Arctic Cat 2008 400 4x4 User manual

Your ATV can be hazardous to operate.
A collision or rollover can occur quickly, even during routine
maneuvers such as turning and driving on hills or over obstacles, if
you fail to take proper precautions.
For your safety, understand and follow all the warnings contained in
this Operator’s Manual and the labels on your ATV.
Keep this Operator’s Manual with your ATV at all times.
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE WARNINGS CONTAINED IN THIS
MANUAL CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
Particularly important information is distinguished in this manual by
the following notations:
 $77(17,21
 &$87,21
127(
!The Safety Alert Symbol means
ATTENTION! BE ALERT! YOUR SAFETY
IS INVOLVED.
Failure to follow WARNING instructions
could result in severe injury or death to
the ATV operator, a bystander, or a per-
son inspecting or repairing the ATV.
A CAUTION indicates special precauti-
ons that must be taken to avoid damage
to the ATV.
A NOTE provides key information to
make procedures easier or more clear.

Introduction
Foreword
Congratulations and thank you from Arctic Cat GmbH for purchasing an
ARCTIC CAT® All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV). Built with Arctic Cat engineering and
manufacturing know-how, it is designed to provide superior ride, comfort, and
utility.
This Operator’s Manual is furnished to ensure that the operator is aware of
safe operating procedures. It also includes information about the general care
and maintenance of your ATV.
Carefully read the following pages. If you have any questions regarding this
ATV, contact an authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer for assistance. Remember,
only authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealers have the knowledge and facilities to
provide you with the best service possible.
lKnow all local, state/provincial riding laws,
lRespect vour ATV
lRespect the environment, and
lYou will gain the respect of others.
We also advise you to strictly follow the recommended maintenance program
as outlined. This preventive maintenance program is designed to ensure that
all critical components on this ATV are thoroughly inspected at various inter-
vals.
All information in this manual is based on the latest product data and speci-
fications available at the time of printing. Arctic Cat Inc. reserves the right to
make product changes and improvements which may affect illustrations or
explanations without notice.
Protect Your Sport
1

Table of contents
DIVISION 1 - SAFE
INTRODUCTION...................................................................................1
RIDER TRAINING COURSE.......................................................................6
HANGTAGS & WARNING INFORMATION...............................................7
WARNING LABELS.....................................................................................8
LOCATION OF PARTS AND CONTROLS.................................................9
WARNINGS ..........................................................................................10-23
PREVENTION....................................................................................... 24-30
Safe riding cloth and gear ......................................................................24
Condition of the ATV...............................................................................26
First aid ...................................................................................................29
ACTIVE RIDING ................................................................................ 31-48
Basic operating maneuvers....................................................................31
How to handle the ATV (Active riding techniques)..................................37
Tips .............................................................................................................45
SOUND JUDGMENT.........................................................................49-55
Environment.................................................................................49
Those around you...................................................................................51
Equipment ...............................................................................................52
Maximum load capacity chart.................................................................53
SUPERVISION..............................................................................49-55
Taking Responsibility.................................................................................50
DIVISION II – OPERATION/MAINTENANCE
PREFACE ........................................................................................ 57
PARTS AND ACCESSORIES..........................................................57
SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................58-59
GENERAL INFORMATION .......................................................... 60-69
ATV Identification Numbers............................................................... 60
Ignition Switch Key ........................................................................60
Control Locations and Functions ...........................................................61
Gas/Vent Hoses ....................................................................................66
Carburetor Float Bowl Drain ............................................................66
Oil Level .......................................................................................67
Seat Latch ......................................................................................67
Transporting ATV ..........................................................................68
Gasoline-Oil-Lubricant .....................................................................68
Break-In Procedure ......................................................................70
2

Table of Contents (cont)
GENERAL MAINTENANCE .........................................................72-87
Cooling System .............................................................................73
Shock Absorbers .........................................................................73
General Lubrication ........................................................................74
Hydraulic Brakes ...........................................................................76
Protective Rubber Boots ................................................................78
Battery ..........................................................................................78
Spark Plug ....................................................................................80
Engine Idle RPM Adjustment ..........................................................81
Throttle Cable Adjustment .............................................................81
Air Filter (Engine) ............................................................................81
Air Filter Housing Drain Tube ..........................................................82
Tires .....................................................................................................83
Wheel Removal .............................................................................84
Light Bulb Replacement ..................................................................84
Fuses ..........................................................................................86
Tools ............................................................................................87
PREPARATION FOR STORAGE .......................................................88
PREPARATION AFTER STORAGE ....................................................89
WARRANTY .....................................................................................90
WARRANTY PROCEDURE/OWNER RESPONSIBILITY.....................93
3

