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Your safety and the safety of all ARGO users is of the greatest concern to us. You will find numer- ous 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.
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Read this manual before you operate your ARGO. It contains safe operating instructions and warns the user about potential hazards that can result in personal 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.
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• 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.
AMPHIBIOUS OPERATION .................... 1 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES ................... 1 WIND CHILL FACTOR ....................1 MODEL IDENTIFICATION ..................... 1 1.4.1 Argo Vehicle Capacity ..................2 IDENTIFICATION AND LOCATION OF CONTROLS..........3 INFORMATION LABELS ....................4 GENERAL OPERATING INFORMATION NEW VEHICLE “BREAK-IN” PROCEDURE ..............5 PRE-OPERATION CHECKS ....................
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TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION PAGE 5.6.1 Entering Water ....................15 5.6.2 Driving Procedures in Water ................15 5.6.3 Driving Out of Water ..................15 WINTER OPERATION ....................15 5.7.1 Use on Ice Covered Bodies of Water ..............16 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION ENGINE OIL INFORMATION ..................
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10.0 POTENTIAL HAZARDS ........................37 11.0 ACCESSORY INFORMATION 11.1 GENERAL ........................41 11.2 REAR CARGO TIE-DOWNS (Part No. 849-116) ............41 11.3 ARGO TRACK SYSTEMS (All Season Track Kit & Rubber Track Kit) ......41 11.3.1 Track Installation ....................41...
The last 6 digits of this number Refer to the chart to identify these symptoms. Take immedi- begin with the letter K. ate corrective action or take the vehicle to an Argo dealer for service. This manual does not provide detailed maintenance or servic- ing information for the engine.
Carefully observe the maximum load capacity for your vehicle on land and in water as listed in the following: Do NOT use an Argo on water when equipped with a 8x8 Titan snow plow. The increased weight of the snow plow out Engine: Kohler 748 cc (31 h.p.) V-twin 4 cycle, liquid cooled...
SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION 1.5 IDENTIFICATION AND LOCATION OF CONTROLS Hood Release Engine Access Hood 12 Volt Outlet 12 Volt Outlet Glove Box Glove Box Steering Handle Grab Handle Cup Holder Grab Handle Hand Brake Lever Cup Holder Capacity Plate Accelerator Vehicle Twist Grip...
There are labels on all models which indicate operating hazards and provide special operating instructions. Information about the use of the holding brake system, the use of the vehicle in water, correct fueling procedures and placement of the floorpans has been provided on distinctive coloured labels fastened to the various locations on the Argo. WARNING IMPROPER USE OF THIS VEHICLE CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
6. Do not allow the brakes to drag, particularly during the the tracks and ice cleats, while the ARGO is in motion. first 10 hours of operation. To maximize brake pad life, Serious injury or death could result from getting caught start by making several low speed turns to both sides.
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Argo that may be hot. Also, be aware of hot air exhaust outlets and moving parts. Due to the weight of the ROPS, your vehicle is more likely to rollover on land than a standard Argo vehicle.
Never use gasoline containing methanol or white gas since engine or fuel system damage could occur. The Argo is equipped with a 36 litre (9.5 U.S. Gal.) poly- ethelene fuel tank located under the driver's seat. Depending on loading and driving conditions, an ARGO can be driven for 7 to 12 hours on one tank of fuel.
(Figure 3-3). 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 on the inside of the turn.
Make sure that the neutral start device is repaired and reconnected at the earliest convenienc. The ARGO is equipped with a key operated, electric start system. To start the vehicle, proceed as follows: 3.7 PRIMING PROCEDURE 1.
3.9.1 Changing Transmission Gears The ARGO Titan is equipped with two shift levers. One gearshift lever extends through the firewall and moves left and right. Forward gear is located to the left of neutral and reverse gear to the right of neutral.
Increase speed by gradually turning the accelerator twist grip. It is recommended that the Hi/Low shift The ARGO is a skid steer vehicle. The rear of the vehicle be set in the Low position when operating in reverse.
Engine power and smooth steering is LOW range when tight turns are required. This transmission maintained, point-turn operation is eliminated, allowing for allows the ARGO to tackle a wider range of terrain and op- smooth operation and towing. The elimination of point-turn erating conditions.
5.2 ANGLE OF OPERATION cause the vehicle to roll over frontwards. When operating any Argo vehicle on an angle, (up and down An alternative to applying the brakes while going down a gen- hills or across uneven terrain that causes the vehicle to tilt tle decline is to use engine braking.
