Argo Frontier 650 8x8 2021 User manual

OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
MANUAL NO. 100-0103 2021-04
Do not remove this
manual from this vehicle.
Frontier 650 8x8
Frontier 700 8x8
Frontier 600 6x6
Frontier 700 6x6
Frontier 700 Scout 6x6
Frontier 650 8x8 i
Frontier 700 8x8 Scout
Frontier 750 8x8 Scout
Frontier 750 8x8
Frontier 600 6x6 i

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 000-00FR
© 2020 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

III
PREFACE
This manual describes the controls, operation and basic maintenance procedures for all FRONTIER & MX 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
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
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. TREAD LIGHTLY.
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 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.
• 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. 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
AMPHIBIOUS TRAILERS (WEIGHTS/CAPACITY) .................................................... 2
1.4.1 Argo Vehicle Capacity............................................................................................... 2
1.4.2 Amphibious Trailer Capacity .................................................................................... 2
1.5 REAR SIDE SEATS - 8 WHEEL MODELS..................................................................... 2
1.6 REAR BENCH SEAT - 8 WHEEL MODELS .................................................................. 2
1.7 FRONTIER VEHICLE MATRIX ..................................................................................... 4
1.7 FRONTIER VEHICLE MATRIX...................................................................................... 5
1.7 FRONTIER VEHICLE MATRIX...................................................................................... 6
1.8 IDENTIFICATION AND LOCATION OF CONTROLS.................................................. 7
1.9 INFORMATION LABELS - 8X8 VEHICLES.................................................................. 9
1-9 INFORMATION LABELS - 6X6 VEHICLES.................................................................. 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 .............................................................................................. 15
3.2 EMERGENCY/PARKING BRAKE SYSTEM ................................................................ 15
3.3 THROTTLE CONTROL ................................................................................................... 15
3.4 STARTING PROCEDURE................................................................................................ 15
3.5 PRIMING PROCEDURE.................................................................................................. 16
3.6 STOPPING THE ENGINE ................................................................................................ 16
3.7 SELECTING AND CHANGING TRANSMISSION GEARS ......................................... 16
3.7.1 Changing Transmission Gears ............................................................................. 17
3.7.2 Gear Range Recommendations............................................................................ 17
3.8 HEADLIGHTS ............................................................................................................... 17
4.0 DRIVING PROCEDURES
4.1 DRIVING STRAIGHT AHEAD ....................................................................................... 18
4.2 STOPPING THE VEHICLE.............................................................................................. 18
4.3 TURNING THE VEHICLE............................................................................................... 18
4.3.1 Left Turn.............. ................................................................................................ 18
4.3.2 Right Turn............................................................................................................ 18
4.4 BACKING THE VEHICLE UP......................................................................................... 18
4.4.1 Turning the vehicle while backing up.................................................................. 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
IV
SECTION
PAGE

