctic Cat clutch system.
Optional Transmission:
Not applicable for this era and model type; CVT was standard.
Clutch System:
Primary (drive) clutch and secondary (driven) clutch, featuring roller bearings and weight-based engagement.
Drive System:
Chaincase driven by the transmission, transferring power to the track.
Chaincase Oil Type:
Specific gear oil for the chaincase (e.g., SAE 80W-90 or 80W-140), capacity and change intervals will be in the manual.
Overall Length:
Variable by model, typically around 100-115 inches (254-292 cm).
Overall Width:
Variable by model, typically around 38-42 inches (97-107 cm).
Dry Weight:
Estimated 350-450 lbs (159-204 kg), depending on specific model and features.
Fuel Capacity:
Typically 5-8 gallons (19-30 liters).
Safety Standards Compliance:
Built to meet relevant snowmobile safety standards of the era, including braking and visibility requirements.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake on the drive shaft or track, controlled by a handlebar lever.
Kill Switch:
Emergency engine stop switch, often tethered to the rider.
Lighting:
Headlight and taillight for visibility.
Infotainment System:
No advanced infotainment systems; basic instrumentation includes speedometer and possibly an engine hour meter.
Driver Assistance Features:
None; these are analog, mechanically controlled snowmobiles.
Connectivity Features:
None; purely mechanical operation.
Oil Change Chaincase:
Typically annually or every 1000-2000 miles, but specific interval will be in manual.
Clutch Inspection:
Inspect drive and driven clutches annually for wear, damage, and proper function. Re-lube/service as per manual recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Replace as needed, typically every 100-200 hours or annually, depending on usage and condition.
Cooling System Coolant:
If liquid-cooled, specific antifreeze mixture (e.g., ethylene glycol based) and capacity will be specified.
Brake Fluid Type:
Likely DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Carburetor Icing:
A common issue in cold, humid conditions for carbureted engines. Manual will offer solutions.
Drive Belt Wear:
Drive belts wear over time and require regular inspection and replacement to prevent breakage and maintain performance.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber bushings in suspension and steering components can degrade over time, leading to play and noise.
Maintenance Schedule Summary
Preventative Maintenance:
Annual checks of drive belt, chaincase oil, clutch alignment and wear, track tension, and general lubrication.
Arctic Cat History:
Arctic Cat has a long history in snowmobile manufacturing, established in the early 1960s, known for innovation and performance.
Jag Panther Evolution:
The Jag and Panther lines were popular for their versatility and affordability, evolving through various engine sizes and chassis updates throughout the 1980s.
Manufacturing Location:
Typically manufactured in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, USA.
1987 Market Context:
The late 1980s saw significant advancements in snowmobile technology, with manufacturers focusing on lighter chassis, more powerful engines, and improved suspension.
Brand Awards:
Arctic Cat has received numerous awards for innovation and performance across its product lines over the decades, though specific awards for these exact 1987 models are unlikely to be documented in a general service manual.
Industry Ratings 1987:
Snowmobile magazines of the era would have provided reviews and comparisons, likely rating these models as solid, reliable performers in their class.
Manufacturing Certifications:
Built to meet industry safety and emission standards applicable at the time of manufacture.
