Shock Absorbers; General Lubrication - Arctic Cat XR 500 Operator's Manual


NOTE: It is necessary to remove
four machine screws securing the
protective screen to the front of the
radiator and move it forward to prop-
erly flush the radiator core. Make
sure to secure the screen to the radi-
ator after cleaning.
CAUTION
Failure to remove dirt and debris
from the radiator prior to operating
the ATV may cause overheating
resulting in severe engine damage.
CAUTION
Arctic Cat does not recommend
using a pressure washer to clean the
radiator core. The pressure may bend
or flatten the fins causing restricted
air flow, and electrical components
on the radiator could be damaged.
Use only a garden hose with spray
nozzle at normal tap pressure.

Shock Absorbers

Each shock absorber should be visibly
checked weekly for excessive fluid leak-
age (some seal leakage may be observed
but it does not indicate the shock is in
need of replacement), cracks or breaks in
the lower case, or a bent shock rod. If any
one of these conditions is detected,
replacement is necessary.

NOTE: When the ATV is operated
in extremely cold weather (-23°C/-
10°F or colder), a small amount of
leakage may be present. Unless the
leakage is excessive, replacement is
not necessary.
The shock absorber has a spring force
adjustment sleeve with five adjustment
positions to allow the spring to be adjusted
for different riding and loading conditions.
If the spring action is too soft or too stiff,
adjust it according to the chart.
60

NOTE: Before attempting to adjust
suspension, clean dirt and debris
from the sleeve and remove load
from the suspension; then use the
spanner wrench to adjust the sleeve
to the desired position.
Spring
Position
Force
1
2
3
4
5
Stronger

General Lubrication

Cables
None of the cables require lubrication;
however, it is advisable to lubricate the
ends of the cables periodically with a
good cable lubricant.
Engine/Transmission Oil
and Filter

NOTE: Refer to the recommended
oil viscosity chart (on page 56) in
this manual for the proper engine oil.
Change the engine oil and oil filter at the
scheduled intervals. The engine should
always be warm when the oil is changed
so the oil will drain easily and completely.
1. Park the ATV on level ground.
2. Loosen the oil level stick. Be careful
not to allow contaminates to enter the
opening.
XR063
Setting Load
Soft Light
Stiff Heavy