Argo Aurora 800 User manual

OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
Do not remove this
manual from this vehicle.
Aurora 800 SX Huntmaster
Aurora 800
Aurora 800 SX
Aurora 800 Limited
Aurora 950 SX
Aurora 850 Limited
Aurora 950 SX-R
Aurora 950 Huntmaster
Aurora 850 SX-R
Aurora 850 SX Aurora 850 SX-R 8x8i
Aurora 950 SX-R 8x8i
Aurora 850 Huntmaster
MANUAL NO. 10690C rev.1 Printed in Canada 08/2020

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
suivant 10690CFR.
© 2019 Ontario Drive & Gear Limited
I
Caution text contains cautions that can prevent damage to the vehicle.
This product can expose you to chemicals including gasoline engine
exhaust, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, and
carbon monoxide, which is known to the State of California to cause
birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

A MESSAGE FROM THE PEOPLE WHO BUILT YOUR ARGO
Thank you for selecting an ARGO amphibious, o󰀨-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!

II
PREFACE
This manual describes the controls, operation and basic maintenance procedures for all Aurora models 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 instruc-
tions, 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
consideration at all times. The risk of accident or injury is greatest during the rst 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 theARGO 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 gasoline and wipe any up immediately. Gasoline 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.
• 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.
• Avoid driving your vehicle on asphalt or concrete roadways when possible. When the vehicle turns, its tires skid on the
driving surface. Asphalt or concrete causes extensive tire wear.
• Use common sense at all times when driving your vehicle.
IMPORTANT
Operate this vehicle with safety constantly in mind. O-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 LEGEND FOR OPERATOR’S MANUAL ....................................................................... 1
1.4.1 Argo Vehicle Capacity............................................................................................... 3
1.4.2 Amphibious Trailer Capacity .................................................................................... 3
1.5 REAR SEATS - 8 WHEEL MODELS............................................................................... 3
1.6 AURORA VEHICLE MATRIX......................................................................................... 5
1.7 IDENTIFICATION AND LOCATION OF CONTROLS.................................................. 8
1.8 INFORMATION LABELS ................................................................................................ 9
2.0 GENERAL OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.1 NEW VEHICLE “BREAK-IN” PROCEDURE ................................................................ 10
2.2 PRE-OPERATION CHECKS ............................................................................................ 10
2.3 CARRYING PASSENGERS AND CARGO..................................................................... 10
2.4 OPERATORS WITH DISABILITIES............................................................................... 11
2.5 FUELING THE VEHICLE................................................................................................ 12
2.6 VENTED FUEL SYSTEM - ALL MODELS.................................................................... 12
2.7 INSTRUMENT CLUSTER............................................................................................. 12
3.0 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
3.1 BRAKES AND STEERING .............................................................................................. 14
3.2 EMERGENCY/PARKING BRAKE SYSTEM ................................................................ 14
3.3 THROTTLE CONTROL ................................................................................................... 14
3.4 STARTING PROCEDURE................................................................................................ 14
3.5 PRIMING PROCEDURE.................................................................................................. 15
3.6 STOPPING THE ENGINE ................................................................................................ 15
3.7 SELECTING AND CHANGING TRANSMISSION GEARS ......................................... 15
3.8 HEADLIGHTS ............................................................................................................... 16
4.0 DRIVING PROCEDURES
4.1 DRIVING STRAIGHT AHEAD ....................................................................................... 17
4.2 STOPPING THE VEHICLE.............................................................................................. 17
4.3 TURNING THE VEHICLE............................................................................................... 17
4.3.1 Left Turn.................... ............................................................................................... 17
4.3.2 Right Turn ................ ................................................................................................ 17
4.4 BACKING THE VEHICLE UP......................................................................................... 17
4.4.1 Turnin the vehicle while backing up ........................................................................ 17
4.5 GEAR SELECTION - ADMIRAL TRANSMISSION ........................................................... 18
5.0 DRIVING PROCEDURES DURING UNUSUAL CONDITIONS
5.1 REMOTE AREA USE ..........................................................................................................19
5.2 ANGLE OF OPERATION....................................................................................................19
5.3 UPHILL OPERATION .........................................................................................................19
5.4 DOWNHILL OPERATION..................................................................................................19
5.5 SIDE SLOPE OPERATION .................................................................................................20
5.6 AMPHIBIOUS OPERATION - GENERAL.........................................................................20
5.6.1 Entering Water ........................................................................................................21
5.6.2 Driving Procedures in Water...................................................................................21
5.6.3 Driving Out of Water..............................................................................................22
5.6.4 Outboard Motor Bracket.........................................................................................22
III
SECTION
PAGE