SECTION PAGE
5.6.2 Driving Procedures in Water.................................................................................21
5.6.3 Driving Out of Water ............................................................................................22
5.6.4 Outboard Motor Bracket............................................................................. ..........22
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 ........................................................................... 25
6.2.3 Relling the Transmission....................................................................................25
6.3 FILTER INFORMATION...................................................................................................25
6.3.1 Air Filter - Kohler/ Briggs ....................................................................................25
6.3.2 Fuel Filter - Kohler ...............................................................................................26
6.3.3 Fuel Filter - Briggs................................................................................................26
6.3.4 Oil Filter - Kohler/Briggs .....................................................................................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.............................................................................27
6.4.5 Idler Chain Lubrication.........................................................................................27
6.4.6 Outer Axle Bearing Lubrication ...........................................................................28
6.4.7 Idler Shaft Bearing Lubrication ..........................................................................28
6.4.8 Inner Axle Bearing Lubrication............................................................................29
7.0 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
7.1 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ....................................................................................................30
7.1.1 GENERAL............................................................................................................30
7.1.2 BATTERY.............................................................................................................30
Activating And Charging AGM Batteries.............................................................32
Cleaning the Battery Terminals and Cable Connections ......................................32
Cleaning the Battery .............................................................................................32
7.1.3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FUSES ........................................................................32
7.1.4 SPARK PLUGS ....................................................................................................32
7.1.5 SPARK ARRESTER.............................................................................................32
7.2 DRIVE SYSTEM & TIRES................................................................................................33
7.2.1 DRIVE BELT........................................................................................................33
Drive Belt Adjustment..........................................................................................33
Drive Belt Removal ..............................................................................................34
Drive Belt Installation...........................................................................................34
7.2.2 CLUTCH MAINTENANCE................................................................................34
Clutch Inspection ..................................................................................................34
V
TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS
7.2.3 DRIVE CHAINS.................................................................................................................35
Drive Chain Removal ...........................................................................................35
Drive Chain Installation........................................................................................35
7.2.4 DRIVE CHAIN TAKE-UP SYSTEM ..................................................................36
Replacement of Slider Blocks ..............................................................................36
7.2.5 IDLER CHAIN.....................................................................................................37
Idler Chain Adjustment.........................................................................................37
Removal of Idler Chains.......................................................................................38
Installation of Idler Chains ...................................................................................38
7.2.6 TIRE INFLATION................................................................................................38
7.2.7 TIRE REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT...............................................................39
7.2.8 AXLE BEARING MOUNTING ..........................................................................40
7.3 HYDRAULIC BRAKES ....................................................................................................41
7.3.1 GENERAL............................................................................................................41
7.3.2 BRAKE FLUID LEVEL ......................................................................................41
7.3.3 CHANGING BRAKE FLUID..............................................................................41
7.3.4 HYDRAULIC BRAKE PAD INSPECTION .......................................................41
Firewall Removal..................................................................................................41
Brake Pad Inspection Procedure...........................................................................41
Re-installation of Brake Pads ...............................................................................42
Re-installation of Firewall ....................................................................................42
7.3.5 EMERGENCY/PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTMENT .........................................42
7.3.6 BRAKE PLUNGER ADJUSTMENT ..................................................................43
7.3.7 BRAKE COOLING SYSTEM.............................................................................43
7.3.8 ENGINE COOLING & EXHAUST SYSTEM....................................................43
7.4 DAILY CHECKLIST ..........................................................................................................43
7.5 20/20 SERVICE CHART ....................................................................................................44
100/20 SERVICE CHART ..................................................................................................44
7.6 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE..........................................................................................45
8.0 TROUBLESHOOTING .........................................................................................................................46
9.0 CLEANING AND STORAGE
9.1 CLEANING THE VEHICLE..............................................................................................48
9.2 STORING THE VEHICLE .................................................................................................48
Cleaning the Vehicle............................................................................................................48
Drain the Fuel System .........................................................................................................48
Prepare the Battery for Storage ...........................................................................................48
Protect the Electrical System...............................................................................................48
Raise the Vehicle ................................................................................................................48
Preparing the Engine for Storage ........................................................................................48
10.0 POTENTIAL HAZARDS ................................................................................................................49
VI
SECTION PAGE

SECTION PAGE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
11.0 ACCESSORY INFORMATION
11.1 GENERAL .........................................................................................................................53
11.2 CARGO TIE-DOWNS........................................................................................................53
11.3 ARGO TRACK SYSTEMS ............................................................................................... 53
11.3.1 Track Installation Preparation................................................................................... 53
11.3.2 Installation Rubber Track System ............................................................................ 54
11.3.3 Removal Argo Rubber Track System....................................................................... 55
11.3.4 Operating Precautions (track systems) ..................................................................... 55
11.4 ICE CLEAT KIT ................................................................................................................56
11.5 OUTBOARD MOTOR BRACKET ...................................................................................56
11.6 ARGO STORAGE COVERS .............................................................................................56
11.7 POWER WINCH ...............................................................................................................56
11.7.1 Rules for Safe Operation ......................................................................................57
11.7.2 Tips for Extending the Life of Your Winch ..........................................................58
11.8 REAR MUD FLAP ACCESSORY .....................................................................................59
11.9 HANDRAIL ACCESSORY................................................................................................59
11.10 TOW HOOK ACCESSORY ...............................................................................................59
11.11 WINDSHIELD (Part No. 648-79 & 648-80)......................................................................59
11.12 CONVERTIBLE TOP.........................................................................................................60
11.13 SNOW PLOW ACCESSORY.............................................................................................60
11.14 AMPHIBIOUS TRAILER (4-Wheel & 8-Wheel)..............................................................60
11.14.1 Operating Precautions...........................................................................................61
11.15 REAR BENCH SEAT .........................................................................................................61
11.16 BRUSHGUARD KIT .........................................................................................................61
WARRANTY POLICY.......................................................................................................64
VII

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.

