Braking - Arctic Cat 2014 SNO PRO 500 Operator's Manual

! WARNING
Do not start the engine if the brake system is not func-
tioning properly (if the lever feels spongy, if the brake
lever can be compressed to within 2.54 cm (1 in.) of
the handlebar, or if the brake fluid level is not correct).
Service the brake system or have it properly repaired
prior to operating the snowmobile. Serious personal
injury or even death may occur if the brake system is
not operating properly.
3. Test the throttle control lever by completely com-
pressing and releasing it several times. The lever
MUST return to the idle position quickly and com-
pletely.
CAUTION
Always check the coolant level before starting the
engine.
4. Move the emergency stop switch to the RUN posi-
tion.
5. Assure that the tether switch cap is secured to the
tether switch.
6. Pull the recoil handle slowly until resistance is
felt; then give a short quick pull. Repeat until the
engine starts.
CAUTION
To avoid damaging the recoil starter, DO NOT pull the
recoil rope to its limit or release the recoil handle from
an extended position. Allow the rope to rewind slowly.
7.
When the engine starts, allow it to warm up properly.
Idle the engine several minutes until the engine has
reached normal operating temperature. Do not idle the
engine for excessively long periods of time.
CAUTION
It is extremely important that the engine is properly
warmed up before subjecting the engine to high speed
operation or heavy loads. Do not idle the engine for
excessively long periods of time. The engine should
be allowed to idle at least 1-2 minutes before it is oper-
ated at more than 1/2 throttle. In extremely cold condi-
tions, the warm-up time will be longer. Cold seizure
and piston scuffing caused by insufficient warm-up
will not be covered by warranty. Also, do not idle the
engine for excessively long periods of time.
8. Flooding —
If the engine does not start but seems
ready to start, engage the brake lever lock; then com-
press the throttle control lever fully and try to start the
engine. When the engine starts, release the throttle con-
trol lever immediately. After the warm-up, release the
brake lever lock.
NOTE: If the engine fails to start during the
attempt with the throttle control lever compressed,
remove the spark plugs and clean and dry them
thoroughly or install a new set of properly gapped,
recommended spark plugs.
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9. To shut off the engine, either depress the emer-
gency stop switch to the OFF position or pull the
tether switch cap off the tether switch.

BRAKING

Operating a snowmobile with hydraulic brakes is dif-
ferent from operating a snowmobile with mechanical
brakes. The following items are items that the operator
must be familiar with when operating this snowmobile
and its hydraulic brake system.
NOTE: Important additional information on the
proper maintenance of the brake system is found
in the maintenance section of this manual.
1. Use the brakes wisely. Each time the brakes are
applied in all hydraulic brake systems (including
automotive applications), heat is transferred to the
brake fluid. The amount of heat transferred during
high speed stops and/or repetitive use may be high
enough to boil the brake fluid and cause the brakes
to either fade or may cause an unexpected loss of
brakes. If this occurs, the brake fluid requires a
cool down period before the brakes will again
function properly. This cool down period will vary
depending upon the ambient air temperature and
the temperature of the brake fluid. If loss of brakes
has occurred because of high fluid temperatures,
do not operate the snowmobile until the cool down
period has expired and brake lever firmness has
returned.
! WARNING
Excessive repetitive use of the hydraulic brake for
high speed stops will cause overheating of the brake
fluid and premature brake pad wear which will result
in an unexpected loss of brakes.
2. Be sure to maintain the brake fluid at the proper
level and take care not to get any moisture in the
system as moisture in the brake fluid lowers the
boiling point. If the brake fluid is ever boiled (by
high speed stops or repetitive use) or if moisture is
allowed to enter the system, it must be changed.
Never substitute or mix different types or grades
of brake fluid.
! WARNING
Use only Arctic Cat approved brake fluid. Never sub-
stitute or mix different types or grades of brake fluid.
Brake loss can result. Check brake fluid level and pad
wear before each use. Brake loss can result in severe
injury or even death.
3. Never ride the brake. Even maintaining minimal
pressure on the brake lever will cause the brake
pads to drag on the disc and may overheat the
brake fluid.