4. Do not attempt to navigate any body of water with a strong current. Avoid water operation under windy conditions. 5. Do not use the Argo in water when equipped with tracks unless it is also equipped with an outboard motor. The tracks do not propel the Argo in water.
Steep, snow-covered or icy hills may be more difficult The vehicle is steered by a combination of pulling on the right to ascend. Ice cleat kits (Argo Part No. 825-21) are bar and pushing on the left to steer right or vise-versa to travel available for Rubber Track systems.
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.
SECTION 6 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION 6.1 ENGINE OIL INFORMATION 6.1.2 Recommended Engine Oil Use a high quality detergent oil of API (American Petroleum Institute) service class as listed in chart. Choose the correct Detailed information on standard workshop and safety viscosity of oil for seasonal driving conditions.
SECTION 6 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION 6.2.2 Changing the Transmission Oil PLEASE DISPOSE OF WASTE OIL PROPERLY TO CONSERVE OUR ENVIRONMENT. Change the transmission oil after the first 20 hours of op- eration. After this, change the transmission oil every 150 4.
We recommend that you return Do not use used oils, high tack oils (i.e. chainsaw bar oil), your vehicle to an authorized ARGO dealer to have the clutch heavy oil, or grease.
SECTION 6 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION If the Argo needs to be used in environmentally sensitive areas, consider using a biodegradable oil of the proper viscosity as shown in the chart. TEMPERATURE -40 ~ 0 C 0 ~ 40 C 40 ~ 50 C (-40 ~ 32 deg.
ALWAYS DISCONNECT GROUNDED CABLE disconnect first. It is not a recommended practice to FIRST AND CONNECT IT LAST TO PREVENT boost your Argo if the battery is dead. If possible, DANGEROUS SPARKS. avoid the use of booster cables from an external bat- Perform all work in a well ventilated area.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 4. Install new battery in same position as old one and tighten hold-down. 5. Connect positive (+) cable first. Connect ground cable last. If side terminal connection, use a special side terminal torque tool to tighten side terminal cables to avoid damage. Never overtighten or hammer cables onto terminals.
Be sure vehicles do not touch compartment. Replace any blown fuses. Return your vehicle each other. to an ARGO dealer for inspection of the electrical circuit if a fuse blows repeatedly. 1. Connect one end of positive (+) booster cable to positive (+) terminal of discharged battery, wired to starter or so- 7.1.4 SPARK PLUGS...
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 7.2.1 DRIVE BELT 7.1.5 SPARK ARRESTER Cleaning the Spark Arrester The drive belt transmits power from the driver clutch (on the engine) to the driven clutch (on the transmission). These components are located on the left side of the engine compart- ment (Figure 7-2).
Drive Belt alignment and tension are pre-set at the factory and are not adjustable. They are critical for proper operation of the drive system. Return the vehicle to an ARGO dealer if rapid belt wear occurs. 7.2.2 CLUTCH MAINTENANCE Disassembly and repair of the driver and driven clutch requires special tools.
1. Feed the chain around each sprocket and clamp the free Driven clutch disassembly is required to replace the nylon end with a modified vice grip (ODG part # 658-08). Figure sliders properly. Return the vehicle to an ARGO dealer for 7-4. service.
Argo 25x12.00-9 and Argo HEAT 25x12.00-9 is between 2.5 to 6.0 psi (17 to 41 kPa). Maximum operating pressure is 7 psi (48 kPa). A special low pressure tire gauge (ARGO Part No. 619-10) is available from your ARGO dealer. CHANGING TIRE PRESSURE FOR DIFFERENT TERRAIN CONDITIONS The tire pressure should be adjusted between 2.5 and 7.0 psi...
1. Add only fresh clean SILICONE - DOT 5 BRAKE FLUID the driving terrain, conditions and vehicle specifications. (ARGO Part No. 126-19) to 5/8" (16 mm) from the top edge or half way on sight glass (Figure 7-9). 7.2.6 TIRE REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT Repair a flat tire by removing the tire completely from the rim.
1. Unthread the knurled fastener at the back of the aluminum Figure 7-10. Removing the brake pads from the brake caliper. floor pan and lift the floor pan out of the Argo. 2. Turn the firewall release catch(es) (located at the top of the firewall) counter-clockwise 1/4 turn.
