Page 1
2023 OPERATOR’S MANUAL Xplorer XC 90 Note: Table of Contents is linked. Simply click on the desired section and the link will appear. TOC on the bottom of each page will return you to the Table of Contents. This vehicle is not a toy and is intented for use by children at least 12 years old.
Page 2
Read this manual before you operate your ARGO ATV. It contains safe operating instructions and warns the user about potential hazards that can result in personal injury. Warnings are identifi ed in the text by the following symbol: WARNING Warning text warns the user about potential hazards that can result in personal injury or death.
Page 3
This manual describes the controls, operation and basic maintenance procedures for the ARGO ATV from date of printing. Please take the time to read this manual carefully, for your safety and that of others. By following these instructions, you will ensure extended, trouble free operation of your ATV.
TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION I - Introduction Introduction ......................1 Getting Acquainted With Your ATV ..............3 SECTION 2 - Safety Information Safety Information ....................5 Warnings ......................10 Hangtags and Warning Labels ................. 19 SECTION 3 - Specifi cations Specifi...
Page 5
No Modifi cations ....................36 For Off -Road Use Only ..................36 Ride Only When Visibility is Good ..............36 Remote Engine Stop Switch for New Riders ............ 37 Braking ......................37 Sliding or Skidding .................... 37 Turning Your ATV ....................38 Climbing Uphill....................
Page 6
Sliding or Skidding .................... 57 Crossing Roads ....................57 Cold Weather Operation ................... 57 Stopping the ATV ....................58 Stopping the Engine ..................58 SECTION 8 - General Maintenance General Maintenance ..................59 Maintenance Schedule ..................60 Engine Oil - Checking ..................61 Engine Oil - Change Oil Filter Cleaning............
Proper setup, maintenance and safe operating practices will help you get years of satisfactory use from this ATV. Your safety and the safety of all ARGO users is of the greatest concern to us. You will fi nd numerous safety statements in this manual. Please read and follow them carefully.
Page 9
PLEASE TAKE A FEW MOMENTS TO GET ACQUAINTED WITH YOUR ATV BY READING THIS OWNER’S MANUAL NOTE: The manufacturer DISCLAIMS LIABILITY FOR ERRORS IN THIS MANUAL, and SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES resulting from the use of the information and material in this manual. Name: ________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________ Telephone: ____________________________________...
GETTING ACQUAINTED WITH YOUR ATV This manual will provide you with a good basic understanding of the features and operation of this ATV. This manual includes important safety information. It provides information about special techniques and skills necessary to ride the ATV. It also includes basic maintenance and inspection procedures.
Page 11
Emissions Warranty section of this Owner's Manual or visit our website. ARGO WANTS YOU TO BE SATISFIED WITH YOUR NEW ATV. IF YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND ANY PART OF THIS MANUAL OR ARE NOT SATISFIED WITH THE SERVICE RECEIVED, PLEASE TAKE THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS: Discuss the matter with your dealership service manager.
Safety Institute at: U.S. - 1-800-887-2887 or Canada - 1-613-739-1535 to fi nd out about a training course nearest you. Visit www.atvsafety.org to register for free ATV safety training. ARGO is off ering a $100 incentive for completion of the ASI approved safety training.
Page 13
Practice turning at slow speeds before attempting to turn at faster speeds. Do not turn at excessive speed. • Always have the ATV inspected by an authorized ARGO dealer if it has been involved in any type of accident. •...
Page 14
An ATV is NOT a Toy and Can Be Hazardous To Operate IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO PARENTS Your child’s safety is very important to ARGO. That is why we urge you to read this message before you let any young rider operate this ATV. Off -road riding can be fun.
Page 15
16 years old will have adult supervision. Your youngster should understand that the decision to lend the ATV is yours. ARGO recommends the use of the below safety gear before operation: Clothing and Gear While riding your ATV, you will fi nd it important to dress correctly to prevent personal injury.
Page 16
An ATV is NOT a Toy and Can Be Hazardous To Operate Boots/Ankle Protection Choose a boot that protects the largest possible of your leg (preferable up to your knee) and can handle impact of rocks, dirt or branches. Choose a boot that has low heel and a good tread will help prevent your feet from slipping off...
