Argo 6x6 Vanguard Operator's Manual
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OPERATOR'S
MANUAL
MANUAL NO. 671-04 Rev. 11
Printed in Canada
03/2004
5C

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  • Page 1 OPERATOR’S MANUAL MANUAL NO. 671-04 Rev. 11 Printed in Canada 03/2004...
  • Page 2 Saudi Arabia. We are proud to provide you with a vehicle that represents the ultimate in amphibi- ous, all-terrain transportation. Your safety and the safety of all ARGO users is of the greatest concern to us. You will find numerous safety statements in this manual. Please read and follow them carefully. Always be safety conscious when you operate your ARGO and remember it is a motorized vehicle.
  • Page 3 Read this manual before you operate your ARGO. It contains safe operating instructions and warns the user about potential hazards that can result in per- sonal injury. Warnings are identified in the text by the following symbol: Warning text warns the user about potential hazards that can result in personal injury or death.
  • Page 4 • No one under the age of 16 should be allowed to operate the ARGO. Children under the age of 16 may not have the skills, abilities or judgement needed to operate the Argo safely and may be involved in an accident causing severe injury or death.
  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES ..................1 WIND CHILL FACTOR ..................... 1 MODEL IDENTIFICATION ....................1 1.4.1 Argo Vehicle Capacity ..................3 REAR SEATS - 8 WHEEL MODELS ................. 3 IDENTIFICATION AND LOCATION OF CONTROLS ............4 INFORMATION LABELS ....................6 GENERAL OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS NEW VEHICLE “BREAK-IN”...
  • Page 6 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ...................... 26 7.1.1 GENERAL ......................26 7.1.2 BATTERY - Argo Part No. 127-54 ................ 26 Checking Fluid Level ................... 26 Cleaning the Battery Terminals and Cable Connections ........26 Cleaning the Battery .................... 27 7.1.3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FUSES ................27 7.1.4...
  • Page 7 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION PAGE 7.2.5 IDLER CHAIN ....................31 Idler Chain Adjustment ..................32 Idler Chain Replacement ..................32 Removal of Idler Chains ..................32 Installation of Idler Chains ................. 33 7.2.6 TIRE INFLATION ....................33 7.2.7 TIRE REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT ..............33 7.2.8 AXLE BEARING MOUNTING ................
  • Page 8 OUTBOARD MOTOR SUPPORT (Part No. 618-00) ..............52 11.7 OUTBOARD MOTOR BRACKET - SIDE MOUNT (Part No. 618-10) ......... 52 11.8 ARGO STORAGE COVERS (Part Nos. 621-10; 621-20; 821-10; 821-20 ........52 11.9 POWER WINCH (Part Nos. 622-40 & 622-70) ................52 11.9.1 Rules for Safe Operation ....................
  • Page 9: General Information

    1.1 AMPHIBIOUS OPERATION Why does it feel much colder outdoors on a windy day than All models of the ARGO are amphibious and capable of tra- when there’s no wind, especially in winter? versing calm water. Special operating procedures and safety precautions must be observed before entering the water and The cooling effect of the wind makes it feel that it’s colder...
  • Page 10 SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION ARGO 6 x 6 CONQUEST (C) (A) On vehicles manufactured from August 15 of 2002, the four or five digit serial number begins with one of the following prefix: Serial Number: C-12747 Engine: Kawasaki 620 cc (20 h.p.) V-twin 4 cycle, liquid...
  • Page 11: Argo Vehicle Capacity

    Drive Chains: Double RC-50 roller chains & Single RC 60 Roller chain Do NOT use an Argo on water when equipped with a Electrical: 12 volt D.C. battery, 435 cranking amps at 0 F; snow plow. Do NOT use an Argo 6x6 in water when 25 Amp charging system, electronic ignition equipped with a ROPS.
  • Page 12: Identification And Location Of Controls

    SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION 1.6 IDENTIFICATION AND LOCATION OF CONTROLS...
  • Page 13 SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION 1.6 IDENTIFICATION AND LOCATION OF CONTROLS...
  • Page 14: Information Labels