AN ATV IS NOT A TOY AND CAN BE HAZARDOUS
TO OPERATE.
• Always go slowly and be extra careful when operating on unfamiliar ter-
rain. Always be alert to changing terrain conditions when operating the
ATV. Never operate on excessively rough, slippery, or loose terrain.
• Always follow proper procedures for turning as described in this manual.
Practice turning at slow speeds before attempting to turn at faster speeds.
Do not turn at excessive speed.
• Always have the ATV checked by an authorized Arctic Cat ATV dealer if it
has been involved in an accident.
• Never operate the ATV on hills too steep for the ATV or for your abilities.
Practice on smaller hills before attempting larger hills.
• Always follow proper procedures for climbing hills as described in this
manual. Check the terrain carefully before you start up any hill. Never
climb hills with slippery or loose surfaces. Shift your weight forward.
Never open the throttle suddenly or make sudden gear changes. Never
go over the top of any hill at high speed.
• Always follow proper procedures for going down hills and for braking on
hills as described in this manual. Check the terrain carefully before you
start down any hill. Shift your weight backward. Never go down a hill at
high speed. Avoid going down a hill at an angle which would cause the
ATV to lean sharply to one side. Go straight down the hill where pos-
sible.
• Always follow proper procedures for crossing the side of a hill as de-
scribed in this manual. Avoid hills with slippery or loose surfaces. Shift
your weight to the uphill side of the ATV. Never attempt to turn the ATV
around on any hill until you have mastered the turning techniques de-
scribed in this manual on level ground. Avoid crossing the side of a steep
hill if possible.
4

5
AN ATV IS NOT A TOY AND CAN BE HAZARDOUS
TO OPERATE.
• Always use proper procedures if you stall or roll backward when climb-
ing a hill. To avoid stalling, maintain a steady speed when climbing a hill.
If you stall or roll backwards, follow the special procedure for braking
described in this manual. Dismount on the uphill side or to either side
if pointed straight uphill. Turn the ATV around and mount following the
procedure described in this manual.
• Always check for obstacles before operating in a new area. Never at-
tempt to operate over large obstacles, such as large rocks or fallen trees.
Always follow proper procedures when operating over obstacles as de-
scribed in this manual.
• Always be careful of skidding or sliding. On slippery surfaces, such as ice,
go slowly and be very cautious in order to reduce the chance of skidding
or sliding out of control.
• Never operate an ATV in fast flowing water or in water deeper than the
footrests. Remember that wet brakes may have reduced stopping capa-
bility. Test your brakes after leaving water. If necessary, apply them lightly
several times to let friction dry out the pads.
• Always be sure there are no obstacles or people behind you when you
operate in reverse. When it is safe to proceed in reverse, go slowly. Avoid
turning at sharp angles in reverse.
• Always use the size and type tires specified in this manual. Always main-
tain proper tire pressure as described in this manual.
• Never improperly install or improperly use accessories on this ATV.
• Never exceed the stated load capacity for an ATV. Cargo should be prop-
erly distributed and securely attached. Reduce speed and follow instruc-
tions in this manual for carrying cargo or pulling a trailer and allow greater
distance for braking.

6
Rider Training Course
You should be aware that AN ATV IS NOT A TOYAND CAN BE HAZARDOUS
TO OPERATE. An ATV handles differently from other vehicles, including
motorcycles and cars. A collision or rollover can occur quickly, even during
routine manoeuvres such as turning and driving on hills and over obstacles, if
you fail to take proper precautions.
TO AVOID DEATH OR SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY:
• Always read the operator’s manual carefully and follow the operating
procedures described. Pay special attention to the warnings contained
in the manual and on all labels.
• Never operate an ATV without proper instruction. Take a training course.
• Never operate an ATV without an approved motorcycle helmet, eye
protection, boots, gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket.
• Never operate an ATV at excessive speeds. Go at a speed which is
proper for the terrain, visibility conditions, and your experience.
• Never attempt to do wheelies, jumps, or other stunts.
• lways be careful when operating an ATV, especially when approaching
hills, turns, and obstacles and when operating on unfamiliar or rough
terrain.
• Never lend an ATV to anyone who has not taken a training course or
has not been driving an ATV for at least a year.

Hangtags & Warning Information
This Arctic Cat ATV comes with a hangtag and several labels containing
important safety 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 labels.
7

8
Warning Labels
A
C F
E
H

Location of parts and controls (400 2x4 & 400 4x4)
9
1. Battery
2. Headlights
3. Hand Brake Lever
4. Fuel Valve
5. Seat Lock Lever
6. Brake Pedal
7. Brake Lever Lock
8. Key Switch
9. Shift Lever
10. Throttle Limiter
11. Drive Selector (model 4x4)
12. Throttle Lever
13. Engine Starter Button
14. Taillight/Brakelight
15. Mirror
16. Operator’s Manual Location
17. Headlight LI/LO/HI Switch
18. Tool Kit
19. Horn
20. Turn Light Switch
21. Hazard Warning Switch
12
12
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
14
16
15 15
18
13
17
19
20
21