Warnings WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD Failure to follow the age recommendations for this ATV. Failure to supervise children under the age of 16 on ATV models intended for their use. WHAT CAN HAPPEN If children use ATVs that are not recommended for their age, severe injury or death can result.
Page 18
Warnings POTENTIAL HAZARD Carrying a passenger on this ATV. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Greatly reduces your ability to balance and control this ATV. Could cause an accident, resulting in personal injury or death to you and/or your passenger. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Never carry a passenger.
Page 19
Warnings POTENTIAL HAZARD Operating this ATV without wearing an approved motorcycle helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Operating without an approved helmet increases your chances of a severe head injury or death in the event of an accident. Operating without eye protection can result in an accident and increases your chances of a severe injury in the event of an accident.
Page 20
Warnings POTENTIAL HAZARD Attempting wheelies, jumps and other stunts. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Increases the chance of losing control of the ATV, which can result in an accident. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Never attempt stunts, such as wheelies or jumps. Don’t try to show off . POTENTIAL HAZARD Failing to keep hands on handlebars or feet on footrests during operation.
Page 21
Warnings POTENTIAL HAZARD Operating on steep hills. WHAT CAN HAPPEN This ATV can overturn more easily on steep hills than on level surfaces. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Never operate this ATV on hills too steep for the ATV or for your abilities. Practice on smaller hills before attempting larger hills.
Page 22
Warnings POTENTIAL HAZARD Going down a hill improperly. WHAT CAN HAPPEN You may lose control, which could result in an accident. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Always follow proper procedures for going down hills. Always check the terrain carefully before you start down any hill.
Page 23
Warnings POTENTIAL HAZARD Operating the ATV in deep or fast fl owing water. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Tires may fl oat, causing loss of traction and loss of control, which could result in an accident. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Never operate the ATV in fast fl owing water or in water deeper than the footrests.
Page 24
Warnings POTENTIAL HAZARD Failure to release the parking brake before operating the ATV. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Operating the ATV with the parking brake engaged could cause a change in handling or loss of brakes and cause an accident. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Always release the parking brake before operating the ATV.
Page 25
Warnings POTENTIAL HAZARD Operating in areas where you might not be seen by other off -road ATV’s. WHAT CAN HAPPEN You may be in a collision which may result in personal injury. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Always mount a caution fl ag on the ATV to make you more visible.
The hangtags and labels are considered to be a permanent part of the ATV. If a label becomes hard to read or comes off the vehicle, contact your ARGO ATV dealer for a replacement.
Page 27
Hangtags and Warning Labels General Use Hangtag Front Reverse side Emissions Hangtag Front Reverse side...
SECTION 3 Specifi cations Specifi cations ENGINE AND DRIVE Type Four-Cycle/OHC/Air Cooled Bore x Stroke 47 x 51.8 mm (1.85 x 1.62 in.) Displacement 89.9 cc (5.5 cu in.) Cylinder arrangement Single cylinder Compression ratio 10.0:1 Carburetor PTE (Auto Bystarter) Starting system Electric / Kick Lubrication system...
Page 31
MISCELLANEOUS Basic Weight (with oil and full fuel tank) 270.6 lbs (123 kg) Gas Tank Capacity (Rated) 1.38 gal (5.3 L) Gas Tank Reserve Capacity 0.38 gal (1.5 L) Gasoline (Recommended) 87 Octane Regular Unleaded API Service SE, SF, SG type or higher Engine Oil (Recommended) Change - 0.74 qt (0.7 L) Engine Oil Capacity (Approximate)
These numbers are required by the dealer to complete any Warranty process. No warranty will be allowed by ARGO if the VIN or ESN has been tampered with in any way. (1) Frame serial number (1) Engine serial number...
Page 33
Location of Parts and Controls 6. Remote engine stop switch 7. Storage compartment, containing: Owner’s Manual Air pressure gauge Tool kit 8. Exhaust pipe 9. Taillight / Stop light 10. Rear wheel 11. Seat lock lever 12. Oil fi ller cap / dipstick 13.