2
SECTION 1
GENERAL INFORMATION
1.5 REAR SIDE SEATS - 8 WHEEL MODELS
Some Frontier 8X8 modelsarettedwith“quick-release”
side rear seats.
Removal
1. Grasp the inner edge of the rear seat at both ends.
2. Lift the inner edge of the rear seat upwards until both plastic
bumpers are clear of the upper body.
3. Using an upward motion, pull the seat toward the centre
of the rear compartment.
4. Remove the seat.
Installation
1. Place the rear seat over the seat mounting holes in the upper
body. Insert the large seat washers through the holes.
2. Using downward pressure, slide the seat towards the out-
side of the vehicle to lock it in place.
1.6 REAR BENCH SEATS - 8 WHEEL MODELS
SomeFrontier8X8 modelsmaybe ttedwitha “quick-
release” rear bench seat.
Removal
1. Standing at the rear of the bench seat, pull back on the
left and right side release pins allowing the seat to pop up.
Figure 1-5 & 1-6
2. Tilt the seat forward slightly.
3. Lift up and out of the vehicle.
Installation
1. With the rear bench seat tilted forward, align and attach
thefrontseatpinsrsttothelowerbenchseatframe.
2. Lower the back end of the seat. Click and lock pins into
slots at the rear of the seat bracket securely.
Figure 1-5 Pull back latch (left & right side of seat)
1.4.1 Argo Vehicle Capacity
Vehicle capacity includes occupants, cargo, fuel, and
all additional accessories. Capacity for occupants and
cargo is reduced by the weight of accessories as shown
in the following chart.
Some models come with accessories included. Available vehi-
cle capacity must be reduced if your vehicle is equipped with
any additional accessories. Reduce the available capacity by
thetotalweightofadditionalaccessoriesttedtoyourvehicle.
Reduce By
Accessory On On
On Vehicle Land Water
Regular Tracks 6x6 135 lbs. (60 kg) 85 lbs. (40 kg)
Regular Tracks 8x8 175 (80) 110 (50)
Supertracks 6x6 145 (65) 90 (40)
Supertracks 8x8 210 (95) 135 (60)
Rubber Track 8x8 295 (135) 175 (80)
Rubber Track 6x6 230 (105) 150 (68)
Winch Kit 50 (23) 50 (23)
Brush Guard 11 (5) 11 (5)
Windshield 33 (15) 33 (15)
Full Top 8x8 27 (12) 27 (12)
Full Top 6x6 22 (10) 22 (10)
Snow Plow 190 (85) SEE WARNING
Rear Bench Seat 34 (15) 34 (15)
Do NOT use an Argo on water when equipped with a
snow plow. Do NOT use an Argo 6x6 in water when
equipped with a ROPS. The increased weight of the
snow plow out front or the top-heavy weight of the ROPS
on the 6x6 will make the Argo unstable and could cause
the vehicle to capsize, causing injury or drowning to the
driver and passengers.
1.4.2 Amphibious Trailer Capacity
4 Wheel Trailer
Load Capacity: 270 kg (600 lbs.)
Trailer Weight: 183 kg (404 lbs.)
4 Wheel V-Trailer
Load Capacity: 270 kg (600 lbs.)
Trailer Weight: (25" Tires) 147 kg (324 lbs.)
8 Wheel Trailer
Load Capacity: 590 kg (1300 lbs.)
Trailer Weight: 322 kg (710 lbs.)
Gross Vehicle Rating: 907 kg (2000 lbs.) on land
817 kg (1800 lbs.) on water
* Load capacity equals gross weight rating minus the weight of the trailer
and accessories.