SECTION PAGE
5.7 WINTER OPERATION........................................................................................................22
5.7.1 Use on Ice Covered Bodies of Water......................................................................22
6.0 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION
6.1 ENGINE OIL INFORMATION............................................................................................23
6.1.1 Checking the Engine Oil Level...............................................................................23
6.1.2 Recommended Engine Oil.....................................................................................23
6.1.3 Changing Engine Oil .............................................................................................24
Draining the Engine Oil..........................................................................................24
Relling the Engine ...............................................................................................24
6.2 TRANSMISSION OIL INFORMATION.............................................................................24
6.2.1 Checking the Transmission Oil Level.....................................................................24
6.2.2 Changing the Transmission Oil .............................................................................24
6.2.3 Relling the Transmission.....................................................................................25
6.3 FILTER INFORMATION.....................................................................................................25
6.3.1 Air Filter .................................................................................................................25
6.3.2 Fuel Filter...............................................................................................................25
6.3.3 Oil Filter..................................................................................................................26
6.4 LUBRICATION INFORMATION ......................................................................................26
6.4.1 General...................................................................................................................26
6.4.2 Clutch Lubrication.................................................................................................26
6.4.3 Drive Chain Lubrication.........................................................................................26
6.4.4 Automatic Chain Oiler System..............................................................................26
6.4.5 Outer Axle Bearing Lubrication ............................................................................27
6.4.6 Idler Shaft Outer Bearing Lubrication .................................................................27
6.4.7 Output Shaft Coupler Lubrication .........................................................................28
6.4.8 Inner Axle Bearing Lubrication..............................................................................28
7.0 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
7.1 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ......................................................................................................29
7.1.1 GENERAL.............................................................................................................29
7.1.2 AGM BATTERY ...................................................................................................29
Activating & Charging the Battery.........................................................................29
Cleaning the Battery Terminals and Cable Connections ........................................31
Cleaning the Battery ...............................................................................................31
7.1.3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FUSES ..........................................................................31
7.1.4 SPARK PLUGS ......................................................................................................31
7.1.5 SPARK ARRESTER...............................................................................................31
7.2 DRIVE SYSTEM & TIRES..................................................................................................32
7.2.1 DRIVE BELT..........................................................................................................32
Drive Belt Adjustment............................................................................................32
Drive Belt Removal ................................................................................................33
Drive Belt Installation.............................................................................................33
7.2.2 CLUTCH MAINTENANCE..................................................................................33
Clutch Inspection....................................................................................................33
IV
TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS
7.2.3 DRIVE CHAINS ....................................................................................................34
Drive Chain Removal............................................................................................. 34
Drive Chain Installation..........................................................................................34
7.2.4 DRIVE CHAIN TAKE-UP SYSTEM ....................................................................35
Replacement of Slider Blocks ................................................................................35
7.2.5 TIRE INFLATION..................................................................................................36
7.2.6 TIRE REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT.................................................................37
7.2.7 AXLE BEARING MOUNTING ............................................................................38
7.3 HYDRAULIC BRAKES ......................................................................................................38
7.3.1 GENERAL..............................................................................................................38
7.3.2 BRAKE FLUID LEVEL ........................................................................................38
7.3.3 CHANGING BRAKE FLUID................................................................................39
7.3.4 HYDRAULIC BRAKE PAD INSPECTION .........................................................39
Firewall Removal....................................................................................................39
Brake Pad Inspection Procedure.............................................................................39
Re-installation of Brake Pads .................................................................................39
7.3.5 HANDBRAKE INSPECTION...............................................................................40
Brake Pad Inspection Procedure.............................................................................40
Re-installation of Firewall ......................................................................................41
Service Brake Bedding in Procedure......................................................................41
7.3.6 EMERGENCY/PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTMENT ...........................................42
7.3.7 BRAKE PLUNGER ADJUSTMENT ....................................................................42
7.3.8 BRAKE COOLING SYSTEM...............................................................................42
7.3.9 ENGINE COOLING & EXHAUST SYSTEM......................................................42
7.4 DAILY CHECKLIST ............................................................................................................44
20/20 Service Chart ................................................................................................44
100/20 Service Chart ..............................................................................................45
7.5 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE............................................................................................46
8.0 TROUBLESHOOTING...........................................................................................................................47
9.0 CLEANING AND STORAGE
9.1 CLEANING THE VEHICLE................................................................................................49
9.2 STORING THE VEHICLE ...................................................................................................49
Cleaning the Vehicle..............................................................................................................49
Drain the Fuel System ...........................................................................................................49
Prepare the Battery for Storage .............................................................................................49
Protect the Electrical System.................................................................................................49
Raise the Vehicle ..................................................................................................................49
Preparing the Engine for Storage ..........................................................................................49
10.0 POTENTIAL HAZARDS ..................................................................................................................50
V
SECTION PAGE

SECTION PAGE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
11.0 ACCESSORY INFORMATION
11.1 GENERAL ...........................................................................................................................54
11.2 CARGO TIE-DOWNS (Part No. 614-06) ...........................................................................54
11.3 ARGO TRACK SYSTEMS (Standard Track and Super Track)..........................................54
11.4 RUBBER TRACK INSTALLATION ..................................................................................55
11.4.1 Removal Rubber Track System .............................................................................56
11.5 Operating Precautions (Track System).................................................................................56
11.6 ICE CLEAT KIT .................................................................................................................56
11.7 OUTBOARD MOTOR BRACKET - SIDE MOUNT ........................................................57
11.8 ARGO STORAGE COVERS .............................................................................................57
11.9 POWER WINCH ................................................................................................................57
11.9.1 Rules for Safe Operation .......................................................................................57
11.9.2 Tips for Extending the Life of Your Winch ...........................................................58
11.10 REAR MUD FLAP ACCESSORY ......................................................................................59
11.11 BILGE PUMP ACCESSORY .............................................................................................59
11.12 HANDRAIL ACCESSORY ................................................................................................59
11.13 TOW HOOK ACCESSORY ...............................................................................................59
11.14 WINDSHIELD .................................................................................................................59
11.15 CONVERTIBLE TOP .........................................................................................................60
11.16 ALTERNATOR ACCESSORY for Avenger .......................................................................60
11.17 SNOW PLOW ACCESSORY .............................................................................................60
11.18 AMPHIBIOUS TRAILER (4-Wheel & 8-Wheel)................................................................61
11.18.1 Operating Precautions............................................................................................61
11.19 HEATER ACCESSORY.......................................................................................................62
11.20 ROLL OVER PROTECTIVE STRUCTURES ...................................................................62
11.21 BRUSHGUARD KIT ..........................................................................................................62
WARRANTY POLICY........................................................................................................64
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 Operation.
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 (Section
7.5). By following this schedule, you will receive trouble
free, long term service from your vehicle.
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eectofthewindmakesitfeelthatit’scolderthan
itreallyis.Thiscombinedeect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 LEGEND FOR OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Belowaresomeiconsyouwillndthroughoutthismanual.
These icons will indicate that the information is relevant only
for vehicles with that feature.

2
SECTION 1
GENERAL INFORMATION
Vehicle Transmission
Option
Engine
Type
H.P.
Aurora 800 8x8
30HP
Aurora 800 Huntmaster
30hp
Aurora 800 SX 8x8
30HP
Aurora 800 Limited 8x8
30HP
Aurora 950 SX 8x8
40HP
ADM
ADM
ADM
ADM
ADM
Argo produces and manufactures several Aurora Models. They are listed in the table below with
their corresponding transmission, engine type and horse power.