Control Functions Ignition Switch Functions of the respective switch positions are as follows: “OFF” position: All electrical circuits are switched off . The key can be removed in this position. “ON” position: The taillight can be turned on. With the engine stop switch at “RUN”, the engine can be started.
Control Functions Headlight Switch The headlight switch has two position Low beam headlight locations - low beam and high beam. The headlights will illuminate when turning the ignition key to the “ON” High beam headlight position.. Starter Button To start the engine, turn engine stop switch to the “RUN” position, turn ignition switch to the “ON”...
Check the operation before you start the engine. If it does not work smoothly, check for the cause. Correct the problem before riding the ATV. Consult an authorized ARGO dealer if you can not locate or solve the issue yourself. Speed Limiter The speed limiter keeps the throttle from fully opening, even when the throttle lever is pushed to the maximum.
Control Functions Front Brake Lever The front brakes are operated by squeezing the front brake lever. Front brake lever Rear Brake Lever The rear brakes are operated by squeezing the rear brake lever. Rear brake lever Parking Brake Lever Lock To set the parking brake, squeeze the front brake lever and lock it with the lock pin.
Control Functions Fuel Tank Cap After refueling, be sue to tighten the fuel tank cap. To refuel, refer to page 45. Fuel Valve The fuel valve supplies fuel from the fuel tank to the carburetor. The fuel valve has three positions: OFF: With the fuel lever pointing towards the left, fuel will not fl...
Control Functions Gear Selector = Forward gear = Neutral gear = Reverse gear Gear selector WARNING To change gears, stop the ATV and, with the engine idling, move the gear selector lever to the desired gear. Do not attempt to shift gears with the engine speed above idle or while the ATV is moving.
Control Functions 3. To shift into neutral from either forward or reverse gear, push or pull the gear selector lever to the center position. 4. When in the neutral position with the ignition switch in the “ON” position, the neutral indicator light will illuminate. WARNING Always come to a complete stop with engine at idle before moving the shift lever.
Control Functions Storage Compartment The storage compartment is located under the seat. To remove the seat, see page 33. Be careful not to fl ood this area when washing your ATV or riding through water, and never put any electric conduction material in the storage compartment.
SECTION 5 Getting to Know Your ATV Getting To Know Your ATV This ATV is for recreation use. This section, riding your ATV, provides general ATV riding instructions for recreational riding. The skills and techniques described in this section, however, are appropriate for all types of riding. Riding your ATV requires special skills acquired through practice over a period of time.
(Including weight of operator, cargo and accessories). Accessories Genuine ARGO accessories have been specifi cally designed for and tested on this vehicle. Because ARGO cannot test all other accessories, you are personally responsible for properly selecting, installing, and using non- ARGO accessories.
Getting To Know Your ATV Remote Engine Stop Switch For New Riders The ATV has a remote engine stop switch (tethered cord). This allows the supervisor to follow close behind and stop the engine by pulling a tethered cord. Practice using it when your youngster fi...
Getting To Know Your ATV Sliding or Skidding (continued) If the rear wheels of your ATV start to slide sideways, control can usually be regained (if there is room to do so) by steering in the direction of the slide. Applying the brakes or accelerating is not recommended until you have corrected the slide.
Getting To Know Your ATV Climbing Uphill Use proper riding techniques to avoid vehicle overturns on hills. Be sure that you can maneuver your ATV well on fl at ground before attempting any incline and then practice riding fi rst on gentle slopes. Try more diffi cult climbs only after you have developed your skill.
Getting To Know Your ATV Riding Downhill When riding your ATV downhill, shift your weight as far to the rear and uphill side of the ATV as possible. Move back on the seat and sit with your arms straight. Improper braking may cause a loss of traction.
Getting To Know Your ATV WHAT TO DO IF This section is designed to be a reference guide only. Be sure to read each section on riding techniques completely. WHAT TO DO..If your ATV doesn't turn when you want it to: Bring the ATV to a stop and practice the turning maneuvers again.
