Target Audience:
Snowmobile enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional service technicians working on Arctic Cat snowmobiles from 1990-1998.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth, model-specific repair and maintenance information that is essential for keeping these iconic Arctic Cat snowmobiles operational and performing optimally. Its digital format ensures instant access and portability.
Manual Features:
Bookmarked chapters, notes/cautions/warnings, step-by-step numbered instructions, bold figured numbers for illustration matching, detailed illustrations/diagrams/photos, numbered table of contents.
Covered Models:
Prowler, Cougar, Panther 440, Panther 550, EXT 550, EXT 580, EXT 600, Z 440, ZL 440, ZR 440, ZR 580, ZR 600, ZRT 600, Powder Special, Powder Extreme
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Major Systems:
Engine, Fuel System (Carbureted & Fuel Injected), Exhaust System, Electrical Systems, Oil Injection System, Cooling System, Recoil Starter, Drive System, Brake System, Driven Shaft, Dropcase, Driveshaft, Front Suspension, Steering System, Track System, Rear Suspension
Repair And Maintenance Procedures:
General Information, Troubleshooting, Lubrication, Maintenance, Tune-up, Adjustments for Special Use, Engine Overhaul, Fuel System Servicing, Exhaust System Repair, Electrical System Diagnostics, Oil Injection System Maintenance, Cooling System Servicing, Recoil Starter Repair, Drive System Maintenance, Brake System Servicing, Suspension and Steering Alignment, Track Maintenance, Off-Season Storage Procedures
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive diagnostic, repair, and overhaul procedures, including detailed illustrations, exploded diagrams, and step-by-step instructions. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex engine and component rebuilding.
File Quality:
High-resolution PDF suitable for printing. Chapters are bookmarked for easy navigation.
Print Readability:
Designed for clarity with bold figured numbers for illustration matching and numbered instructions for procedural guidance.
Binding Type:
Not applicable (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Type:
Not applicable (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Types Covered:
Various 2-stroke piston port and reed valve engines, including Rotax-built units and Arctic Cat's own designs. Displacement varies by model (e.g., 440cc, 550cc, 580cc, 600cc).
Horsepower Torque Range:
Horsepower and torque figures varied significantly across models and engine displacements within the 1990-1998 range. Specific figures are detailed within the manual for each engine variant.
Fuel System Types:
Carbureted (Mikuni VM series and others) and early Fuel Injection (FI) systems are covered, depending on the specific model and year.
Transmission Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) utilizing a primary (drive) clutch and secondary (driven) clutch with a drive belt.
Optional Transmission Features:
Not applicable, all models utilize CVT systems. Reverse gears are typically electric or manual engage/disengage.
Clutch Maintenance Procedures:
Detailed procedures for primary and secondary clutch inspection, cleaning, adjustment, and component replacement are included.
Chassis Types:
Various chassis configurations including CAT-GC, AWS (Advanced Warrior System) front suspension setups, and different tunnel designs optimized for specific riding styles (trail, mountain, cross-country).
Dry Weight Range:
Dry weights varied by model, typically ranging from approximately 450 lbs to over 550 lbs, depending on engine size and features.
Safety Features:
Disc brakes, kill switches, headlight, taillight, brake light, and reflective elements are standard safety features discussed. Handwarmers and thumbwarmers for rider comfort and control.
Passive Safety Considerations:
Body panel design, seating position, and chassis stability are key passive safety considerations addressed implicitly through proper maintenance and adjustment procedures.
Infotainment Features Of Era:
Snowmobiles of this era typically featured basic analog gauge clusters (speedometer, tachometer, coolant temperature). Advanced features were limited.
Driver Assistance Systems:
Driver assistance features were not prevalent. Emphasis was on mechanical systems and rider input for control and performance.
Connectivity Features:
Not applicable. Connectivity was not a feature of snowmobiles in this period.
Typical Maintenance Intervals:
The manual details specific intervals for lubrication, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection/replacement, carburetors/FI system cleaning, and track tension adjustment, typically based on mileage or operating hours.
Lubricant Recommendations:
Specific grades of 2-stroke engine oil (pre-mix or oil injection systems), chaincase oil, and brake fluid are specified, with capacities for each system.
Common Wear And Tear:
The manual addresses common issues such as clutch wear, drive belt failure, carburetor jetting issues, suspension component wear, and cooling system maintenance, providing diagnostic and repair procedures.
Arctic Cat Legacy:
Arctic Cat has a long-standing history in snowmobile manufacturing, known for performance and innovation, particularly in the late 80s and 90s with models like the EXT and ZR series.
Key Model Developments:
This era saw significant advancements in suspension technology (AWS), engine performance, and rider ergonomics, with models like the ZR becoming benchmarks in the industry.
Manufacturing Era:
The 1990-1998 period represents a pivotal time for Arctic Cat, marked by a focus on high-performance, exciting designs, and expansion of their model lineup.
