Arctic Cat 2012 XC 4501 Operator's Manual

Arctic Cat 2012 XC 4501 Operator's Manual

Arctic cat 2012 xc 4501 atv
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Operator's Manual
Do not remove this Operator's Manual from this ATV
according to the guidelines and agreement with the
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Read this manual carefully.
It contains important safety information.
SHA RE OU R PASSION.
TM
2012
ATV
ATV
XC 450 i
XC 450 i

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Summary of Contents for Arctic Cat 2012 XC 4501

  • Page 1 2012 Operator’s Manual XC 450 i XC 450 i Do not remove this Operator’s Manual from this ATV according to the guidelines and agreement with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Read this manual carefully. It contains important safety information. SHA RE OU R PASSION.
  • Page 2 ATV and must remain with the ATV at the time of resale. If CAUTION A CAUTION indicates special precautions the ATV changes ownership more than once, contact Arctic Cat Inc., that must be taken to avoid damage to the Service Department, P.O. Box 810, Thief River Falls, MN 56701, for ATV.
  • Page 3: Foreword

    Carefully read the following pages. If you have any questions regard- parts, oil, and accessories are engineered to meet the standards and ing this ATV, contact an authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer for assis- requirements of your Arctic Cat ATV. For a complete list of acces- tance.
  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Basic Operating Maneuvers..............28 Arctic Cat ATV Emission Control Warranty Statement....65 How to Handle the ATV (Active Riding Techniques)........ 30 Arctic Cat Emission Control System Limited Warranty ....66 Tips......................34 U.S. EPA Emission Control Statement/Warranty Coverage - ATV General Information..............
  • Page 5: Division I - Safety

    Do not turn at excessive speed. chance of skidding or sliding out of control. • Always have the ATV checked by an authorized Arctic Cat ATV • Never operate an ATV in fast flowing water or in water deeper than dealer if it has been involved in an accident.
  • Page 6: Atv Safety Alert

    ATV Safety Alert • A child under 16 years old should never operate an ATV without adult supervision. Children need to be observed carefully because The Consumer Product Safety Commission has concluded that ALL- not all children have the strength, size, skills, or judgment to oper- TERRAIN VEHICLES (ATV’s) may present a risk of SERIOUS ate an ATV safely.
  • Page 7: Rider Training Course

    Rider Training Course Arctic Cat sponsors a free Rider Training Course to teach ATV riding skills or to reinforce current riding skills. First-time purchasers with- out any previous ATV riding experience will receive a $100.00 cou- pon from Arctic Cat through the SVIA/ASI after completing the training course (U.S.
  • Page 8: Hangtags

    KC360 2258-714 2258-432 Pour commander des Etiquettes de Mise en Garde gratuites, voyez votre détaillant de autorisé VTT Arctic Cat pour le numéro de pièce 1436-344. ! WARNING Indicates a potential hazard that could result in a serious injury or death.
  • Page 9: Warning Labels & Information

    Anyone who rides the ATV should read and understand this information before riding. The labels should be considered as permanent parts of the ATV. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Arctic Cat ATV dealer for a replacement. ...
  • Page 10: Warnings

    Operator’s Manual. sengers. For more information about the training course, contact an autho- ! WARNING rized Arctic Cat ATV dealer or call 1-800-887-2887 (U.S.) or 1-613- 739-1535 (Canada). POTENTIAL HAZARD ! WARNING Operating this ATV on paved surfaces.
  • Page 11 Warnings ! WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD ! WARNING Operating this ATV without wearing an POTENTIAL HAZARD approved helmet, eye protection, and Operating this ATV on public streets, protective clothing. roads, or highways. WHAT CAN HAPPEN WHAT CAN HAPPEN Operating without an approved helmet You can collide with another vehicle.
  • Page 12 Warnings ! WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD ! WARNING Failure to inspect the ATV before operating. POTENTIAL HAZARD Failure to properly maintain the ATV. Operating this ATV after or while consuming alcohol or drugs. WHAT CAN HAPPEN WHAT CAN HAPPEN Increases the possibility of an accident or equipment damage. Could seriously affect your judgment.
  • Page 13 All parts and accessories added to this ATV should Could cause loss of traction or ATV be genuine Arctic Cat ATV components designed for use on the ATV control, which could result in an acci- and should be installed and used according to instructions. Never dent including a rollover.
  • Page 14 Warnings ! WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD ! WARNING Improperly crossing hills or turning on POTENTIAL HAZARD hills. Operating on steep hills. WHAT CAN HAPPEN WHAT CAN HAPPEN Could cause loss of control or cause the The ATV can overturn more easily on ATV to overturn.
  • Page 15 Warnings ! WARNING ! WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD POTENTIAL HAZARD Stalling, rolling backwards, or improp- Climbing hills improperly. erly dismounting while climbing a hill. WHAT CAN HAPPEN WHAT CAN HAPPEN Could cause loss of control or cause the ATV to overturn. Could result in the ATV overturning.
  • Page 16: Warnings

