Entering Water; Driving Procedures In Water; Driving Out Of Water; Winter Operation - Argo 8x8 Titan Operator's Manual

DRIVING PROCEDURES IN UNUSUAL CONDITIONS
2. Visually check the lower body of the vehicle for cuts,
punctures or holes that will allow water to enter the vehicle.
3. Make sure that any cargo in the rear of the vehicle is evenly
distributed.
4. Periodically inspect the fit of the axle housings to the lower
body to ensure they are water tight. If there are signs of
water leaking into the lower body, take corrective action
before crossing shallow water again.
Always observe the recognized rules of boating while
traveling in water.
5.6.1 Entering the Water
The point of entry should be free of rocks, stumps and other
obstacles. Enter the water from a firm, gradual slope whenever
possible. With the wheels partially submerged but still in
contact with the bottom, stop and check thoroughly for water
entering the lower body.
If a leak is detected, drive back onto shore. Drain the vehicle
and repair the leak before re-entering the water.
If the body of water must be entered from a steep slope or
uneven terrain, back the vehicle into the water. With the en-
gine and transmission weight concentrated in the front of the
vehicle, the rear is lighter and floats higher.
Be careful not to submerge the bumper as you enter the water.
With the bumper submerged, water can enter through the
openings in the upper body. If long water operation / use is
expected, Argo recommends installing the dual bilge pumps
to evacuate any water that may collect in the lower body.

5.6.2 Driving Procedures in Water

After the vehicle is floating evenly on the water, turn the
throttle twist grip to increase speed. (Note: If the vehicle is
equipped with a ROPS, unlatch all seatbelts.) Use only part
throttle when traveling through water. Full throttle only results
in excessive turbulence, not higher speeds.
The vehicle is steered by a combination of pulling on the right
bar and pushing on the left to steer right or vise-versa to travel
left. The turning radius is somewhat greater in water, and the
vehicle does not respond to changes in direction as quickly
as it does on land. Turning in water may be more effective
in Low gear.
The vehicle is propelled forward through the water by the
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web of the tires as they rotate. To back up in water, release the
throttle, shift the transmission into neutral, and use a paddle.
Avoid rocks, stumps or other obstacles that are below the
surface of the water. Striking these obstacles may damage
the bottom or upset the vehicle.
If your vehicle begins to fill with water, immediately head to
the nearest shore. Get the vehicle out of the water and drain
it by removing both rear drain plugs. Correct the leak before
entering the water again.
Do not leave the vehicle in water for extended periods of
time. Water could enter the axle seals or lower body and
cause damage to the axle bearings, chains or sprockets.

5.6.3 Driving Out of Water

When driving out of water, choose an area of the shore that is
reasonably flat and free of rocks, stumps and other obstacles.
Steer the vehicle so that both front wheels reach the shore
at the same time. Accelerate slowly until the vehicle is out
of the water. If vehicle is equipped with a ROPS system, re-
fasten seatbelts.

5.7 WINTER OPERATION

Follow these precautions when operating the ARGO in winter
conditions:
• Equip the vehicle for remote area use, as listed in Section
5.1.
• Keep the battery fully charged and in good condition.
• Use the recommended winter grade of engine oil.
• Do not allow water or snow to accumulate in the vehicle.
Snow may melt during operation of the vehicle, collect
in the lower body and freeze around the chains and final
drive components, immobilizing the vehicle.
• Store the vehicle indoors or under cover.
• Equip your vehicle with snow tracks for travel over deep
snow.
• Steep, snow-covered or icy hills may be more difficult
to ascend. Ice cleat kits (Argo Part No. 825-21) are
available for Rubber Track systems.
• Never travel alone into a remote area. Leave your route
and arrival plans with someone who can send help if you
fail to arrive as planned.
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