Operation - Before You Ride Before operating this ATV, check the following points: ITEM ROUTINE • Check fuel level in fuel tank and add recommended fuel if Fuel necessary. • Check fuel line for leakage. Correct if necessary. • Check oil level in engine and add recommended oil to Engine Oil specifi...
Always check the brakes at the start of every ride. Do not ride the ATV if you fi nd any problem with the brakes. If a problem cannot be corrected by the adjustment procedures provided in this manual, have the ATV inspected by an authorized ARGO dealer. Fuel Fill the fuel tank when necessary and make sure there is suffi...
Operation - Before You Ride Your ARGO engine has been designed to use regular unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 86 or higher. If knocking or pinging occurs, use a diff erent brand of gasoline or premium unleaded fuel. Unleaded fuel will give you longer spark plug life and reduced maintenance cost.
Fittings and Fasteners Always check chassis fi ttings and fasteners to ensure they are tight and secure. Take the ATV to an authorized ARGO dealer or refer to the Service Manual for correct torque specifi cations. Lights Check the headlight and taillight to ensure they are in proper operating condition.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN Loss of control, increasing the risk of an accident or injury. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Read the Owner’s Manual carefully. If there is a control or function you do not understand, contact an authorized ARGO dealer.
Operation - Before You Ride Starting a Cold Engine - Electric Starter 1. Select a level surface and lock the parking brake (see page 30) before starting the engine. 2. Turn the fuel lever to ON. 3. Turn the engine stop switch to the RUN position, turn the ignition switch to ON. 4.
Operation - Before You Ride Starting a Warm Engine To start a warm engine, refer to the “Starting a Cold Engine” section. Warming Up Engine To get maximum engine life, always warm up the engine. Never accelerate hard with a cold engine! To see whether or not the engine is warm, check if it responds to the throttle normally.
SECTION 7 Operation Always wear the following to reduce risk of injury in an accident: • Approved motorcycle helmet that fi ts properly. • Eye protection (goggles, helmet face shield or protective eyewear) • Over the ankle boots, gloves, long sleeved shirt or jacket and long pants. An approved helmet and other personal protective equipment can reduce the severity of injuries in an accident.
Operation 8. Allow the engine to properly warm up. If the engine has not reached proper operating temperature, the spark plug may not have reached a high enough temperature to burn off the excess fuel in the combustion chamber. CAUTION If unburned fuel remains in the combustion chamber due to lack of run time, spark plug fouling may occur during the next starting attempt.
Operation Turning Your ATV WARNING Always follow proper procedures for turning as described in this Owner’s Manual. Practice turning at low speeds before attempting to turn at faster speeds. Do not turn at speeds too fast for your skills or the conditions. ATV could go out of control causing a collision or overturn.
Operation Climbing Uphill WARNING Climbing hills improperly can cause overturns or loss of control. Use proper riding techniques described in this Owner’s Manual. Do not attempt to climb hills until you have mastered basic maneuvers on fl at ground. Always check the terrain carefully before attempting any hill.
Operation Riding Down Hill WARNING Going down a hill improperly could cause overturns or loss of control. Always follow proper procedures for going down hills as described in this Owner’s Manual. When riding your ATV downhill, shift your weight as far to the rear and uphill side of the ATV as possible.
Operation Crossing Through Shallow Water WARNING Operating this vehicle through deep or fast fl owing water can lead to loss of control or an overturn. To reduce your risk of drowning or other injuries, use care when crossing through water. Never operate this ATV water deeper than the depth specifi ed in your Owner’s Manual, as tires may fl...
Operation Sliding and Skidding WARNING Skidding or sliding improperly may cause you to lose control of this ATV. You may also regain traction unexpectedly, which may cause the ATV to overturn. Care should be used when riding on loose or slippery surfaces since the ATV may slide.
Operation 3. If the brakes are frozen, move the ATV to a warm location to thaw out the brakes. WARNING For your personal safety, do not attempt to free frozen brakes by pouring warm water on the brakes. NOTE: After the brakes have thawed, dry them by compressing the brake lever several times while riding slowly.