    Warnings ! WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD ! WARNING Operating the ATV through deep or fast flowing water. POTENTIAL HAZARD WHAT CAN HAPPEN Improperly operating over obstacles. Tires may float, causing loss of traction and loss of control, which WHAT CAN HAPPEN could lead to an accident.
  • Page 17: Prevention

    Prevention Gloves Your hands are targets for flying objects and branches. Along with Overview providing skin protection, gloves will shield your hands from harsh When using an ATV, prevention is the name of the game. “Had you weather. Wear gloves that are weather resistant and have a gripping only known”...
  • Page 18: Condition Of The Atv

    Prevention 5. Chassis 6. Miscellaneous Items These helmets should provide full-face pro- tection. One easy way to remember what parts you need to check is by using If you drop or damage your helmet, get a new the acronym “T-CLOC.” It stands for: one immediately.
  • Page 19: First Aid And Survival

    Prevention 5. CHASSIS Grass and leaves can gum-up your Test the brake lever lock and see if it locks the hand brake lever into Check: suspension and shocks. Clear and position; then disengage it to release the brake. Be sure the brake 1.
  • Page 20: Prevention

    Prevention Cellular Phone It may be necessary to make an urgent phone call. Tools Maps/GPS (Global Positioning System) Routine maintenance will gen- Carry these items on your ATV: erally eliminate the need for Maps may be unnecessary when you’re familiar with the area. But 1.
  • Page 21: Active Riding

    Active Riding Overview “Active Riding” is the second part of “P.A.S.S.” It involves an understanding of how your body weight, balance, gravity, and physical forces affect the handling of the ATV. For example, when you drive a car quickly into a sharp turn, your body is pulled to the outside of the vehicle by centrifugal force.
  • Page 22: Sound Judgment

    Sound Judgment 7. Do you thrive on the adrenaline rush you get from speeding and dangerous situations? Overview Never Sometimes Often You are not invincible. Knowing that the first “S” in “P.A.S.S.” stands for “Sound Judgment” means you need to use yours. 8.
  • Page 23: Those Around You

    Sound Judgment Outsloped trails (trails that slant to allow rain to run off) make trail riding a bit more challenging. Accepting that challenge means keep- Weather ing your weight shifted into the slope. Denying the challenge means sliding off the trail. You need to consider the weather.
  • Page 24: Equipment

    ATV is detected, DO NOT OPERATE THE ATV. of cars if you’re crossing roads or riding in public areas and make Take the ATV to an authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer for inspection yourself be seen. If you can’t see other vehicles coming, that means and adjustment or repair.
  • Page 25: Load Capacity Ratings Chart

    Sound Judgment ! WARNING Load Capacity Ratings Chart POTENTIAL HAZARD Arctic Cat ATV Load Capacity Ratings Overloading the ATV or carrying or towing cargo improperly. Item Specifications WHAT CAN HAPPEN (lb) (kg) Could cause changes in ATV handling, which could lead to an acci- dent.
  • Page 26 Sound Judgment Reckless Riding If you are involved in an ATV accident when you’re speeding, you Be aware of prescription and over-the-counter medications. Drowsi- have a 25% chance of landing yourself in the hospital. The faster you ness and impaired judgment can be caused by a wide variety of medi- go, the more likely you are to destroy your head and internal organs, cations.
  • Page 27: Supervision

    16 operate your ATV. time to use your knowledge and supervise others who ride your ATV. Inexperienced/ Arctic Cat and the ATV Safety Institute recommend that all ATV TESTIMONIAL Untrained operators ride the appropriate-sized ATV according to age.
  • Page 28: Division Ii - Operation/Maintenance