    Argo. Figure 1-1 Location of Information Labels - All Models The label shown below is located behind the seat in the rear compartment of all 6-wheel models.
  • Page 15: New Vehicle "Break-In" Procedure

    The throt- changing instructions. tle must operate smoothly and return automatically to the fully closed position. Take the vehicle to an ARGO dealer 4. Change the engine oil in the Vanguard engine after the first if the twist grip requires adjustment.
  • Page 16: Fueling The Vehicle

    When installing the Handrail Kit, Convertible Top Kit or Outboard Motor Bracket; Since the fuel vent hose All CB, C, RB, R, BF, B, SN, N, S and A models of the ARGO are runs along the under side of the upper body, care must equipped with a 32 litre (7.0 Imp.
  • Page 17: Operating Instructions

    3-2) To stop the vehicle, pull back on the hand brake lever located on the left handle bar. The ARGO is a skid steer vehicle. During a turn, the rear of the vehicle swings outward as the vehicle pivots on the front tire...
  • Page 18: Holding Brake System - Vanguard

    1. Pull the steering lever back. All ARGO models are equipped with key operated, electric start systems. Starting procedure is identical for all models. 2. The spring-loaded holding brake lever will release auto- To start the vehicle, proceed as follows: matically.
  • Page 19: Stopping The Engine

    GEARS (All CB, C, RB, R, BF, B, SN, N, S and A models) it in all the way as the engine warms up. All models for the ARGO are equipped with a four position 8. If the engine fails to start, refer to the trouble-shooting transmission.
  • Page 20: Selecting And Changing Transmission Gears (Avenger Model)

    All ARGO vehicles are equipped with 2 headlights that are operated through the dash mounted light switch. To turn the NOTE: You will find it easier to engage high gear if the gear lights on, pull the light switch out.
  • Page 21: Driving Procedures

    4.3 TURNING THE VEHICLE The Moto-Cross style steering bar is spring loaded to return The ARGO is a skid steer vehicle. The rear of the vehicle swings to a centered position. (See figure 4-2) At this location, no outward during a turn. Always take precautions when making braking is applied to either of the calipers.
  • Page 22: Turning The Vehicle

    SECTION 4 DRIVING PROCEDURES 4.3.1 Left Turn When turning the vehicle while backing up, the rear of the vehicle swings in the direction of the turn. This is unusual for All CB, C, RB, R, BF, B, SN, N, S and A models most people who are not familiar with skid steer vehicles.
  • Page 23: Driving Procedures During Unusual Conditions

    5.2 ANGLE OF OPERATION Always approach the hill head on to minimize the possibility When operating any Argo vehicle on an angle, (up and down of sliding sideways, or rolling over. Gently apply the brakes to hills or across uneven terrain that causes the vehicle to tilt in control downward vehicle speed.
  • Page 24: Side Slope Operation

    (Figure 5-1) are in place and prop- erly tightened. To install, seat the rubber portion of the ARGO vehicles may sink if they fill with water. If water drain plug properly in the lower body hole and push the starts entering the vehicle, head to the nearest shore lever down to lock plug in place (Figure 5-3).
  • Page 25: Entering Water

    SECTION 5 DRIVING PROCEDURES IN UNUSUAL CONDITIONS Figure 5-2. Location of rear drain plugs (AVENGER model) 4. Visually check the lower body of the vehicle for cuts, punc- tures or holes that will allow water to enter the vehicle. 5. Make sure that any cargo in the rear of the vehicle is evenly Figure 5-5 Outer bearing flange sealing area.
  • Page 26: Driving Out Of Water

    Steer the vehicle so that both front wheels reach the shore at the same time. Accelerate slowly until the vehicle is out of the Using the ARGO on ice-covered bodies of water is po- tentially hazardous. Use extreme caution. Exposure to water.
  • Page 27 • Avoid getting the wheels on only one side onto the ice surface as water could enter over the opposite side of the vehicle. • Avoid turning as the Argo is climbing out to avoid vehicle tip-over. • Break the thin ice around the vehicle with the paddle until there is firm ice for the vehicle to climb onto.
  • Page 28: Oil, Filter And Lubrication Information

