Basic Information
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Identification
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Make:
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Arctic Cat
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Model:
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Prowler, Cougar, Panther, EXT, Z, ZL, ZR, POWDER Special, POWDER Extreme
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Model Variants:
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Panther 400, Panther 550, EXT 550, EXT 580, EXT 600, Z 440, ZL 440, ZR600, ZRT600
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Production Years Covered:
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1990-1998
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine:
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Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, tuning, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (carburetion/injection depending on model), ignition system, exhaust system.
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Transmission:
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Clutch system (drive clutch, driven clutch), chaincase, gearbox (if applicable), differential (if applicable), lubrication, seals, bearings.
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Suspension:
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Front suspension (IFS, Arctic Cat parallelogram ski suspension), rear suspension (articulating rear suspension, torque arm suspension, boggie wheel systems), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment.
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Steering:
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Steering mechanism, tie rods, spindles, handlebar assembly, lubrication, adjustment.
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Brakes:
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Hydraulic brake system (master cylinder, caliper, rotor, lines), parking brake, adjustment, fluid specifications.
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Electrical:
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Ignition system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, brake light), starting system, charging system (stator, rectifier/regulator), battery, wiring diagrams, switches, sensors, troubleshooting.
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Bodywork And Chassis:
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Tunnel, skis, track, seat, handlebars, controls, body panels, hood, windshield, fasteners, torque specifications.
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug service, track tension adjustment, suspension lubrication, brake fluid flush, clutch inspection and cleaning.
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Troubleshooting:
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Diagnostic procedures for engine performance issues, electrical faults, braking problems, and suspension wear.
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Repair:
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Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.
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Disassembly And Assembly:
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Complete step-by-step instructions for disassembling and reassembling all major vehicle components.
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive: from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed troubleshooting and electrical diagnostics.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Engine Types:
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Two-stroke, reed-valve, fan-cooled and liquid-cooled gasoline engines.
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Displacement Range:
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Approximately 400cc to 600cc (specific to each model variant, e.g., Z 440, Panther 550, EXT 600).
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Performance
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Horsepower Range:
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Estimated range from 70-110+ HP depending on model and engine size.
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Torque Specifications:
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Specific torque values for engine components will be detailed within the manual.
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Fuel System
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Carburetion:
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Primarily Mikuni or Keihin carburetors; manual will detail specific models, jetting, and tuning procedures.
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Fuel Type:
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Leaded or unleaded gasoline (check owner's manual for specific octane requirements, typically 87-91 octane).
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Lubrication
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Oil Type Engine:
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Typically 2-stroke specific synthetic or semi-synthetic snowmobile oil (e.g., API TC-W3 or JASO FD rated). Manual will specify exact type and brand recommendations.
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Oil Type Chaincase:
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Specialized gear oil for the chaincase (e.g., SAE 80W-90 gear oil). Manual will specify capacity and type.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Chaincase:
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Typically every 100-150 hours of operation or annually. Manual will specify exact interval.
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Spark Plug Service:
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Inspect every 100-250 hours, replace as needed. Manual will provide gap specifications.
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Clutch Service:
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Inspect primary and secondary clutches for wear and proper function every 50-100 hours. Belt inspection every 25-50 hours.
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Suspension Lubrication:
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Grease suspension pivot points and shock linkages every 25-50 hours of operation.
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Fluid Specifications
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Brake Fluid:
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DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (manual will specify exact type).
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Coolant:
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For liquid-cooled models: Permanent type antifreeze (ethylene glycol based) with a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Manual will specify capacity and freeze protection level.
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Known Issues
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Clutch Belt Wear:
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Common for CVT belts to wear and stretch over time, requiring replacement. Proper clutch alignment and belt tension are crucial.
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Carburetor Icing:
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Can occur in cold, humid conditions. Manual will cover potential causes and remedies.
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Exhaust Bellows Leaks:
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Rubber exhaust bellows can degrade and leak, affecting engine performance. Regular inspection and replacement are recommended.
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Suspension Bushings:
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Wear in suspension bushings can lead to play and affect handling. Manual will detail replacement procedures.
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