🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Arctic Cat

Model:

Powder Special, Bearcat, Kitty Cat, Pantera, Panther, Thundercat, Z, ZL, ZR, ZRT

Year:

1999

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1999 Arctic Cat snowmobile lineup represented a strong offering in the performance and utility segments of the snowmobile market. This manual caters to owners and technicians needing authoritative information for maintenance and repair.

Segment Strength:

The 1999 lineup demonstrates Arctic Cat's strength in the high-performance and mountain segments with models like the ZR, ZL, Thundercat, and Powder Special, while also maintaining a presence in the utility segment with the Bearcat series.

Competitors:

Key competitors in the 1999 model year included Ski-Doo (Bombardier), Polaris, and Yamaha. Arctic Cat was known for its potent engines and sporty chassis designs, particularly in the ZR and Thundercat lines.

Manual Utility:

Provides essential diagnostic and repair information for a wide range of 1999 Arctic Cat snowmobile models, enabling owners to perform maintenance and repairs efficiently, reducing downtime and repair costs.

Download Benefit:

The downloadable PDF format provides instant access, allows for printing of specific pages for use in a workshop environment, and avoids the damage often incurred by physical manuals in dirty or greasy conditions.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

1999 Arctic Cat 500 Powder Special, 1999 Arctic Cat 600 Powder Special, 1999 Arctic Cat 700 Powder Special, 1999 Arctic Cat Bearcat 340, 1999 Arctic Cat Bearcat 440, 1999 Arctic Cat Bearcat 550, 1999 Arctic Cat Kitty Cat, 1999 Arctic Cat Pantera 1000, 1999 Arctic Cat Pantera 580, 1999 Arctic Cat Panther 340, 1999 Arctic Cat Panther 440, 1999 Arctic Cat Panther 550, 1999 Arctic Cat Thundercat, 1999 Arctic Cat Triple Touring 600, 1999 Arctic Cat Z 120, 1999 Arctic Cat Z 370, 1999 Arctic Cat Z 440, 1999 Arctic Cat ZL 440, 1999 Arctic Cat ZL 500, 1999 Arctic Cat ZL 550, 1999 Arctic Cat ZL 580, 1999 Arctic Cat ZL 600, 1999 Arctic Cat ZL 700, 1999 Arctic Cat ZR 500, 1999 Arctic Cat ZR 600, 1999 Arctic Cat ZR 700, 1999 Arctic Cat ZRT 600, 1999 Arctic Cat ZRT 800

Completeness:

This manual aims to be a comprehensive resource covering all aspects of repair and maintenance for the listed 1999 Arctic Cat snowmobile models.

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Manual Type:

Factory Authorized Reprint / OEM Shop/Service/Repair Manual

Language:

English

Estimated Page Count:

Actual page count is not specified, but comprehensive factory service manuals of this era typically range from 300 to over 800 pages, depending on the number of models and variations covered.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine removal and installation, engine specifications, engine troubleshooting, internal engine components (pistons, rings, cylinders, crankshaft, connecting rods, valves, camshafts), cylinder head service, power valve operation (if applicable)

Fuel System:

Carburetor identification, adjustment, cleaning, and rebuilding; fuel pump operation; fuel lines and filters; fuel tank service

Lubrication And Cooling:

Lubrication system operation, oil pump service, oil filter replacement, cooling system diagnosis, radiator service, thermostat replacement, coolant specifications

Transmission Drive Chain Sprockets:

Drive clutch operation and service, driven clutch operation and service, drive chain inspection and adjustment, sprocket replacement, gearcase lubrication

Steering System:

Steering post disassembly and reassembly, tie rod inspection and adjustment, spindle service, handlebar replacement

Shocks Suspension:

Front suspension diagnosis and repair, rear suspension diagnosis and repair, shock absorber service and replacement, spring adjustments

Electrical System:

Ignition system testing (CDI, coils, spark plugs), lighting system troubleshooting, charging system diagnosis (stator, rectifier/regulator), starter motor operation and service, wiring diagrams, battery maintenance

Bodywork:

Front and rear suspension components, ski alignment and adjustment, track inspection and replacement, hood and body panel removal and installation, seat removal

Intake Exhaust:

Airbox inspection, silencer inspection, exhaust pipe inspection and replacement

General Information:

Includes general information about the snowmobile, safety precautions, vehicle identification numbers (VIN), and general specifications.

Body Chassis:

Information on chassis alignment, tunnel repairs, seat mounting, and general body panel adjustments and repairs.

Routine Maintenance:

Pre-ride inspections, lubrication points and schedules, fluid level checks, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, track tension adjustment, clutch inspection

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common starting, running, and electrical issues; specific troubleshooting steps for engine performance problems

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component repair and rebuilding, including engine internals, carburetors, clutches, and suspension components

Installation:

Engine installation and removal procedures, component installation guidelines

Advanced Troubleshooting:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for diagnosing and repairing complex or intermittent issues across all major systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete engine rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications and clearances.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

PDF format typically allows for searchable text, making it easy to locate specific procedures or specifications.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Types:

This manual covers a variety of engine displacements, primarily liquid-cooled, two-stroke, reed-valve induction engines. Common displacements include 120cc, 340cc, 370cc, 440cc, 500cc, 550cc, 580cc, 600cc, 700cc, 800cc, and 1000cc. Specific engine configurations (e.g., single-cylinder, twin-cylinder, triple-cylinder) vary by model.

Horsepower Range:

Horsepower figures for 1999 Arctic Cat models ranged broadly, from approximately 30 HP for smaller engines (e.g., Kitty Cat, Z 120) to over 150 HP for high-performance models like the Thundercat and ZRT 800. Specific figures are model-dependent and detailed within the manual.

