Arctic Cat PROWLER XT User manual

Prowler XT
Prowler XTX
Prowler XTZ
ROV
SHARE OUR PASSION.
TM
2012
Operator’s Manual
Do not remove this Operator’s Manual from this ROV
according to the guidelines and agreement with the U.S.
Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Read this manual carefully.
It contains important safety information.
Always use common sense when operating this vehicle.
UNDER
16
! WARNING
Operating this ROV if you are under
the age of 16 increases your chance
of serious injury or death.
NEVER operate this ROV if you are
not 16 or older and possess a valid
drivers license.

This vehicle can be hazardous to
operate.
A collision or rollover can occur quickly, even during what you think are routine
maneuvers such as driving or turning on flat terrain, driving on hills, or crossing
obstacles, if you fail to take proper precautions. For your safety, understand and fol-
low all the warnings contained in this Operator’s Manual and on the labels on this
vehicle.
Keep this Operator’s Manual with this vehicle at all times. If you lose your manual,
contact Arctic Cat for a free replacement. The labels should be considered permanent
parts of the Prowler. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact Arctic Cat
for a free replacement. Contact Arctic Cat Inc., Service Department, P.O. Box 810,
Thief River Falls, MN 56701, for proper registration information.
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:
California Proposition 65
Always use common sense when
operating this vehicle.
!
The Safety Alert Symbol means ATTENTION!
BE ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
! WARNING
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.
CAUTION
CAUTION, without the safety alert symbol, is
used to address practices not related to per-
sonal injury.
NOTE:
A NOTE provides key information to make pro-
cedures easier or more clear.
! WARNING
This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

1
Foreword
Congratulations and thank you from Arc-
tic Cat Inc. for purchasing an ARCTIC
CAT®Prowler. Built with American engi-
neering and manufacturing know-how, it
is designed to provide superior ride, com-
fort, utility, and dependable service.
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 this vehicle.
Carefully read the following pages. If
you have any questions regarding this
vehicle, contact an authorized Arctic Cat
dealer for assistance. Remember, only
authorized Arctic Cat dealers have the
knowledge and facilities to provide you
with the best service possible.
• Become familiar with all local and
state/provincial laws governing ROV
operation,
• Respect your vehicle,
• Respect the environment, and
• Respect private property and do not
trespass.
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 vehicle are
thoroughly inspected at various intervals.
All information in this manual is based
on the latest product data and specifica-
tions available at the time of printing.
Arctic Cat Inc. reserves the right to make
product changes and improvements
which may affect illustrations or explana-
tions without notice.
You have chosen a quality Arctic Cat
product designed and manufactured to
give dependable service. Be sure, as the
owner/operator of this vehicle, to become
thoroughly familiar with its basic opera-
tion, maintenance, and storage procedures.
Read and understand the entire Operator’s
Manual before operating this vehicle to
ensure safe and proper use. Always oper-
ate the vehicle within your level of skill
and current terrain conditions.
Division II of this manual covers opera-
tor-related maintenance, operating
instructions, and storage instructions. If
major repair or service is ever required,
contact an authorized Arctic Cat dealer
for professional service.
At the time of publication, all informa-
tion and illustrations in this manual were
technically correct. Some illustrations
used in this manual are used for clarity
purposes only and are not designed to
depict actual conditions. Because Arctic
Cat Inc. constantly refines and improves
its products, no retroactive obligation is
incurred.
Operation of this vehicle is restricted to
people 16 years of age and older who
possess a valid driver’s license. Passen-
gers must be able to place both feet flat
on the floor while keeping their back
against the back of the seat and holding
on to an available hand hold.
Protect Your Sport
Parts and
Accessories
When in need of replacement parts, oil,
or accessories for this vehicle, be sure
to use only GENUINE ARCTIC CAT
PARTS, OIL, AND ACCESSORIES.
Only genuine Arctic Cat parts, oil, and
accessories are engineered to meet the
standards and requirements of this
vehicle. For a complete list of accesso-
ries, refer to the current Arctic Cat ATV
Accessory Catalog.
To aid in service and maintenance pro-
cedures on this vehicle, a Service Man-
ual and an Illustrated Parts Manual are
available through your local Arctic Cat
dealer.