You may choose any qualifi ed repair shop or person to maintain, replace, or repair emission control devices and systems with original or equivalent replacement parts. However, warranty, recall and all other services paid for by Argo USA must be performed at an authorized Argo USA service center which will complete repairs in a reasonable amount of time.
Maintenance Schedule INITIAL EVERY Item month months months months year Air Filter Clean. Replace if necessary. Brake System Check operation. Adjust if necessary. Carburetor Check idle speed / starter operation. Adjust if necessary. Drive Belt Check operation. Replace if damage or excessive wear.
General Maintenance Engine Oil - Checking Check engine oil level. The engine should always be warm. 1. Park the ATV on level ground. NOTE: Wait a few minutes until the oil settles before checking oil level. 2. Remove the oil level stick and wipe it off with a clean cloth.
General Maintenance Engine Oil - Change Oil Filter Cleaning (continued) CAUTION Ensure no foreign material enters the crankcase. When removing the drain plug, the compression spring, oil strainer and O-ring will fall out. Be careful not to lose these items. 4.
Do not attempt to diagnose such problems yourself. Instead, take the machine to an authorized ARGO dealer. You should periodically remove and inspect the spark plug because heat and deposits will cause the spark plug to slowly break down and erode.
The correct valve clearance changes with use, resulting in improper fuel/air supply or engine noise. To prevent this, the valve clearance must be adjusted regularly. This adjustment however, should be left to an authorized ARGO service technician. Shock Absorbers Each shock absorber should be visibly checked weekly for excessive fl uid leakage (some seal leakage may be observed but does not indicate the shock is in need of replacement), cracks or breaks in the lower case, or a bent shock rod.
If the lining thickness is below the wear limit of 0.08 in (2.0 mm), replace the brake shoes as a set. These procedures should be performed by an authorized ARGO dealer. 1. Lining (A) Lining thickness...
A wear indicator is provided on each brake. The indicators allow checking of brake pad wear. Check the position of the indicator. If the indicator reaches the wear limit line, consult an authorized ARGO dealer to replace the brake pads. 1. Wear indicator 2. Rear brake...
Make sure the brakes operate smoothly and the free play is correct. Make sure the brakes do not drag. Replacement of brake components require professional knowledge. These procedures should be performed by an authorized ARGO dealer. Brake Fluid Inspection Check if the fl uid level is below the lower level mark through the inspection window.
General Maintenance CAUTION • To prevent damage to the brake system, use only fl uid from a sealed container. Never allow contaminates (dirt, water, etc.) to enter the brake fl uid reservoir. • Brake fl uid can damage paint and plastic, so handle the fl uid with care. When adding brake fl...
Cable Inspection and Lubrication Recommended Lubrication: SAE 10W40 motor oil Lubricate the inner cables and the cable ends. If the cables do not operate smoothly, see an authorized ARGO dealer to replace them. WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD Damaged control cables. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Corrosion can result when the outer covering of control cables becomes damaged.
If the battery seems weak, see your authorized ARGO dealer for information on recharging or replacement. If you replace the battery, choose one that is sealed and equivalent to the original.
General Maintenance NOTE: • When the ATV is to be stored for an extended period, remove the battery from the vehicle and charge it fully. Then store it in a cool, dry place. If the battery is to be left on the vehicle, disconnect the negative cable from the battery terminal. •...
Jump-Starting NOTE: ARGO does not recommend jump-starting a vehicle with a dead battery but rather to remove the battery, service it, and correctly charge it; however, in an emergency, it may be necessary to jump-start an ATV. If so, use the following procedure to carefully and safely complete this procedure.
Page 80
General Maintenance WARNING Any time service is performed on a battery, the following must be observed: keep sparks, open fl ame, cigarettes, or any other fl ame away. Always wear safety glasses. Protect skin and clothing when handling a battery. When servicing battery in enclosed space, keep the area well- ventilated.
Fuse Replacement When frequent fuse failure occurs, it usually indicates a short circuit or an overload in the electrical system. See your authorized ARGO dealer for repair. CAUTION To prevent accidental short-circuiting, turn off the ignition switch before checking or replacing a fuse.