    SECTION 6 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION 6.1 ENGINE OIL INFORMATION Do not run the engine if the oil level is above the FULL Detailed information on standard workshop and safety mark or below the ADD mark. Premature engine dam- procedures and general installation practices is not age or total engine failure can occur when the oil level included here.
  • Page 29: Changing Engine Oil

    SECTION 6 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION Figure 6-4 Oil Capacities 6.1.3 Changing Engine Oil During the initial engine break-in period, change the oil after the first 8 hours of operation for the Briggs & Stratton engine, the first 20 hours of operation for the Kawasaki and Kohler Aegis engine.
  • Page 30: Refilling The Engine

    CB, C, RB, R, BF, B, SN, N, S and A models is 30 All models of the ARGO are equipped with an in-line fuel filter oz (.85L) of 80 W 90 Gear Lube HYPOY-C. Oil capacity for all...
  • Page 31: Oil Filter

    If the lubricant is not dry, use of the vehicle will attract dirt the fuel tank. On all other Argo models the fuel filter is located and cause damage to the clutch components.
  • Page 32: Idler Chain Lubrication

    Allow the idler chains to dry thoroughly, re-lubricate more frequently if the vehicle is operated in dirty or wet condi- them generously with Argo chain lube and re-install. Refer to tions (Figure 6-8). Use only ARGO Chain Lube (ARGO Part section 7.2.5 of this manual for idler chain removal and re-...
  • Page 33: Idler Shaft Bearing Lubrication - All Models

    The inner axle flanges are equipped with a grease nipple. ( Figure 6-13) Lubricate the bearings with a small amount of a Alternatively, ARGO Part# 658-16 Right Angle Coupler, can lithium based, NLGI #2 or 3 mineral oil based grease, (such as be used to access these fittings (also sold at automotive sup- Shell Alvania #3).
  • Page 34: Maintenance Information

    Connect negative cable last, disconnect first. It is not a recommended practice to boost your argo if the battery is dead. If possible, avoid the use of booster cables from an external battery source. Damage can occur to the engine ignition system.
  • Page 35: Cleaning The Battery

    7.1.3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FUSES 6. Take out the screen-type spark arrester assembly. All models of the ARGO are equipped with push-in type auto- motive fuses. The fuses protect the electrical circuits of the 7. Shake loose particles out of the screen assembly.
  • Page 36: Drive Belt Removal

    • it becomes contaminated with oil or some other fluid Refer to the ARGO Parts Manual for correct drive belt part number. To Remove the Drive Belt (All CB, C, RB, R, BF, B, SN, N, S and A models) 1.
  • Page 37: Clutch Maintenance

    Disassembly and repair of the driver and driven clutch re- • the chain climbs the sprocket teeth, especially noticeable quires special tools. Return the vehicle to an ARGO dealer if when turning. the clutch units need servicing. The following indicates that...
  • Page 38: Drive Chain Take-Up System

    Some drive chains have no slack, and replacement of the connecting link is difficult without this tool. Modi- fied Vice Grips can be ordered from your ARGO dealer (ARGO Part No. 658-08) or refer to Appendix 1 for modification information.
  • Page 39: Removal Of Slider Blocks

    7.2.5 IDLER CHAIN illustrated in Figure 7-13. All ARGO vehicles are equipped with 2 idler chains to transfer 4. Place a new slider block over the shaft of the cam assem- power from the output shafts of the transmission to the drive bly.
  • Page 40: Idler Chain Adjustment

    SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION Figure 7-16. Location of power pack clamping nuts and adjusting bolts Idler Chain Replacement Replacement of the idler chains is required if the adjustment bolt is fully extended and idler chain deflection still exceeds 3 mm (1/8"). Figure 7-15.
  • Page 41: Installation Of Idler Chains

    7.2.8 AXLE BEARING MOUNTING els only). The axles are mounted to the Argo using special cork gaskets NOTE: Use a pair of modified 7R Vice Grips to hold the ends of between the flanged bearings and the outside surface of the the chain together while inserting the connecting link.
  • Page 42: Mechanical Brakes - Vanguard

    SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 7.3 MECHANICAL BRAKES - 6x6 VANGUARD • the total clearance between the brake pads and the brake disc exceeds .010". 7.3.1 GENERAL To adjust the brake calipers: Periodic inspection and adjustment of the mechanical brake system is required to maintain optimum vehicle performance.
  • Page 43: Steering Lever Adjustment

    Alter- 4. If the steering lever grip is approximately 18 cm (7") from natively, an ARGO dealer will replace brake pads for you. the dash, the holding brake system is correctly adjusted.
  • Page 44: Brake Fluid Level

    (All Hydraulic Brake Fluid Models Except Use only SILICONE - DOT5 BRAKE FLUID. Other brake fluid may not be compatible with ARGO brake compo- Avenger) nents and operating temperatures. Use of other fluids will void the warranty.
  • Page 45: Brake Pad Inspection Procedure

    SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION Brake Pad Inspection Procedure With the firewall removed, both hydraulic brake calipers are visible. Each caliper has 2 brake pads which are secured by cotter pins (Figure 7-27). Inspect all 4 brake pads. Replace the pads when: •...
  • Page 46: Re-Installation Of Firewall

    1/4 turn to lock. If the holding brake system is too tight, excessive pres- sure in the brake system will damage the seals. 5. Reinstall the shifting lever boot. Do NOT operate the ARGO with the firewall removed.
  • Page 47: Brake Plunger Adjustment

    SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 7.4.7 BRAKE PLUNGER ADJUSTMENT (All CB, C, RB, R, 5. Pull back the rubber boot on both master cylinders at the BF, B, SN, N, and A models) plunger pin. IMPOR IMPOR T T T T T ANT IMPOR IMPOR IMPOR...
  • Page 48: Engine Cooling & Exhaust System

    DO NOT ALLOW ANYONE TO TOUCH THE EXHAUST COMPONENTS. A SEVERE BURN CAN RESULT. An annual complete check over of your ARGO vehicle is recommended. This will reduce maintenance costs over the life of your vehicle and ensure it will function...
  • Page 49: Maintenance Schedule

    The intervals shown on the schedule are based on average operating conditions. Vehicles which are subjected to severe use and wet or dusty conditions will require more frequent servicing. Use only Argo replacement parts to ensure safe operation of the vehicle and to comply with the warranty coverage.
  • Page 50: Troubleshooting

    2. Battery charge low or dead 2. Recharge battery or replace as necessary 3. Faulty starter motor 3. Return the vehicle to an Argo dealer for servicing Engine turns over but will not 1. Engine is cold and choke is not pulled 1.
  • Page 51 MALFUNCTION PROBABLE CAUSE CORRECTIVE ACTION (SYMPTOM) Severe vibration when vehicle 1. Engine loose on mounts 1. Take vehicle to an Argo dealer for is operated service. 2. Driver or driven clutch or engine 2. Same as above. defective 3. Axle bent 3.
  • Page 52: Cleaning And Storage

    Read the engine operator’s manual and carry out all recom- mended storage procedures. Add fuel stabilizer (ARGO Part No. 127-77) to the fuel tank and fill with fresh gasoline. Run the engine for a few minutes to allow the treated fuel to reach the carburetor.
  • Page 53: Potential Hazards

    Argo. operate this vehicle. the Argo safely and may be involved in an accident causing severe injury or death. Operating or riding as Wear an approved safety helmet and eye...
  • Page 54 WHAT CAN HAPPEN HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD HAZARD Operating or driving If you lose control of the Argo in water and it All occupants must wear an approved personal the Argo in water capsizes and sinks, the driver and passengers...
  • Page 55 POTENTIAL WHAT CAN HAPPEN HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD HAZARD Use of improper tires on the Argo, or operation Always use the size and type tires specified in Operating the Argo of the Argo with improper or uneven tire this Operator’s Manual for this Argo. Always...
  • Page 56 Opera- tor’s Manual. Skidding or sliding. You may lose control of the Argo. You may also Learn to safely control skidding or sliding by regain traction unexpectedly which may cause practising at slow speeds and on level, smooth the Argo to overturn.
  • Page 57: Accessory Information

