Argo 8x8 Titan User manual

OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
MANUAL NO. 671-22 Printed in Canada 08/2012
Do not remove this
manual from this vehicle.

A MESSAGE FROM THE PEOPLE WHO BUILT YOUR ARGO
Thank you for selecting an ARGO amphibious, off-road utility vehicle!
Ontario Drive & Gear Limited has been building ARGO vehicles since 1967. By listening carefully
to our customers and responding to their needs, we have been constantly improving the ARGO
and will continue to do so.
Over thirty thousand ARGO vehicles have provided reliable service all over the world. From
Britain to the Far East, Alaska to the Antarctic, and from the tropical forests of South America
to the deserts of Saudi Arabia. We are proud to provide you with a vehicle that represents the
ultimate in amphibious, all-terrain transportation.
Your safety and the safety of all ARGO users is of the greatest concern to us. You will nd numer-
ous safety statements in this manual. Please read and follow them carefully. Always be safety
conscious when you operate your ARGO and remember it is a motorized vehicle.
The ARGO is easy to drive and you will soon be tempted to take on new challenges. Please take
the time to develop your driving skills before doing so. Observe the recommendations outlined in
this Operator’s Manual and remember; some things are just impossible, even with an ARGO.
WELCOME TO THE WORLD WIDE ARGO FAMILY!
673-12 Argo Titan Service Manual
673-12CD Argo Titan Service Manual on CD-ROM
Ontario Drive & Gear has produced resources which provide the Argo owner
with step-by-step instructions on how to perform general service procedures
on vehicles produced since 1992. Everything from removal and replacement
of brake pads to rebuilding the transmission. It’s all there. Removal and re-
placement of engines is included, however, engine overhaul is not. A separate
overhaul manual is available for the EFI engine from an authorized Kohler or
Argo dealer.

Read this manual before you operate your ARGO. It contains safe operating
instructions and warns the user about potential hazards that can result in personal
injury.
Warnings are identied in the text by the following symbol:
Warning text warns the user about potential hazards that can result in personal
injury or death.
Cautions are identied in the text by the following symbol:
This manual is based on the latest product information available at the time of
printing. Ontario Drive & Gear Limited reserves the right to make changes at
any time and without obligation.
Reproduction of any part of this publication is prohibited without prior written
permission.
Une version francaise du manuel d’operation est disponsible sous le numero suiv-
ant 671-22FR. Les plaquettes d’avertissement et d’instructions qui apparaissent
sur l’Argo sont aussi disponsibles en francais sous le numero suivant 126-73.
© 2012 Ontario Drive & Gear Limited
I
Caution text contains cautions that can prevent damage to the vehicle.

II
PREFACE
This manual describes the controls, operation and basic maintenance procedures for the Titan model of the ARGO from date of
printing. Please take the time to read this manual carefully, for your safety and that of others. By following these instructions,
you will ensure extended, trouble free operation of your vehicle.
For maintenance and adjustment of the engine, refer to the engine manufacturer’s operation and maintenance manual included
in your vehicle’s information package.
Before you drive your ARGO, make sure you understand how to use all controls, particularly the brakes and steering system.
Learn how to drive your vehicle in an open level area, away from buildings, trees and other obstacles, until you are completely
familiar with its operating characteristics. Drive very slowly until your driving skills improve, and drive with caution and con-
sideration at all times. The risk of accident or injury is greatest during the rst few weeks of use. Take special care during this
period. ALWAYS RESPECT OUR ENVIRONMENT.
CAUTION TO THE ARGO OWNER/OPERATOR
• Make sure everyone who drives this vehicle receives proper operating instructions and reads this Operator’s Manual.
• No one under the age of 16 should be allowed to operate the ARGO. Children under the age of 16 may not have the skills,
abilities or judgement needed to operate the ARGO safely and may be involved in an accident causing severe injury or death.
• Never allow anyone under the inuence of alcohol or any other intoxicating substance to drive or ride in the vehicle.
• Wear an approved safety helmet and eye protection when driving or riding in the vehicle.
• Special operating and safety procedures described in this manual must be observed before and during water operation as
outlined in Section 5.
• When operating your vehicle for extended periods of time, we recommend the use of approved hearing protection.