General Maintenance Fuse Holder Specifi ed Fuse: 7A The fuse holder is located in the storage box under the seat. 1. Remove the seat. 2. Open the fuse holder and lift out the fuse with the clips. 3. Slide the old fuse out of the clips and 1.
General Maintenance Spark Arrester Cleaning Be sure the exhaust pipe and muffl er are cool before cleaning the spark arrester. 1. Remove the bolt. 2. Remove the tailpipe by pulling it out of the muffl er. 3. Tap the tailpipe lightly, then use a wire brush to remove any carbon deposits from the spark arrester portion of the tailpipe..
General Maintenance NOISE REGULATION TAMPERING WITH NOISE CONTROL SYSTEM PROHIBITED: Federal law prohibits the following acts or the causing thereof: (1) The removal or rendering inoperative by any person other than for purposes of maintenance, repair, or replacement of any device or element of design incorporated into any new vehicle for the purpose of noise control prior to its sale or delivery to the ultimate purchaser or while it is in use or (2) the use of the vehicle after such device or element of design has been removed or rendered inoperative by any person.
Troubleshooting Engine doesn’t turn over Possible Cause Solution Tripped circuit breaker Reset the breaker Low battery voltage Recharge battery to 12.5 VDC Loose battery connections Check all connections and ignition Loose solenoid connections Check all connections and ignition Engine turns over but fails to start Possible Cause Solution Out of fuel...
Page 86
Troubleshooting Possible Cause Solution Low battery voltage Recharge battery to 12.5 VDC Kinked or plugged fuel vent line Inspect and replace Incorrect fuel Replace with recommended fuel Clogged air fi lter Inspect, clean or replace Other mechanical failure See your dealer Possible lean mixture fuel cause Low or contaminated fuel Add or change fuel, clean fuel system...
SECTION 9 Preparation For Storage CAUTION Prior to storing your ATV, it must be properly serviced to prevent rusting and component deterioration. Cleaning the Vehicle Frequent, thorough cleaning of your ATV will not only enhance its appearance but will improve its general performance and extend the useful life of many components. 1.
Page 89
Storage Short Term Always store your ATV in a cool, dry place and if necessary, protect it against dust with a porous cover. WARNING Storing the ATV in a poorly ventilated room or covering it with a tarp while it is still wet, will allow water and humidity to seep in and cause rust.
The warranty is validated upon examination of said parts by ARGO or an authorized ARGO dealer. ARGO reserves the right to inspect such parts at its factory for fi nal determination if warranty should apply. ARGO will repair or replace, at its option (including any related labor charges), any parts that are found to be warrantable in material or workmanship.
Page 91
If a warrantable condition appears to exist, the dealer will repair or replace, at ARGO’s option, including any related labor costs, all parts that are found to be warrantable and any other parts which the warrantable part caused to be damaged.
EPA EMISSIONS CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY: Xplorer XC 90 LIMITED WARRANTIES EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS: ARGO warrants to the owner of any 2023 and subsequent model year ATV that the ATV is designed, built and equipped to conform at the time of sale with all applicable emission standards and is free from defects in materials and workmanship which would cause it to fail to conform with applicable requirements during the specifi...
Page 93
Emissions Warranty Coverage: This warranty begins on the date the ATV is delivered to the fi rst purchaser, or the date it is fi rst used as a demonstrator, lease, or company ATV, whichever comes fi rst and continues for the time and mileage listed below: Time 30 months Mileage 2,500 kilometers (1,550 miles) Warranted Parts:...
Page 96
WARNING Improper ATV use can result in SEVERE INJURY or DEATH. ALWAYS USE NEVER USE NEVER CARRY NEVER USE AN APPROVED ON PUBLIC PASSENGERS WITH DRUGS HELMET AND ROADS OR ALCOHOL PROTECTIVE GEAR NEVER operate: • without proper training or instruction •...
Need help?
Do you have a question about the Xplorer XC 90 2023 and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers