๐ท๏ธ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Arctic Cat
Year:
1978
๐ Introduction
Market Position
Positioning:
Essential resource for owners and technicians maintaining 1978 Arctic Cat snowmobiles, offering professional-grade repair and maintenance guidance.
Key Features
Features:
Instant download, lifetime protection policy, comprehensive system coverage, detailed troubleshooting.
๐ Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Models Covered:
Cheetah 5000, El Tigre 5000, El Tigre 6000, Jaguar 2000, Jaguar 3000, Lynx 2000S, Lynx 2000T, Pantera 5000 F/A, Pantera 5000 F/C, Panther 4000, Panther 5000
Manual Type
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format
File Format:
PDF (Downloadable)
๐ Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
Engine Removal and Installation, Engine Specifications, Intake & Exhaust, Fuel System, Lubrication and Cooling System
Drivetrain:
Transmission, Drive Chain & Sprockets
Suspension Steering:
Steering System, Shocks
Electrical:
Electrical System
Body Chassis:
Body Work
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Routine Maintenance, General Information
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Advanced Troubleshooting
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering repair, service, and maintenance
๐ Manual Specifications
File Quality
Quality:
High-quality, printable pages
File Organization
Organization:
Plain, simple, easy-to-use PDF (no zip files)
Language
Language:
English
Binding Type
Type:
Digital Download (PDF)
Paper Type
Type:
Not Applicable (Digital)
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Types Expected:
Likely 2-stroke, fan-cooled twin-cylinder engines. Specific displacements (e.g., 436cc, 496cc, 500cc, 600cc class) will vary by model. Expect reed-valve induction.
Performance
Horsepower Range:
Estimated 40-70 HP, depending on model and specific engine configuration.
Fuel System
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni VM or equivalent carburetors are highly probable for this era and engine type.
Lubrication Cooling
Lubrication System:
Premix oil/gas mixture, or potentially an oil injection system depending on the specific model and engine variant.
Engine Features
Ignition System:
Magneto ignition with breaker points or early electronic CDI systems are likely.
๐ง Transmission
Standard
Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) utilizing a drive clutch and driven clutch system. Likely a Comet or Arctic Cat proprietary system.
Features
Drive Mechanism:
Chain drive to the track from the driven clutch/jackshaft assembly.
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Chassis Type:
Likely tube frame or stamped steel chassis construction for these models.
Weights
Dry Weight Estimate:
Approximately 350-450 lbs (159-204 kg), depending on the specific model and engine size.
Track Dimensions
Track Width And Length:
Track widths typically ranged from 15 to 20 inches, with lengths around 120 to 151 inches. Specifics would be model-dependent.
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Active Features
Safety Features Common:
Engine kill switch, throttle safety lever, brake system (likely disc or drum).
Passive Features
Design Considerations:
Reflective elements, protective shrouding for moving parts.
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Features:
Basic instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer, engine temperature warning light, oil level light (if applicable).
Driver Assistance
Features:
No electronic driver assistance features. Focus is on mechanical function and driver control.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Tune Up Frequency:
Recommended annual tune-up, with spark plug, belt, and chain inspections as needed. Carburetor cleaning and adjustment as required based on performance.
Fluid Specifications
Clutch Grease:
Specific high-temperature, low-viscosity grease for clutch components. Manual will specify type and grade.
2 Stroke Oil:
High-quality 2-stroke snowmobile oil, often a TCW-3 or equivalent synthetic blend. Manual will provide specific API/NMMA rating.
Chaincase Oil:
Dedicated chaincase lubricant or a suitable gear oil, such as SAE 80W-90. Manual will provide specific API GL rating.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Drive belts, primary and secondary clutch weights and springs, carbides, hyfax, track tensioners, and ignition components (points, condensers, coils).
Common Issues Specific
Engine Carburetion Issues:
Carburetor gumming due to fuel sitting, jetting issues affecting performance, and intake boot cracks.
Clutch Issues:
Wear on clutch faces, worn or broken springs, and sticking weights can cause poor acceleration and belt slippage.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Arctic Cat is a long-standing American snowmobile manufacturer with a history of innovation and performance in the snowmobile industry.
Model Evolution
Development Context:
The 1978 models represent a period of refinement and performance enhancements for Arctic Cat, building on successful platforms like the El Tigre and Pantera.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Likely manufactured in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, USA.
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Performance:
Arctic Cat models from this era were known for their performance and handling in competitive snowmobiling events.
No electronic driver assistance features. Focus is on mechanical function and driver control.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Tune Up Frequency:
Recommended annual tune-up, with spark plug, belt, and chain inspections as needed. Carburetor cleaning and adjustment as required based on performance.
Fluid Specifications
Clutch Grease:
Specific high-temperature, low-viscosity grease for clutch components. Manual will specify type and grade.
2 Stroke Oil:
High-quality 2-stroke snowmobile oil, often a TCW-3 or equivalent synthetic blend. Manual will provide specific API/NMMA rating.
Chaincase Oil:
Dedicated chaincase lubricant or a suitable gear oil, such as SAE 80W-90. Manual will provide specific API GL rating.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Drive belts, primary and secondary clutch weights and springs, carbides, hyfax, track tensioners, and ignition components (points, condensers, coils).
Common Issues Specific
Engine Carburetion Issues:
Carburetor gumming due to fuel sitting, jetting issues affecting performance, and intake boot cracks.
Clutch Issues:
Wear on clutch faces, worn or broken springs, and sticking weights can cause poor acceleration and belt slippage.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Arctic Cat is a long-standing American snowmobile manufacturer with a history of innovation and performance in the snowmobile industry.
Model Evolution
Development Context:
The 1978 models represent a period of refinement and performance enhancements for Arctic Cat, building on successful platforms like the El Tigre and Pantera.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Likely manufactured in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, USA.
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Performance:
Arctic Cat models from this era were known for their performance and handling in competitive snowmobiling events.