    442.45 cc (27 cu in.) Gasoline (Recommended) 87 Octane Regular Unleaded Spark Plug Type NGK CR7E Engine Oil (Recommended) Arctic Cat ACX All Weather (Synthetic) Spark Plug Gap 0.5-0.6 mm (0.020-0.024 in.) Differential/Rear Drive Lubricant SAE Approved 80W-90 Hypoid Brake Type Dual lever, independent front &...
  • Page 29: Location Of Parts And Controls

    Location of Parts and Controls 1. Battery 2. Headlights 3. Rear Brake Lever 4. Power Distribution Module 5. Electrical Access Panel 6. Seat Latch 7. Storage Compartment 8. Reverse Override Switch 9. Rear Brake Pedal KC405A 10. Brake Lever Lock 11.
  • Page 30: Atv Operation

    ATV Operation 6. Press the starter button. Basic Operating Maneuvers CAUTION Active riding and basic maneuvers are the foundation of your ATV Do not run the starter motor for more than eight seconds per ride. Without basic skills, it’s impossible to move to this level— starting attempt.
  • Page 31 Shifting ! WARNING The Arctic Cat ATV with an automatic transmission has a dual-range Do not start the engine or operate this ATV with the clutch transmission with reverse. To shift the ATV, follow these steps:...
  • Page 32: How To Handle The Atv (Active Riding Techniques)

    ATV Operation • Sharp Turns • Quick Turns Parking • K-Turns • Riding Uphill Parking involves following the previous rules for braking; then: • Riding Downhill • Sidehilling/Traversing 1. After the ATV stops, shift into neutral. • Swerving • Crossing Obstacles 2.
  • Page 33: Wide Turns

    ATV Operation 4. If shifting your weight and balance aren’t enough to keep the ATV tires on the ground, straighten out the handlebar as much as Wide Turns you can. About 20% of ATV accidents happen during turns. If you don’t under- 5.
  • Page 34: Riding Uphill

    ATV Operation Riding Uphill Roughly 20% of accidents happen while riding on hills and as a result K-Turns of the ATV rolling or flipping. So, obviously, use extreme caution and Use K-turns if you accidentally stall while riding uphill; you need to follow this method for riding uphill.
  • Page 35: Riding Downhill

    ATV Operation 4. If the ATV feels like it’s tipping, turn the handlebar downhill. If that’s not possible because of the terrain or other conditions or if it just Riding Downhill doesn’t work, stop and get off. Dismount the ATV on the uphill side. Success in riding downhill depends on how well you know your Swerving brakes—take it easy on them, or you could flip over.
  • Page 36: Tips

    ATV Operation Tips Crossing Obstacles Driving an ATV and a car have some similarities; however, there are Crossing obstacles is risky; avoid it if possible. Riding over logs, a few situations that require special attention: rocks, and ruts means combining all the active riding skills into one big motion.
  • Page 37: Crossing Roads

    ATV Operation  NOTE: Engine damage caused by water ingestion or immer- sion will not be covered by Arctic Cat warranty. 3. Lean to inside of turn. 1. Physically check the depth and current of the water, especially if 4. Turn handlebar.
  • Page 38: Atv Operation

    ATV Operation  NOTE: After the brakes thaw, dry them by applying them several times while riding slowly. Driving In Cold Weather  NOTE: After riding through water, mud, snow, or slush, it  NOTE: Check that all control levers move freely. Make is important to dry both brake systems before parking the sure that the footrest, shift lever, and brake pedal are free of ATV.
  • Page 39: General Information

    OFF position when engine is not running. Vehicle Identification Number, and Engine Serial Number when con- Shift Lever tacting an authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer for parts, service, acces- sories, or warranty. If a complete engine must be replaced, ask the This ATV has a dual-range dealer to notify Arctic Cat for correct registration information.
  • Page 40: Drive Select Switch

    ATV is moving.  NOTE: The brake lever lock must lock the front wheels. If Hand Brake Levers/ it doesn’t, take the ATV to an authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer for service. Brake Lever Lock The left hand brake is used to...
  • Page 41: Headlight Hi/Lo Switch

    Headlight HI/LO Switch Reverse Override Switch headlight HI/LO This ATV is equipped with a reverse speed limiter system. When switch to select the running additional RPM is needed in reverse, depress and hold the override lights/taillight and high or low switch.
  • Page 42: Speedometer/Lcd (Digital)