• Equip your vehicle with a re extinguisher and a rst aid kit.
• Equip your vehicle with basic tools for emergency repairs.
• Before starting your engine, check for spilled fuel and wipe any up immediately. Any fuel is a potentially explosive substance
that can cause serious personal injury when ignited.
• Keep the oor pans secured in place at all times. Fingers, feet, animal tails or paws can be injured in the drive components
beneath the oor pans. The oor pans also help keep damaging debris out of the drive components.
• Make sure all passengers remain seated while the vehicle is in motion. Advise your passengers to hold onto the vehicle at
all times.
• Wear seatbelts when riding in a vehicle equipped with a ROPS.
• Never overload your vehicle. Trying to steer an overloaded vehicle can overheat the brakes. This will lead to brake fade
which means loss of steering control and the ability to stop the vehicle. Overloading your vehicle can lead to premature
brake system failures and costly damage to drive chains, axles or bearings. Follow the recommended load capacity for your
vehicle listed in Section 1.
• Do not drive the vehicle at high speeds over unfamiliar or rough terrain. Personal injury or vehicle damage may result.
• Certain terrain and steep hills cannot be traversed safely with the ARGO or any other vehicle. Do not attempt to drive over
terrain that is questionable.
• Use common sense at all times when driving your vehicle.
• The ARGO engine hood is designed to stay fastened in place while the vehicle is being driven. If the ARGO is transported
by truck or trailer, the hood should be removed and carried in the transport vehicle or secured in place on the ARGO with
rope or tie down straps. Wind or turbulence at road speeds could result in the loss of the hood.
IMPORTANT
Operate this vehicle with safety constantly in mind. Off-road vehicles face unpredictable and often hazardous terrain condi-
tions. It is ultimately the operator’s responsibility to handle the vehicle safely within its limitations and to decide when and
where to travel.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 AMPHIBIOUS OPERATION............................................................................................ 1
1.2 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES ................................................................................... 1
1.3 WIND CHILL FACTOR ................................................................................................. 1
1.4 MODEL IDENTIFICATION ............................................................................................. 1
1.4.1 Argo Vehicle Capacity ......................................................................................... 2
1.5 IDENTIFICATION AND LOCATION OF CONTROLS.................................................. 3
1.6 INFORMATION LABELS ................................................................................................ 4
2.0 GENERAL OPERATING INFORMATION
2.1 NEW VEHICLE “BREAK-IN” PROCEDURE ................................................................ 5
2.2 PRE-OPERATION CHECKS ............................................................................................ 5
2.3 CARRYING PASSENGERS AND CARGO..................................................................... 5
2.4 OPERATORS WITH DISABILITIES ............................................................................... 5
2.5 FUELLING THE VEHICLE ............................................................................................. 7
2.6 VENTED FUEL SYSTEM - ALL MODELS.................................................................... 7
3.0 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
3.1 BRAKES AND STEERING .............................................................................................. 8
3.2 STEERING POSITION ADJUSTMENT .......................................................................... 8
3.3 EMERGENCY/PARKING BRAKE SYSTEM ................................................................ 8
3.4 THROTTLE CONTROL ................................................................................................... 9
3.5 STARTING PROCEDURE................................................................................................ 9
3.6 NEUTRAL START SWITCH............................................................................................ 9
3.7 PRIMING PROCEDURE .................................................................................................. 9
3.8 STOPPING THE ENGINE ................................................................................................ 9
3.9 SELECTING AND CHANGING TRANSMISSION GEARS ......................................... 10
3.9.1 Changing Transmission Gears ............................................................................. 10
3.10 HEADLIGHTS ............................................................................................................... 10
4.0 DRIVING PROCEDURES
4.1 DRIVING STRAIGHT AHEAD ....................................................................................... 11
4.2 STOPPING THE VEHICLE.............................................................................................. 11
4.3 TURNING THE VEHICLE ............................................................................................... 11
4.3.1 Left Turn .............................................................................................................. 11
4.3.2 Right Turn............................................................................................................ 11
4.4 BACKING THE VEHICLE UP......................................................................................... 11
4.4.1 Turning the Vehicle While Backing Up............................................................... 11
4.5 ADMIRAL Operating Advantage ...................................................................................... 12
4.5.1 Selecting Forward, Neutral, Reverse, High or Low ............................................ 12
4.5.2 Recommended Gear Selections ........................................................................... 12
5.0 DRIVING PROCEDURES IN UNUSUAL CONDITIONS
5.1 REMOTE AREA USE ....................................................................................................... 13
5.2 ANGLE OF OPERATION................................................................................................. 13
5.3 UPHILL OPERATION ...................................................................................................... 13
5.4 DOWNHILL OPERATION ............................................................................................... 13
5.5 SIDE SLOPE OPERATION .............................................................................................. 13
5.6 AMPHIBIOUS OPERATION - GENERAL...................................................................... 14