! WARNINGS
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Operating this ATV without
wearing an approved helmet,
eye protection and protective
clothing.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Operating without an approved
helmet increases your chances
of a severe head injury or death
in the event of an accident.
Operating without eye protec-
tion can result in an accident
and increases your chances of
a severe injury in the event of an
accident.
Operating without protective
clothing increases your chances
of severe injury in the event of
an accident.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Always wear an approved helmet that fits properly.
You should also wear:
10
Warnings
ATV-0004
Protective
clothing
Goggles
Helmet Gloves
Boots
Eye protection (goggles or face shield)
Gloves
Boots
Long sleeved shirt or jacket
Long pants

Warnings
11
WARNINGS
! WARNINGS
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Operating this ATV at excessive speeds.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Increases your chances or losing control of the ATV, which can
result in an accident.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Always ride at a speed that is proper for the terrain, visibility and
operating conditions, and your experience.

12
! WARNINGS
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Attempting wheelies, jumps and other stunts.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Increases the chance of an accident including a rollover.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Never attempt stunts, such as wheelies or jumps. Don’t try to
show off.
Warnings
ATV-00 05

13
! WARNINGS
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Failure to inspect the ATV before operating. Failure to properly
maintain the ATV.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Increases the possibility of an accident or equipment damage.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Always inspect your ATV each time you use it to make sure the
ATV is in safe operating condition.
Always follow the inspection and maintenance procedures and
schedules described in this Operator’s Manual.
! WARNINGS
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Removing hands from handlebars or feet from footrests during
operation.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Removing even one hand or foot can reduce your ability to control
the ATV or could cause you to lose your balance and fall off the
ATV. If you remove a foot from a footrest, your foot or leg may
come into contact with the wheels, which could injure you or cause
an accident.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Always keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the
footrests of your ATV during operation.
Warnings
WARNINGS

14
! WARNINGS
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Failure to use extra care when operating the ATV on unfamiliar
terrain.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
You can come upon hidden rocks, bumps, or holes without enough
time to react.
Could result in the ATV overturning or going out of control.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Go slowly and be extra careful when operating on unfamiliar
terrain.
Always be alert to changing terrain conditions when operating the
ATV.
Warnings
ATV-0006

15
! WARNINGS
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Failure to use extra care when operating on rough, slippery, or
loose terrain.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Could cause loss of traction or ATV control, which could result in
an accident including a rollover.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Do not operate on rough, slippery, or loose terrain until you have
learned and practiced the skills necessary to control the ATV on
such terrain.
Always be especially cautious on these kinds of terrain.
Warnings
WARNINGS
ATV-00 07

16
! WARNINGS
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Turning improperly.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
ATV could go out of control, causing a collision or rollover.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Always follow proper procedures for turning as described in this
Operator’s Manual.
Practice turning at slow speeds before attempting to turn at faster
speeds.
Do not turn at excessive speed.
! WARNINGS
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Operating on steep hills.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
The ATV can overturn more
easily on steep hills than on
level surfaces or small hills.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Never operate the ATV on hills
too steep for the ATV or for your abilities.
Practice on smaller hills before attempting larger hills.
Warnings
ATV-0008

17
! WARNINGS
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Climbing hills improperly.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Could cause loss of
control or cause
the ATV to overturn.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Always follow proper procedures
for climbing hills as described in
this Operator’s Manual.
Always check the terrain carefully before you start up any hill.
Never climb hills with slippery or loose surfaces. Shift your weight
forward.
Never open the throttle suddenly or make sudden gear changes.
The ATV could flip over backwards.
Never go over the top of any hill at high speed. An obstacle, a
sharp drop, or another vehicle or person could be on the other
side of the hill.
Warnings
WARNINGS
739-503A
NEVER OPERATE UP OR DOWN HILLS
STEEPER THAN 25°

18
! WARNINGS
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Going down a hill improperly.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Could cause loss of control or
cause the ATV to overturn.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Always follow proper procedures
for going down hills as described
in this Operator’s Manual.
Always check the terrain
carefully before you start down any hill.
Shift your weight backward.
Never go down a hill at high speed.
Avoid going down a hill at an angle that would cause the ATV
to lean sharply to one side. Go straight down the hill where
possible.
Warnings
ATV- 0 0 0 9

! WARNINGS
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Improperly crossing hills or turning
on hills.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Could cause loss of control or
cause the ATV to overturn.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Never attempt to turn the
ATV around on any hill until
you have mastered the turning
technique as described in this
Operator’s Manual. Practice first on level ground.
Be very careful when turning on any hill.
Avoid crossing the side of a steep hill, if possible.
When crossing the side of a hill:
Always follow proper procedures as described in this Operator’s
Manual.
Avoid hills with slippery or loose surfaces. Shift your weight to the
uphill side of the ATV.
ATV-001 0
19
Warnings
WARNINGS