Torque Figures:

Specific torque figures for engine components (e.g., head bolts, connecting rods, crankcase bolts) are crucial for proper engine assembly and are extensively detailed in the manual.

Carburetion:

Most models utilize Mikuni or Keihin carburetors. Specific carburetor models and jetting are detailed per engine and model variation. Some higher displacement engines may feature multiple carburetors (e.g., dual carburetors for twin-cylinder engines).

Engine Description:

Primarily carbureted, liquid-cooled, 2-stroke engines. Some smaller models may be fan-cooled. Configurations range from single-cylinder (e.g., Kitty Cat) to twin-cylinder and triple-cylinder setups for larger displacement models.

🔧 Transmission

Drive System:

Arctic Cat's proprietary Arctic Drive System (ADS) clutch system is standard across all covered models. This consists of a drive clutch (primary) and a driven clutch (secondary) working in conjunction with a drive belt.

Gearbox:

Most snowmobiles in this era featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) via the clutch system. Some utility models or specialized variants might have had a simple forward/neutral/reverse gearbox, though this is less common for the performance-oriented models listed.

Clutch Service:

The manual provides detailed procedures for clutch alignment, weight and spring changes for performance tuning, belt inspection and replacement, and primary/secondary clutch disassembly and cleaning.

📐 Dimensions

Varied Dimensions:

Snowmobile dimensions (length, width, height) vary significantly by model. Performance models (ZR, ZL) are typically longer and narrower, while utility models (Bearcat) are wider and offer more cargo space. Specific measurements are model-dependent and found within the manual's general information sections.

Dry Weight:

Dry weights also vary considerably. Performance sleds might range from 450-550 lbs, while larger utility sleds could exceed 600 lbs. Precise dry weight figures are model-specific and can be found in the relevant model sections of the manual.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

Snowmobile safety standards are primarily governed by manufacturer guidelines and industry best practices rather than formal crash ratings like automobiles. The manual will cover safe operating procedures and maintenance checks critical for safety.

Braking System:

All models feature hydraulic disc brakes, typically on the driveshaft or a dedicated brake rotor. The manual will detail brake caliper service, pad replacement, fluid checks, and bleeding procedures.

Ergonomics Design:

The manual implicitly covers safety through proper maintenance of steering, suspension, and braking systems, which are critical active safety features for snowmobiles.

💡 Technology Features

Instrument Panel:

Instrument panels typically consist of a speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, engine temperature gauge (or warning light), and neutral/reverse indicator lights (if applicable). Some higher-end models may have additional indicators.

No Advanced Assistance:

Snowmobiles of this era did not feature advanced driver assistance systems in the modern automotive sense. Safety and control were reliant on rider skill and the proper functioning of mechanical systems.

No Connectivity:

No electronic connectivity features such as GPS, Bluetooth, or smartphone integration were available on these models.

🔧 Maintenance

General Intervals:

Typical service intervals include: inspect/replace drive belt every 1,000-1,500 miles or annually, check/adjust track tension after initial break-in and periodically, lubricate suspension/steering components every 50 hours or annually, spark plug inspection/replacement every 1,000-1,500 miles. The manual provides detailed, model-specific schedules.

Carburetor Cleaning:

Carburetor cleaning and synchronization (if applicable) is recommended annually or as needed based on performance issues, with detailed instructions provided.

Engine Oil:

Two-stroke oil is mixed with fuel or injected via an oil injection system. Specific oil recommendations for the oil injection system and fuel/oil mix ratios are provided in the manual. Typically, high-quality, NMMA TC-W3 certified or equivalent synthetic two-stroke oil is used.

Coolant:

Liquid-cooled models require a specific antifreeze/coolant mixture. The manual will specify the type (e.g., ethylene glycol based) and recommended ratio for freeze protection and corrosion inhibition. Typical capacity ranges from 2-4 quarts depending on the model.

Gearcase Oil:

The transmission or gearcase requires specific lubrication. The manual will specify the type of gear oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90 GL-5) and capacity, which is typically small (around 4-8 oz).

Common Wear Items:

Common wear items for this era of Arctic Cat snowmobiles include drive belts, carbides on the skis, track lugs, clutch components (rollers, buttons), and shock bushings. The manual provides guidance on inspecting and replacing these items.

Engine Specifics:

Some models from this era may be prone to issues like power valve sticking (requiring regular cleaning), crank seal leaks, or heat-related wear on specific engine components. The manual offers diagnostic procedures for these potential problems.

Electrical Common:

Intermittent electrical connections, charging system issues (stator or rectifier), and CDI box failures can occur with age and mileage. The manual will provide diagnostic charts for these.

📚 Vehicle History

Arctic Cat Heritage:

Arctic Enterprises, the precursor to Arctic Cat Inc., was founded in 1960. They established a strong reputation for rugged, reliable snowmobiles, particularly in the early days of the sport. The company has a history of innovation in engine technology and chassis design.

Brand Focus:

Arctic Cat has historically been known for its focus on performance and off-trail riding capabilities, though they also produced capable utility and trail-oriented machines.

1999 Lineup:

The 1999 model year saw Arctic Cat refining its successful lines, including the performance-oriented ZR and ZL series, the powerful Thundercat and ZRT models, and the versatile Bearcat utility sleds. The Powder Special models were geared towards deep snow riding.

Powdertraining:

The Powder Special models were designed with longer tracks and specific suspension tuning for improved flotation and control in deep snow conditions.

Manufacturing Location:

Arctic Cat snowmobiles are primarily manufactured in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Reputation:

Arctic Cat models from the late 1990s were generally well-received for their performance and handling. Specific awards would be model and year-specific, often coming from snowmobile enthusiast publications and organizations based on performance tests and rider feedback.