III
SECTION
PAGE

SECTION PAGE
5.6.1 Entering Water .................................................................................................... 15
5.6.2 Driving Procedures in Water............................................................................... 15
5.6.3 Driving Out of Water .......................................................................................... 15
5.7 WINTER OPERATION .................................................................................................... 15
5.7.1 Use on Ice Covered Bodies of Water.................................................................. 16
6.0 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION
6.1 ENGINE OIL INFORMATION........................................................................................ 17
6.1.1 Checking the Engine Oil Level........................................................................... 17
6.1.2 Recommended Engine Oil.................................................................................. 17
6.1.3 Changing Engine Oil .......................................................................................... 17
Draining the Engine Oil...................................................................................... 17
Relling the Engine ............................................................................................ 18
6.2 TRANSMISSION OIL INFORMATION ......................................................................... 18
6.2.1 Checking the Transmission Oil Level ................................................................ 18
6.2.2 Changing the Transmission Oil ......................................................................... 18
Relling the Transmission ................................................................................. 18
6.3 FILTER INFORMATION ................................................................................................. 18
6.3.1 Air Filter ............................................................................................................. 18
6.3.2 Fuel Filter ........................................................................................................... 19
6.4 LUBRICATION INFORMATION.................................................................................... 19
6.4.1 General................................................................................................................ 19
6.4.2 Clutch Lubrication .............................................................................................. 19
6.4.3 Drive Chain Lubrication ..................................................................................... 19
6.4.4 Automatic Chain Oiler System (if equipped) ..................................................... 19
6.4.5 Axle Bearing Lubrication ................................................................................... 20
6.4.6 Output Shaft Lubrication .................................................................................... 20
7.0 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
7.1 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM.................................................................................................. 21
7.1.1 GENERAL.......................................................................................................... 21
7.1.2 BATTERY........................................................................................................... 21
Checking the Fluid Level.................................................................................... 21
In-Vehicle Service and Testing ........................................................................... 22
Safe Installation .................................................................................................. 22
Check the Charging System ............................................................................... 22
Charging Tips ..................................................................................................... 22
Battery Storage Tips .......................................................................................... 23
Jump Starting ..................................................................................................... 23
Cleaning the Battery Terminals and Cable Connections .................................... 23
Cleaning the Battery ........................................................................................... 23
7.1.3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FUSES ...................................................................... 23
7.1.4 SPARK PLUGS .................................................................................................. 23
7.1.5 SPARK ARRESTER........................................................................................... 24
7.2 DRIVE SYSTEM & TIRES.............................................................................................. 24
7.2.1 DRIVE BELT.......................................................................................................24
IV
TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Drive Belt Adjustment ........................................................................................ 24
Drive Belt Removal ............................................................................................ 25
Drive Belt Installation......................................................................................... 25
7.2.2 CLUTCH MAINTENANCE .............................................................................. 25
Clutch Inspection ................................................................................................ 26
7.2.3 DRIVE CHAINS ................................................................................................ 26
Drive Chain Removal ......................................................................................... 26
Drive Chain Installation...................................................................................... 26
7.2.4 SLIDER BLOCK REPLACEMENT.................................................................. 27
7.2.5 TIRE INFLATION.............................................................................................. 27
7.2.6 TIRE REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT ............................................................. 28
7.3 HYDRAULIC BRAKES .................................................................................................. 28
7.3.1 GENERAL.......................................................................................................... 28
7.3.2 BRAKE FLUID LEVEL .................................................................................... 28
7.3.3 CHANGING BRAKE FLUID............................................................................ 29