2
Table of Contents
Foreword.................................................1
Parts and Accessories .......................... 1
DIVISION I - SAFETY
Safety Alert............................................. 4
Warning Labels ...................................5-6
Location of Parts and Controls ............ 7
Warnings ...........................................8-16
DIVISION II -
OPERATION/
MAINTENANCE
Specifications ...................................... 17
Vehicle Operation ...........................18-23
General Information........................24-36
Vehicle Identification Numbers..........24
Ignition Switch Key............................24
Control Locations And Functions ...... 24
Occupant Side Restraints ................. 28
Power Steering (XTX/XTZ) ...............28
LCD Gauge (XTZ)...................................29
LCD Gauge (XT/XTX)............................31
Electric Fuel Pump............................ 32
Gas Hoses ........................................ 32
Oil Level Stick ...................................32
Load Capacity Ratings Chart............ 33
Trailering and Towing ........................ 33
Transporting This Vehicle..................34
Gasoline-Oil-Lubricant ...................... 34
Engine Break-In ................................36
Burnishing Brake Pads...................... 36
General Maintenance......................37-50
Maintenance Schedule .....................38
Liquid Cooling System.......................39
Oil Cooler (XTZ) ................................39
Shock Absorbers ...............................39
General Lubrication ...........................40
Hydraulic Brake .................................41
Protective Rubber Boots ...................42
Battery...............................................43
Spark Plug(s) ....................................46
Air Filter/Housing Drain .....................46
Draining V-Belt Cover ........................47
Tires ..................................................47
Wheels ..............................................48
Muffler/Spark Arrester .......................48
Light Bulb Replacement ....................48
Checking/Adjusting Headlight Aim ....49
Fuses.................................................49
Electrical Output Terminals ...............50
Storage Compartment/Tools .............50
Seat Belts ..........................................50
Occupant Side Restraints..................50
ROPS ................................................50
Preparation For Storage ......................51
Preparation After Storage ...................52
Limited Warranty..................................54
Warranty Procedure/Owner
Responsibility...................................55
U.S. EPA Emission Control Statement/
Warranty Coverage - ROV (U.S. Only)... 56
Change of Address, Ownership, or
Warranty Transfer.............................57
Maintenance Record ............................59
Identification Numbers Record.... Inside
Back Cover

DIVISION I - SAFETY
! WARNING Indicates a potential hazard that could
result in a serious injury or death.
3
DIVISION I - SAFETY
THIS VEHICLE IS NOT A TOY AND CAN
BE HAZARDOUS TO OPERATE.
•Alwaysgo slowly and be extra careful when operating on unfamiliar terrain. Always be
alert to changing terrain conditions when operating this vehicle.
• Never operate on excessively rough, slippery, or loose terrain.
•Always
follow proper procedures for turning as described in this manual. Practice turn-
ing at slow speeds before attempting to turn at faster speeds. Do not turn at excessive
speed.
•Always
have the vehicle checked by an authorized Arctic Cat dealer if it has been
involved in an accident.
• Never operate on hills too steep 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. Never depress the accelerator suddenly or make gear changes while moving.
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.
Never go down a hill at high speed. Avoid going down a hill at an angle which would
cause the vehicle to lean sharply to one side. Go straight down the hill where possible.
•Always
be careful when you decide to climb or descend a hill and never turn on a hill.
Drive straight up or down inclines and not across them. If you must cross the side of a
hill, drive slowly and stop or turn downhill if you feel the vehicle may tip.
•Always
use proper procedures if you stall or roll backward when climbing a hill. To
avoid stalling, maintain a steady speed when climbing a hill. If you stall or roll back-
wards, follow the special procedure for braking described in this manual.
•Always
check for obstacles before operating in a new area. Never attempt to operate
over large obstacles, such as large rocks or fallen trees. Always follow proper proce-
dures when operating over obstacles as described 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 this vehicle in fast flowing water or in water deeper than the floorboard.
Remember that wet brakes may have reduced stopping capability. 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 maintain proper tire
pressure as described in this manual.
• Never improperly install or improperly use accessories on this vehicle.
• Never exceed the stated load capacity for this vehicle. Cargo should be properly distrib-
uted and securely attached. Reduce speed and follow instructions in this manual for car-
rying cargo or pulling a trailer and allow greater distance for braking.
• Operation of this vehicle is restricted to people 16 years of age and older who possess a
valid driver’s license. Passengers must be able to place both feet flat on the floor while
keeping their back against the back of the seat and holding on to an available hand hold.

