Model Variant:
Snowmobile
Applicable Model Years:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Category:
Performance Snowmobile
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and technicians performing maintenance and repairs on the Arctic Cat ZR 600.
Competitors:
Ski-Doo Mach Z, Polaris Indy 500/600, Yamaha Vmax 4.
Vehicle Focus:
The Arctic Cat ZR 600 was a popular model known for its performance and handling in the late 90s. This manual is crucial for maintaining its capabilities.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, top-end rebuild, bottom-end components, fuel system, cooling system, ignition system, lubrication system.
Transmission:
Clutch inspection, service, and replacement (drive and driven clutches), belt inspection and replacement, chaincase service, gear maintenance.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing (lights, ignition, charging system), stator and magneto servicing, starter system diagnostics.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension geometry, shock absorber service and replacement, ski and spindle maintenance, track system inspection and adjustment.
Chassis:
Frame inspection, steering system components, brake system service (hydraulic caliper, master cylinder, brake lines), track drive system.
Maintenance:
Routine checks, lubrication points, fluid changes (oil, coolant), spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, belt inspection and tensioning.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common issues, symptom-based problem-solving, specific component testing procedures.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding. Includes torque specifications and alignment procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic pre-ride inspections to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, parallel-twin cylinder.
Displacement:
Approximately 593cc (exact displacement may vary slightly by year/sub-model).
Bore X Stroke:
Typically around 73.0 mm x 72.0 mm (refer to manual for exact figures).
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni VM carburetors (e.g., VM34 or similar, size may vary by year).
Ignition:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition).
Horsepower:
Estimated 90-100 HP (varies by year and tuning).
Cooling System:
Liquid cooling with thermostat and radiator.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87-91 octane recommended).
Oil Mixture:
Pre-mix or oil injection system (depending on year/configuration). Manual will specify oil type (e.g., API-TC rated 2-stroke oil).
Type:
Arctic Automatic Drive (AAD) CVT system with Arctic CAT clutches.
Optional Features:
N/A for this model; CVT was standard.
Clutch Service:
Detailed procedures for drive clutch weights, springs, and ramps; driven clutch spring and roller maintenance.
Chaincase:
Chaincase oil type, capacity, and inspection intervals. Chain and sprocket wear assessment.
Length:
Variable by year, typically around 105-115 inches.
Width:
Variable by year, typically around 47-48 inches.
Height:
Variable by year, typically around 40-45 inches.
Dry Weight:
Approximately 450-500 lbs (without fluids).
Ski Stance:
Typically around 42.5 inches (center-to-center).
Safety Standards:
Compliance with industry safety standards of the era. No formal crash ratings like automobiles.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake, typically with a single caliper on the driveshaft or track spindle.
Lighting:
Headlights, taillight, brake light.
Handlebars:
Grip heaters, throttle lever, brake lever, kill switch.
Seat:
Single or two-up seating configuration.
Oil Change:
Refer to manual for chaincase oil change intervals (e.g., annually or every 1,000 miles/equivalent operating hours).
Spark Plugs:
Recommend inspection/replacement every 1,500-2,000 miles or annually. Manual will specify exact plug type and gap.
Clutch Service:
Periodic inspection of clutch weights, rollers, and belts. Belt replacement often recommended based on wear or every 2-3 seasons.
Suspension Lube:
Greasing of suspension pivot points and spindles as per manual recommendations (often every 50-100 operating hours or annually).
Coolant:
Proprietary Arctic Cat coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/water mix (50/50 ratio recommended). Manual specifies capacity.
Chaincase Oil:
Specific Arctic Cat gear oil or a suitable SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear lubricant. Manual specifies capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. Manual specifies exact type and bleed procedure.
Engine Wear:
Piston ring wear, exhaust port blockages due to carbon buildup, crank seal leaks (common in older 2-strokes).
Clutch Issues:
Sheared clutch rollers, worn clutch buttons, incorrect clutch calibration leading to poor performance.
Suspension Wear:
Worn A-arm bushings, shock absorber leaks, ski spindle wear.
Manufacturer:
Arctic Enterprises (later Arctic Cat Inc.), founded in Thief River Falls, Minnesota.
Gneneration:
The ZR line represented Arctic Cat's commitment to performance and aggressive styling, evolving from earlier models with improved suspension and engine technology.
Production Period:
The ZR 600 was a key model throughout the 1990s, with continuous updates in chassis and engine refinement.
Key Innovations Era:
This era saw advancements in rider ergonomics, tunnel design, and suspension articulation.