    11.2 CARGO TIE DOWNS (Part No. 614-06) Cargo tie downs are intended to assist in securing a load in the rear compartment of any Argo. Use rope or elastic cords, laced over the load and through the tie down rings, to hold the load in place.
  • Page 58 Over inflation of the tires will cause excessive and pre- mature wear of the tires and ARGO track system, and 6. Deflate the front and rear tires for easier installation of the may cause axle and/or axle bearing damage. Under final track pin.
  • Page 59: Removal Of Argo Tracks

    11.3.4 Standard Tracks speed turns when the Argo is heavily loaded. Standard Tracks are intended to extend the use of the Argo so 11.3.2 Removal of Argo Tracks that it can be driven over softer terrain conditions such as mud, swamp, muskeg and snow.
  • Page 60: Outboard Motor Support (Part No. 618-00)

    618-00 bracket. If an Argo amphibi- ous trailer must be towed in water, use 618-10 side mount The power winch mounts to the front of the Argo and can be outboard motor bracket instead of 617-00/618-00 combination.
  • Page 61 SECTION 11 ACCESSORY INFORMATION and the strain on the wire rope by approximately 50%. Figure 11-6 Double Line Figure 11-8 Incorrect and correct hook-up 2. Periodically check the winch installation to assure that all It is a good idea to lay a heavy blanket or jacket over the bolts are tight.
  • Page 62: Tips For Extending The Life Of Your Winch

    16. Do not use the winch to hold the Argo in place during transportation. Use tie-down straps. 17. Maintain at least five turns of wire rope around wire rope drum to prevent the wire rope from pulling off under load.
  • Page 63: Handrail Kits (Part No. 639-20 & 839-20)

    24" high x 48" wide laminated safety glass. It The convertible top provides protection from the elements for mounts to the top of the dash area of any Argo model, folds the occupants and offers the option of rolling up or removing...
  • Page 64: Alternator Kits (Part Nos. 650-60, 850-60 & 850-40)

    11.19 AMPHIBIOUS TRAILER (Part No. 695-75) The Argo four wheel amphibious trailer is designed as an ad- ditional cargo carrier for any Argo model. It is not intended for the transportation of people. Trailer load capacity is 600 lbs or If this decal is not attached to the windshield, contact your 270 kgs at a recommended tire pressure of 4 psi.
  • Page 65: Roll Over Protective Structures (Part Nos. 848-40-2 & 848-40-4)

    11.23 DUMP BOX KIT (Part Nos. 835-00 & 835-01) The ROPS has been designed to meet the requirements of the The dump box kit can be installed on any Argo 8 x 8. It im- Occupational Health and Safety Act - Regulation 856 ‘Roll- proves the load carrying versatility of the Argo.
  • Page 66: Dump Box Operating Guidelines

    11.24 ROLL BAR KIT (Part No. 648-15) The roll bar is designed for use on all Argo 6 x 6 models. The This outlet is NOT designed to support nor should it be roll bar provides some roll over protection and lap belts for the used as a cigarette lighter socket.
  • Page 67: Appendix 1

    APPENDIX 1 SPECIAL TOOLS 7R VICE GRIP MODIFICATION As detailed in Section 7, a pair of modified 7R Vice Grips is required to hold the ends of the drive chain together while inserting the connecting link. This tool can also be used to hold the ends of the idler chain together while inserting the connecting link.
  • Page 68 NOTES...
  • Page 69 NOTES...
  • Page 70 NOTES...
  • Page 71 ARGO vehicle or its sale and no agent, employee or other person has any authority to vary any of the foregoing provisions. Provided, however, that this clause shall be severable where voided by...
  • Page 72 ARGO RETAILER... Please complete this page at the time of sale to the new owner so your customer has all pertinent information that may be required. ARGO MODEL __________________________________________________ ARGO SERIAL NO. _______________________________________________ ENGINE SERIAL NO. _____________________________________________ TRANSMISSION SERIAL NO. _______________________________________...

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