Threadlock; Grease; Applying Rtv Sealant; Rtv Gasket Sealant - Arctic Cat Cougar Service Manual

GENERAL INFORMATION
to simulate cold-weather operation. Engine oils
fall into the 5 to 50 range.
Multigrade oils (for example 5W-20) have
been changed by additives that modify the oil to
be less viscous (thinner) at low temperatures and
more viscous (thicker) at high temperatures. This
allows the oil to perform efficiently across a wide
range of engine operating conditions. The lower
the number, the easier the engine will start in cold
climates. Higher numbers are usually recom-
mended for engines running in hot weather con-
ditions.
Grease
Greases are graded by the National Lubricat-
ing Grease Institute (NLGI). Greases are graded
by number according to the consistency of the
grease; these range from No. 000 to No. 6, with
No. 6 being the most solid. A typical multipur-
pose grease is NLGI No. 2. For specific applica-
tions, equipment manufacturers may require
grease with an additive such as molybdenum
disulfide (MoS2).
NOTE
A low temperature grease should be used
wherever grease is required on the snow-
mobile. Chapter Three lists low tem-
perature grease recommended by ·
Arctco.
13
RTV GASKET SEALANT
Room temperature vulcanizing (RTV) sealant
is used on some preformed gaskets and to seal
some components. RTV is a silicone gel supplied
in tubes and can be purchased in a number of
different colors. For most snowmobile use, the
clear color is preferable.
Moisture in the air causes RTV to cure. Al-
ways place the cap on the tube as soon as possible
when using RTV. RTV has a shelflife of one year
and will not cure properly when the shelf life has
expired. Check the expiration date on RTV tubes
before using and keep partially used tubes tightly
sealed.
Applying RTV Sealant
Clean all gasket residue from mating surfaces.
Surfaces should be clean and free of oil and dirt.
Remove all RTV gasket material from blind at-
taching holes, as it can affect bolt torque.
Apply RTV sealant in a continuous bead 2-3
mm (0.08-0.12 in.) thick. Circle all mounting
holes unless otherwise specified. Torque mating
parts within ten minutes after application.
THREAD LOCK
Because of the snowmobile's operating con-
ditions, a threadlock (Figure 25) is required to
help secure many of the fasteners. A
threadl~ck
will lock fasteners against vibration loosenmg
and seal against leaks. Loctite 242, which is blue,
and 271, which is red, are recommended for
many threadlock requirements described in this
manual.
Loctite 242 (blue) is a medium strength
threadlock for general purpose use. Component
disassembly can be performed with normal hand
tools. Loctite 271 (red) is a high-strength thread-
lock that is normally used on studs or critical
fasteners. Heat or special tools, such as a press