! WARNING Indicates a potential hazard that could
result in a serious injury or death.
4
Safety Alert
You should be aware that THIS VEHI-
CLE IS NOT A TOY AND CAN BE
HAZARDOUS TO OPERATE. This
vehicle handles differently from other
vehicles, including motorcycles and cars.
A collision or rollover can occur quickly,
even during what you think are routine
maneuvers such as turning, driving on
hills, and going over obstacles, if you fail
to take proper precautions.
TO AVOID SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH:
*Alwaysread 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.
*Always
wear the seat belt when oper-
ating or riding in this vehicle.
*Always
follow these age recommen-
dations:
• Operation of this vehicle is restricted
to people 16 years of age and older
who possess a valid driver’s license.
Passengers must be able to place both
feet flat on the floor while keeping
their back against the back of the seat
and holding on to the hand hold.
* Never carry a passenger in the cargo
box of this vehicle.
* Never operate this vehicle on a public
road, even a dirt or gravel one,
because you may not be able to avoid
colliding with other vehicles.
* Never operate this vehicle without an
approved motorcycle helmet, eye
protection, boots, gloves, long pants
and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket.
*Never
consume alcohol or drugs
before or while operating this vehi-
cle.
*Never
operate this vehicle at exces-
sive speeds. Go at a speed which is
proper for the terrain, visibility con-
ditions, and your experience.
*Never
attempt to do wheelies, jumps,
or other stunts.
*Always
be careful when operating
this vehicle, especially when
approaching hills, turns, and obsta-
cles and when operating on unfamil-
iar or rough terrain.
*Never
operate this vehicle with the
cargo box lifted or removed.
*Never
operate this vehicle in fast
flowing water or in water deeper than
the floorboard.
*Never
operate this vehicle with the
ROPS removed. The ROPS provides
a structure helping to limit intrusions
by branches or other objects and may
reduce your risk of injury in acci-
dents.
*Never
put your hands or feet outside
the vehicle for any reason while the
vehicle is in motion. Do not hold
onto the ROPS or hip restraint bar. If
you think or feel the vehicle may tip,
do not put your hands or feet outside
the vehicle as they will not be able to
prevent the vehicle from tipping.
Any part of your body (arms, legs, or
head) outside the vehicle can be
crushed by passing objects, the vehi-
cle, or ROPS.
* Always fasten occupant side
restraints prior to moving the vehicle.

DIVISION I - SAFETY
! WARNING Indicates a potential hazard that could
result in a serious injury or death.
5
Warning Labels
Pour commander des Etiquettes de Mise en Garde gratuites, voyez votre détailant de
autorisé VTT Arctic Cat pour le numéro de pièce 1436-444.
PR733B

! WARNING Indicates a potential hazard that could
result in a serious injury or death.
6
Warning Labels
PR730B

DIVISION I - SAFETY
! WARNING Indicates a potential hazard that could
result in a serious injury or death.
7
Location of Parts and Controls
PR731A
PR734A
PR747A
PR738A
1. Battery
2. Headlights
3. Parking Brake
4. Tailgate Latch
5. Reverse Override Switch
6. Seat Lock Lever
7. Under-Hood Storage Compartment
8. In-Dash Storage Compartment
9. Brake Pedal
10. Fuses
11. Ignition/Start Switch
12. Shift Lever
13. DC Power Outlets
14. Accelerator Pedal
15. Cargo Box Latch Handle
16. Taillight/Brakelight
17. Operator’s Manual Location
18. Headlight Switch
19. Driver Seat Belt
20. Passenger Seat Belt
21. Drive Select Switch
22. Tilt Steering Latch (XTX)
23. Tool Kit
24. Occupant Side Restraints
25. Seat Belt/Parking Brake Indicator
Light
26. Hip Restraint Bar
27. Occupant Side Restraint Latch

! WARNING Indicates a potential hazard that could
result in a serious injury or death.
8
Warnings
! WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Operating this vehicle without proper instruction.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
The risk of an accident is greatly increased if the operator does not know how to
operate this vehicle properly in different situations and on different types of terrain.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
All operators of this vehicle must read and understand this Operator’s Manual and
all warning and instruction labels prior to operating this vehicle.
! WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Allowing anyone under age 16 to operate this vehicle.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Use of this vehicle by children can lead to serious injury or death of the child.
Children under the age of 16 may not have the skills, abilities, or judgment needed
to operate this vehicle safely and may be involved in a serious accident.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Only people 16 years of age or older with a valid driver’s license should operate
this vehicle.
! WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Allowing passengers to ride in the cargo bed.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Serious injury or death. This vehicle is not designed to carry passengers in the
cargo bed. Passengers in the cargo bed can be thrown around or from the vehicle
during operation or in an accident.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Do not permit passengers to ride in the cargo bed. Do not install any seating in
the cargo bed.
! WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Operating this vehicle on public streets, roads, or highways.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
You can collide with another vehicle.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Never operate this vehicle on any public street, road, or highway.
In many states it is illegal to operate a vehicle of this type on public streets, roads,
or highways. Always check state and local laws and regulations.