     B. Press and hold the Set/Reset Button (4) until the minutes stop NOTE: The ATV is equipped with an RPM limiter that scrolling and the hour display starts to scroll. Momentarily retards ignition timing when maximum RPM is approached. release when the correct hour is displayed;...
  • Page 43 CAUTION 8. Gear Position Indicator - Indicates which gear position is selected. Arctic Cat does not recommend using a pressure washer to • R (reverse)/N (neutral)/L (low range)/H (high range) clean the radiator core. The pressure may bend or flatten the ...
  • Page 44: Gas Hoses

     2. Install the oil level stick and NOTE: Take the ATV to an authorized Arctic Cat ATV thread it into the engine case. dealer to have the EFI error corrected and to have the ECU reset as soon as possible.
  • Page 45: Trailering And Towing

    Transporting ATV ! WARNING When transporting the ATV, Arctic Cat recommends that the ATV be Make sure that the load in the trailer is properly secured and in its normal operating position (on all four wheels) and the following will not shift while moving.
  • Page 46: Gasoline-Oil-Lubricant

    Any lubricant used in place of the recommended lubricant CAUTION could cause serious front differential/rear drive damage. Filling Gas Tank Do not use white gas. Only Arctic Cat approved gasoline additives should be used. ! WARNING Recommended Engine/Transmission Oil Always fill the gas tank in a well-ventilated area. Never add gaso-...
  • Page 47: Break-In Procedure

    CAUTION fasteners. At the discretion and expense of the owner/operator, the ATV may be taken to an authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer for this TO PROPERLY BURNISH THE BRAKES, USE FOLLOWING initial service.
  • Page 48: General Maintenance

    ATV is detected, DO NOT OPERATE THE Tires/air pressure 55/26 Inspect every time before riding ATV. Take the ATV to an authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer for inspec- tion and adjustment or repair. * Brake components 49/50 Inspect every time before...
  • Page 49: Liquid Cooling System

    If leakage or damage is detected, take the ATV to an authorized lower case, or a bent shock rod. If any one of these conditions is Arctic Cat ATV dealer for service. Also, the coolant level should be detected, replacement is necessary.
  • Page 50: General Lubrication

     3. Remove the drain plug from NOTE: Before attempting to adjust suspension, clean dirt the bottom of the engine and and debris from the sleeve and remove load from the sus- drain the oil into a drain pan. pension; then use the spanner wrench to adjust the sleeve to the desired position.
  • Page 51: Hydraulic Brakes

    DOT 4 brake fluid. metal filings or water. If found, take the ATV to an authorized  NOTE: If the sight glass Arctic Cat ATV dealer for ser- windows appear dark, there is vicing. a sufficient amount of fluid in KC387A the reservoir.
  • Page 52: Protective Rubber Boots

    Carefully inspect the hydraulic brake hoses for cracks or other dam- wheels. age. If found, take the ATV to an authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer to have the brake hoses replaced. 2. Remove both front wheels.
  • Page 53: Battery

    Arctic Cat ATV dealer for service.  NOTE: Arctic Cat recommends the use of the CTEK Multi CC793 US 800 or the CTEK Multi US 3300 for battery maintenance charging. Maintenance charging is required on all batteries not used for more than two weeks or as required by battery drain.
  • Page 54  NOTE: Arctic Cat recommends the use of the CTEK Multi service it, and correctly charge it; however, in an emer- US 800 or the CTEK Multi US 3300 for battery maintenance gency, it may be necessary to jump-start a vehicle.
  • Page 55 1. On the vehicle to be jump-started, remove the battery cover and 5. Disconnect all external accessories such as cell phones, GPS any terminal boots. units, and radios on both vehicles. ! WARNING CAUTION Any time service is performed on a battery, the following Failure to disconnect electronic accessories during jump- must be observed: keep sparks, open flame, cigarettes, or starting may cause system damage due to power spikes.
  • Page 56: Spark Plug

    The air filter inside the air filter housing must be kept clean to pro- an authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer if the plug insulator is not a light vide good engine power and gas mileage. If the ATV is used under brown color.
  • Page 57: Air Filter Housing Drain

    6. Put the element in a plastic bag; then pour in air filter oil and 1. Place the ATV on a level surface. work the oil into the element. 2. Remove the drain bolt from the cover and allow the water to 7.
  • Page 58: Wheels

    At the intervals shown in the Maintenance Schedule, clean the spark formed by an authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer or a qualified tire arrester using the following procedure. repair station.
  • Page 59: Checking/Adjusting Headlight Aim

