Spark Plug(S); Throttle Cable Adjustment; Air Filter - Arctic Cat 500 Operato's Manual

Spark Plug(s)

The ATV comes equipped with a specified
spark plug. See the appropriate specifica-
tions chart for the correct spark plug. A
light brown insulator indicates that the
plug is correct. A white or dark insulator
indicates that the engine may need to be
serviced or the carburetor may need to be
adjusted. Consult an authorized Arctic Cat
ATV dealer if the plug insulator is not a
light brown color. To help prevent cold
weather fouling, make sure to thoroughly
warm up the engine before operating.
To maintain a hot, strong spark, keep the
plug free of carbon.
Before removing the spark plug, be sure
to clean the area around the spark plug. If
you do not, dirt could enter engine when
removing or installing the spark plug.
Adjust the gap to specified amount (see
appropriate specifications chart) for
proper ignition. Use a feeler gauge to
check the gap.
When installing the spark plug, be sure to
tighten it securely. A new spark plug
should be tightened 1/2 turn once the
washer contacts the cylinder head. A
used spark plug should be tightened 1/8 -
1/4 turn once the washer contacts the cyl-
inder head.
Throttle Cable
Adjustment
To adjust the throttle cable free-play:
1. Loosen the jam nut from the throttle
cable adjuster.
2. Slide the rubber boot away and turn the
adjuster until the throttle lever has
proper free-play of 3-6 mm (1/8-1/4 in.).
3. Tighten the jam nut against the throt-
tle cable adjuster securely; then slide
the rubber boot over the adjuster.

Air Filter

The air filter inside the air filter housing
must be kept clean to provide good engine
power and gas mileage. If the ATV is used
under normal conditions, service the filter
at the intervals specified in the Mainte-
ATV-0051
nance Schedule. If operated in dusty, wet,
or muddy conditions, inspect and service
the filter more frequently. Use the follow-
ing procedure to remove the filter and
inspect and/or clean it.
CAUTION
Failure to inspect the air filter fre-
quently if the ATV is used in dusty,
wet, or muddy conditions can dam-
age the engine.
1. Remove the fasteners securing the
storage compartment and remove the
storage compartment.
2. Remove the air filter housing cover
ATV0052B
and the air filter/frame assembly.
3. Remove the foam element from the
frame making sure not to tear the ele-
ment.
ATV-0047
73