Firewall Removal 1. Unthread the knurled fastener at the back of the aluminum floor pan and lift the floor pan out of the Argo. Do NOT operate the ARGO with the firewall removed. 2. Turn the firewall release catch(es) (located at the top of 7.3.5 EMERGENCY/PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTMENT...
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION lever fully down), you should be able to grab the bottom the piston is between zero and 0.020" (0.5 mm) depth in of the band and wiggle it back and forth on the drum. It the master cylinder. shouldn't feel tight.
An annual complete check over of your ARGO vehicle Inspect the exhaust system periodically for worn or is recommended. This will reduce maintenance costs damaged components.
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.
1. See “Vehicle pulls to right” - substitute right with left Vehicle does not shift into Hi from 1. Hi/Low shift cable adjustment 1. Take the vehicle to an Argo dealer Low or Low from Hi for servicing Handbrake failure 1.
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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.
Preparing the Engine for Storage Read the engine operator’s manual and carry out all recom- Add fuel stabilizer (ARGO Part No. 127-77) to the fuel tank mended storage procedures. and fill with fresh gasoline. Run the engine for a few minutes to allow the treated fuel to reach the carburetor / injectors.
16 to operate skills, abilities, or judgement needed to operate this vehicle. the Argo safely and may be involved in an ac- cident causing severe injury or death. Operating or riding Wear an approved safety helmet and eye protec-...
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WHAT CAN HAPPEN HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD HAZARD Operating or driv- If you lose control of the Argo in water and it All occupants must wear an approved personal ing the Argo in water capsizes and sinks, the driver and passengers...
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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 pres- this Operator’s Manual for this Argo.
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Operator’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.
This section deals with accessories that have been specifically center-line of the tire. Figure 11-1. Write down the designed for the ARGO and can be purchased separately from measurement on each tire. your dealer. Special operating procedures and safety precau- tions must be observed before operating or using certain accessories.
Deflated tires into track Figure 11-4. Re-inflating tires. 11.3.2 Operating Precautions An Argo Titan equipped with rubber tracks (958-88) has a re- duced capacity when operating in water or over frozen bodies of water and when equipped with All-Season tracks (849-150), load capacity is significantly reduced in water or over frozen bodies of water.
However, it is very important that with the Rubber Tracks 11-8. installed, the wheel nuts of the Argo are tightened to 65 Install the tires as shown in the chart (Figure ft. lbs. (88 N.m) initially, re-torqued after the first 10 11-9).
Wheel Position Do not use the Argo in water when equipped with tracks unless it is also equipped with an outboard motor. The tracks do not propel the Argo in water.
SECTION 11 ACCESSORY INFORMATION 11.3.5 Rubber Tracks Rubber tracks are a highly durable belt track design con- structed of rubber. This system has low rolling resistance. Installation Instructions - Rubber Track Systems 1. Install the Hinge Assembly as described in the Rubber Track Kit instructions.
The 4000 lbs. winch mounts permanently to the front of the the track system has been installed indoors at normal room Argo and can be used for self-recovery and to raise and lower temperature, the tires will lose air pressure. After the tires have the snowplow blade (Part No.
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SECTION 11 ACCESSORY INFORMATION to double line the wire rope. (Figure 11-13) This reduces the load on the winch and the strain on the wire rope by approximately 50%. Figure 11-14. Using the Handsaver Bar. NEVER HOOK THE WIRE ROPE BACK ONTO IT- SELF.
SECTION 11 ACCESSORY INFORMATION the winch is under load. 15. When using your winch to move a load, place the vehicle transmission in neutral, set vehicle parking brake, chock all wheels, and keep the engine running. 16. Do not use the winch to hold the vehicle in place dur- ing transportation.
The snow plow assembly attaches to the front mainframe as- sembly of the Argo. The plow blade is an 81” (2 m) steel blade 11.9.1 Operating Precautions suitable for straight or angled use. The power winch option is required to raise and lower the snow plow blade.
DO NOT use the ROPS as an attachment point for towing water. or winching the Argo. Check fastener tightness annually. Inspect for and • replace any damaged or worn parts of the ROPS and Remove water and debris from the trailer frequently.
APPENDIX 1 SPECIAL TOOLS 7R VICE GRIP MODIFICATION (Part No. 658-08) 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.
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ARGO and CENTAUR New Vehicle Limited Warranty The warranty period is limited to 12 months for ARGO models and 12 months or 750 hours for CENTAUR models from the date of the original retail sale, with the following exceptions: Briggs & Stratton Engine – 24 months from the date of retail sale separately by the engine manufacturer’s service network.
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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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