     1. Position the ATV on a level NOTE: The bulb portion of the headlight is fragile. HAN- floor so the headlights are DLE WITH CARE. When replacing the headlight bulb, do not approximately 6.1 m (20 ft) touch the glass portion of the bulb. If the glass is touched, it from an aiming surface (wall or must be cleaned with a dry cloth before installing.
  • Page 60: Electrical Output Terminals

    ATV at all times. The tool kit is located under the seat. 2411-566 CAUTION Always replace a blown fuse with a fuse of the same type and rating. If the new fuse blows after a short period of use, con- sult an authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer immediately.
  • Page 61: Preparation For Storage

    Remove the air filter housing cover and air filter. Start plastic cover as moisture will collect on the ATV causing rust- the engine and allow it to idle; then using Arctic Cat Engine Pre- ing. server, rapidly inject the preserver into the air filter opening for a period of 10 to 20 seconds.
  • Page 62: Preparation After Storage

    CAUTION Taking the ATV out of storage and correctly preparing it will assure many miles and hours of trouble-free riding. Arctic Cat recommends Before installing the battery, make sure the ignition switch is the following procedure to prepare the ATV.
  • Page 63: Limited Warranty

    7. Use of the ATV in any way for racing purposes. The warranty periods are as follows: 1. Six months from the date of sale — for an Arctic Cat ATV used for rec- 8. Removal of the engine for use in another vehicle.
  • Page 64: Warranty Procedure/Owner Responsibility

    The authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer will examine the ATV or part to determine if, in his opinion, a warrantable condition exists. If a warrantable condi- tion appears to exist, the dealer will repair or replace, at Arctic Cat’s option, free of charge, 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.
  • Page 67: Arctic Cat Atv Emission Control Warranty Statement

    Arctic Cat Inc. (hereinafter referred to as Arctic Cat) and the California Air Resources Board are pleased to explain the emission control system war- ranty for each new Arctic Cat ATV sold in the state of California. In California, a new ATV must be designed, built, and equipped to meet the state’s stringent anti-smog standards.
  • Page 68: Arctic Cat Emission Control System Limited Warranty

    Arctic Cat Emission Control System Limited Warranty Arctic Cat Inc., P.O. Box 810, Thief River Falls, MN 56701 (hereinafter referred to as (5) use of replacement components or accessories not conforming to Arctic Arctic Cat) warrants that this new Arctic Cat ATV manufactured on or after January...
  • Page 69: Epa Emission Control Statement/Warranty Coverage - Atv (U.s. Only)

    Wiring OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITIES The owner of any ATV warranted under this Arctic Cat Emission Control Statement is responsible for the proper maintenance and use of the ATV as stated in the Operator's Manual. Proper maintenance generally includes replacement and service, at the owner's choosing, such items as air filter, oil and oil filter, or any other part, item, or device related to emissions control as specified in the Operator's Manual.
  • Page 70: Index

    Index Gasoline (Recommended)......... 44 Sharp Turns ............... 31 Gas Tank (Filling)............44 Shifting ............... 29 General Information ........... 37 Shift Lever ..............37 Accessories ..............1 Handling the ATV ............30 Shock Absorbers............47 Active Riding.............. 19 Hangtags ..............6 Sidehilling/Traversing ..........
  • Page 71: Maintenance Record

    Maintenance Record DATE MILEAGE SERVICE PERFORMED/NOTES...
  • Page 72 Maintenance Record DATE MILEAGE SERVICE PERFORMED/NOTES...
  • Page 73 NOTES...
  • Page 74: Declaration Of Conformity

    EMC Directive 2004/108/EC Date of Issue: December, 2004 EC Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC Date of Issue: May, 2006 Issued by European Commission. Type of Equipment: All-Terrain Vehicles Brand Name: Arctic Cat Model: 450 XC 4x4 Standards which conformity IEC 801-2:1991 declared:...
  • Page 75: Identification Numbers Record

    3. ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER: Record the Vehicle Identification Number and Engine Serial Number in the spaces provided to assist you in ordering parts from your autho- rized Arctic Cat ATV dealer or for reference in case the ATV is stolen.
  • Page 76 • avoid paved surfaces - pavement may seriously affect handling and control LOCATE AND READ OPERATOR’S MANUAL ©2011 Arctic Cat Inc. ™® Trademarks of Arctic Cat Inc., Thief River Falls, MN 56701 FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS (218) 681-9851 - U.S.

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