Tires And Wheels - Arctic Cat 650 2011 Operator's Manual

Prevention

1. Tires and Wheels

Correct tire pressure is crucial. Consult
the ATV Specifications section of this
Operator's Manual for tire pressure
guidelines. Incorrect tire pressure can
cause poor handling, instability, and a
loss of ATV control.
Check:
1. Tire pressure
2. Tire surface (tread and sidewalls)
While checking the tire pressure, inspect
the tread and sidewalls of the tires for
cracks, cuts, or other damage that could
indicate they need to be replaced.
2. Controls and Cables
With the engine running and brake
applied, check all transmission posi-
tions: forward, neutral, and reverse.
Check:
1. Forward
2. Neutral
3. Reverse
A. Brakes
Squeeze the hand brake lever. If it feels soft
or "squishy," it could be low on fluid or
have a leak — refer to the General Mainte-
nance section of this Operator's Manual for
instructions. Don't use the ATV until the
brakes are operating normally.
Test the brake lever lock and see if it locks
the hand brake lever into position; then
disengage it to release the brake. Be sure
that the auxiliary brake near the footrest is
working; your brakes could fail during a
ride if they're not maintained.
Check:
1. Hand brake lever
2. Auxiliary brake pedal
3. Brake lever lock
B. Throttle
The throttle should have a free, smooth
range of motion. If it seems to "stick" at
any point, refer to the General Mainte-
nance section of this Operator's Manual
for instructions. Driving your ATV with a
sticking throttle can turn your leisurely
ride into an unwelcome accident. Don't
drive your ATV if the throttle sticks.
24
! WARNING
Check:
1. Free, smooth range of motion
3. Lights and Electric
Turn the hi-beam and lo-beam on and off
to make sure they work. At the same
time, check that the taillight and brake-
light work. Also, check the status/warn-
ing indicators (reverse, neutral, and hi-lo
beam) on the handlebar when you start
the ATV. Don't drive the ATV unless all
systems are working. Check the ignition
switch and engine stop switch.
Check:
1. Hi-beam
2. Lo-beam
3. Taillight/brakelight
4. Status/warning indicators
5. Ignition switch
6. Stop switch
4. Oil and Fuel
Start with a full tank of gas before every
ride, and while you're at it, top off the oil.
Don't forget to check for fluid leaks around
the ATV. Watch the overheat indicator to
ensure the engine coolant level is adequate.
Check:
1. Gas
2. Oil
3. Fluid leaks
5. Chassis
Grass and leaves can gum-up your suspen-
sion and shocks. Clear and clean the sus-
pension arms, shock springs, and fenders.
Check smoothness by turning the handle-
bar full-left and full-right. Check that there
is no binding, restrictions, free-play, or
looseness in steering components.
Check:
1. Suspension arms
2. Shock springs
3. Fenders
4. Steering
Indicates a potential hazard that could
result in a serious injury or death.