7.3.4 BRAKE PAD INSPECTION - Steering Brakes ................................................. 29
Firewall Removal................................................................................................ 29
Brake Pad Inspection Procedure......................................................................... 29
Re-installation of Brake Pads ............................................................................. 29
Handbrake Inspection ......................................................................................... 30
Brake Pad Inspection Procedure......................................................................... 30
Re-installation of Firewall .................................................................................. 30
7.3.5 EMERGENCY/PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTMENT ....................................... 30
Adjusting the Emergency/Parking Brake .......................................................... 30
7.3.6 BRAKE PLUNGER ADJUSTMENT ................................................................ 31
7.3.7 ENGINE COOLING & EXHAUST SYSTEM.................................................. 31
7.4 DAILY CHECKLIST ........................................................................................................ 32
7.5 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE........................................................................................ 33
8.0 TROUBLESHOOTING ...................................................................................................................... 34
9.0 CLEANING AND STORAGE
9.1 CLEANING THE VEHICLE ............................................................................................ 36
9.2 STORING THE VEHICLE ............................................................................................... 36
Clean the Vehicle .............................................................................................................. 36
Drain the Fuel System ....................................................................................................... 36
Prepare the Battery for Storage ......................................................................................... 36
Protect the Electrical System............................................................................................. 36
Raise the Vehicle ............................................................................................................... 36
Preparing the Engine for Storage ...................................................................................... 36
10.0 POTENTIAL HAZARDS................................................................................................................... 37
11.0 ACCESSORY INFORMATION
11.1 GENERAL ...................................................................................................................... 41
11.2 REAR CARGO TIE-DOWNS (Part No. 849-116) ........................................................... 41
11.3 ARGO TRACK SYSTEMS (All Season Track Kit & Rubber Track Kit)........................ 41
11.3.1 Track Installation ................................................................................................ 41
V
SECTION PAGE

SECTION PAGE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
11.3.2 Operating Precautions....................................................................................................... 42
11.3.3 Installing the Axle Extensions .......................................................................................... 43
11.3.4 Operating Precautions (All Track Systems) ..................................................................... 44
11.3.5 Rubber Tracks................................................................................................................... 45
Installation Instructions ................................................................................................... 45
11.3.6 Removal of Argo Rubber Track Systems ......................................................................... 46
11.4 ICE CLEAT KIT (Part Nos. 825-20 & 825-21) .............................................................................. 46
11.5 WINCH KIT (Part No. 622-133) .................................................................................................... 46
11.5.1 Rules for Safe Operation .................................................................................................. 46
11.5.2 Tips for Extending the Life of Your Winch ...................................................................... 48
11.6 RECEIVER WINCH KIT ............................................................................................................... 49
11.7 BILGE PUMP KIT (Part No. 849-146)........................................................................................... 49
11.8 SNOW PLOW KIT (Part No. 657-106) .......................................................................................... 49
11.8.1 Operation Guidelines ....................................................................................................... 49
11.9 UTILITY TRAILER (Part No. 695-80BL) ..................................................................................... 49
11.10.1 Operating Precautions....................................................................................................... 49
11.10 ROLL OVER PROTECTIVE STRUCTURES............................................................................... 50
11.11 FOUR POINT LIFT KIT (Part No. 848-121) ................................................................................. 50
11.12 MUD FLAP EXTENDERS ............................................................................................................ 50
APPENDIX
1 SPECIAL TOOLS
7R VICE GRIP MODIFICATION .................................................................................................. 51
VI

1
SECTION 1
GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 AMPHIBIOUS OPERATION
All models of the ARGO are amphibious and capable of tra-
versing calm water. Special operating procedures and safety
precautions must be observed before entering the water and
during amphibious operation. Do not drive your vehicle into
water until you have read Section 5.6 Amphibious Opera-
tion.
Operators with disabilities need to take certain precautions
in the interest of their own safety. Refer to Section 2.4 of this
manual for more details.
1.2 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
Maintenance procedures described in this manual can be car-
ried out by the operator. These procedures include:
1. checking uid levels
2. changing the engine and transmission oil
3. cleaning and replacing lters
4. preventative maintenance
5. inspections, adjustments, repairs and trouble-shooting
If you perform your own maintenance, carefully follow the
lubrication and preventative maintenance schedule (Page 33).
