Suspension; Shock Absorbers - Arctic Cat 500 Service Manual

Suspension

The following suspension system components should be
inspected periodically to ensure proper operation.
A. Shock absorber rods not bent, pitted, or damaged.
B. Rubber damper not cracked, broken, or missing.
C. Shock absorber body not damaged, punctured, or
leaking.
D. Shock absorber eyelets not broken, bent, or
cracked.
E. Shock absorber eyelet bushings not worn, deterio-
rated, cracked, or missing.
F. Shock absorber spring not broken or sagging.
SPECIAL TOOL
A special tool must be available to the technician when
performing service procedures in this section.
Description
Spring Tool
 NOTE: Special tools are available from the Arctic
Cat Service Department.

Shock Absorbers

REMOVING
1. Secure the ATV on a support stand to elevate the
wheels and to release load on the suspension.
! WARNING
Make sure the ATV is solidly supported on the support
stand to avoid injury.
2. Remove the two cap screws and nuts securing each
front shock absorber to the frame and the upper
A-arm. Account for bushings and sleeves from each.
Additional support stands are necessary to support the
rear axle when the shock absorbers are removed or
damage may occur.
3. Remove the two cap screws and nut securing each
rear shock absorber to the frame and lower A-arm.
Account for bushings and sleeves from each.
4. Using Spring Tool, compress the shock absorber
spring, remove the retainer, and remove the spring.
p/n
0444-224
CLEANING AND INSPECTING
1. Clean all shock absorber components using a pres-
sure washer.
2. Inspect each shock rod for nicks, pits, rust, bends,
and oily residue.
3. Inspect all springs, spring retainers, shock rods,
sleeves, bushings, shock bodies, and eyelets for
cracks, leaks, and bends.
INSTALLING
1. Place the shock absorber spring over the shock
absorber, compress the spring, and install the
retainer.
AF605D
CAUTION
AF626D
CF341
243