By following this schedule, you will receive trouble free, long
term service from your vehicle. The following comprehensive
ARGO service information is available:
•673-12 TITAN Service Manual
Your Argo dealer will perform regular maintenance and lu-
brication for a reasonable service charge.
The trouble-shooting chart (Section 8) contains information
for locating and correcting mechanical problems. In many
cases, potential problems can be identied by unusual noises,
sluggishness or vibration, before they result in a breakdown.
Refer to the chart to identify these symptoms. Take immedi-
ate corrective action or take the vehicle to an Argo dealer for
service.
This manual does not provide detailed maintenance or servic-
ing information for the engine. Refer to the engine manu-
facturer’s manual (supplied with each Argo) for important
warranty, service and operating information.
If the engine requires servicing, take the vehicle to an author-
ized engine service outlet.
1.3 WIND CHILL FACTOR
Why does it feel much colder outdoors on a windy day than
when there’s no wind, especially in winter?
The cooling effect of the wind makes it feel that it’s colder than
it really is. This combined effect of wind and low temperature
is known as the “wind chill factor”.
Argo operators should be aware of the wind chill factor. Dress
warmly and make sure exposed skin is protected. Pay par-
ticular attention that young passengers are properly “bundled
up” with their hands and faces well protected.
1.4 MODEL IDENTIFICATION
Vehicles are identied by a 17 digit vehicle identication
number located on the lower dash in front of the front left
seat - see Section 1.6 for exact location. The model and serial
numbers are stamped into it. The last 6 digits of this number
begin with the letter K.

2
SECTION 1
GENERAL INFORMATION
Carefully observe the maximum load capacity for your vehicle
on land and in water as listed in the following:
8x8 Titan
Engine: Kohler 748 cc (31 h.p.) V-twin 4 cycle, liquid cooled
Transmission: Forward, neutral and reverse with high/low range
Clutch: Variable speed torque converter
Fuel Capacity: 36 Litre (9.5 U.S Gal.)
Steering/Brakes: Hydraulic steering disc brakes with hydraulic disc
stopping brakes
Drive Chains: Single RS60-HT-1 Roller chains
Electrical: 12 volt D.C. battery, 775 cranking amps at 0 F;
40 Amp charging system, electronic ignition
Speed: Land - 27 km/hr (17 mph)
Water - 5 km/h (3 mph)
Load Capacity: Land - 590kg (1300 lbs)
SEE SECT.1.4.1 Water - 4 adults or 454kg (1000 lbs)
Tires: 25x12.00-9NHS, 4 ply
Dry Weight: 725kg (1600 lbs)
1.4.1 Argo Vehicle Capacity
Vehicle capacity includes occupants, cargo, fuel, and
all accessories. Capacity for occupants and cargo is
reduced by the weight of accessories as shown in the
following chart.
Available vehicle capacity must be reduced if your vehicle is
equipped with any accessories. Reduce the available capacity
by the total weight of accessories tted to your vehicle.
Reduce By
Accessory On On
On Vehicle Land Water
18" Rubber Track 8x8 310 lbs. (140 kg) 185 lbs. (85 kg)
15" Multi-Purpose Track 310 (140) 500 (225)
Winch Kit 50 (23) 50 (23)
Brush Guard 15 (7) 15 (7)
Windshield 33 (15) 33 (15)
ROPS (2 person) 130 (60) 130 (60)
ROPS (4 person) 180 (80) 180 (80)
Snow Plow 190 (85) SEE WARNING
Dump Box 165 (75) 165 (75)
Suspension Seats 110 (50) 110 (50)
Rear Bench Seat 45 (20) 45 (20)
Hard Roof (2 person) 22 (10) 22 (10)
Hard Roof (4 person) 44 (20) 44 (20)
Mud Flaps (3/4 length) 22 (10) 22 (10)
Mud Flaps (full length) 75 (35) 75 (35)
Do NOT use an Argo on water when equipped with a
snow plow. The increased weight of the snow plow out
front will make the Argo unstable and could cause the
vehicle to capsize, causing injury or drowning to the
driver and passengers.