🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Arctic Cat

Model:

Powder Special

Model Variants:

500 EFI, 500 EFI LE, 600, 600 LE, 600 EFI, 600 EFI LE, 700, 700 LE

Model Years Covered:

1999, 2000

Vehicle Type:

Snowmobile

👋 Introduction

Market Niche:

Performance-oriented trail and mountain snowmobiles, focusing on power and agility for off-trail riding.

Key Competitors:

Ski-Doo Summit/Formula series, Polaris RMK/XCR series, Yamaha Mountain Max/Venture series during the late 1990s.

Performance Focus:

Designed for deep snow capability, strong power-to-weight ratio, and responsive handling.

User Benefit:

Empowers owners to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs associated with dealership service.

Accessibility:

Instant download and multi-device compatibility (PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone) enhance usability.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Scope:

Complete Workshop Service Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed, comprehensive (exact count not specified, but implies thoroughness)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF compatible)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Fuel Injection (EFI), Ignition, Lubrication, Cooling, Starting, Exhaust

Drivetrain Systems:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) operation and maintenance, Drive clutch, Driven clutch, Chaincase, Track system

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (e.g., AWS - Arctic Wheel System), Rear suspension (e.g., M-10, coupled rear suspension), Steering system components, Ski and runner maintenance

Braking Systems:

Hydraulic disc brake system, Brake caliper, Master cylinder, Brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures

Electrical Systems:

Battery, Charging system (stator, voltage regulator), Lighting, Ignition switch, EFI control unit (ECU) diagnostics, Wiring diagrams

Bodywork Chassis:

Hood, Seat, Handlebars, Footboards, Chassis structural components, Decal application and replacement

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug inspection and replacement, Belt inspection and replacement, Chain tension adjustment, Lubrication points

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul (top-end and bottom-end), Transmission component repair, Suspension linkage rebuilding, Steering linkage repair, Brake system overhaul, Electrical component troubleshooting and replacement

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting common starting issues, Performance problems, Electrical faults, EFI system diagnostics (including error codes if applicable)

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications for critical fasteners, Engine bore and stroke, Compression test procedures and specifications, Carburetor (if applicable to non-EFI variants) settings and adjustments

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and system overhauls

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High quality, designed for clear reproduction of text and images

Binding Type:

N/A (Downloadable Digital File)

Paper Type:

N/A (Downloadable Digital File)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 500:

Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, twin-cylinder

Displacement 500:

Approximately 498cc (specific bore/stroke varies slightly by year/sub-model)

Fuel System 500:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Type 600:

Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, twin-cylinder

Displacement 600:

Approximately 598cc (specific bore/stroke varies slightly by year/sub-model)

Fuel System 600:

Carbureted (for non-EFI models), Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for EFI and LE EFI variants

Engine Type 700:

Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, twin-cylinder

Displacement 700:

Approximately 698cc (specific bore/stroke varies slightly by year/sub-model)

Fuel System 700:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for EFI and LE EFI variants, Carbureted for base 700 model (if applicable)

Horsepower Range:

Estimated 90-120 HP (depending on engine displacement and tuning)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Clutch System:

Arctic Cat ACT (Arctic Cat Drive and Driven Clutch) or similar OEM CVT system

Optional Features:

Varies by model, typically focused on gear ratios or clutching for different riding styles.

Chaincase Fluid:

Specific SAE 80W-90 gear oil (refer to manual for exact capacity and part number)

📐 Dimensions

Track Length Common:

136 inches (typical for Powder Special models)

Track Width Common:

15 inches (typical)

Dry Weight Estimate:

450-500 lbs (highly dependent on specific model and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

Braking System:

Hydraulic disc brake with caliper and vented rotor

Throttle Safety:

Thumb throttle with safety switch/interlock

Windscreen:

Adjustable or fixed windscreen for rider protection

💡 Technology Features

Gauge Cluster:

Digital and analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, coolant temperature, and diagnostic indicators.

Reverse Gear:

Manual or electronic reverse assist (depending on specific model configuration).

Diagnostic Port:

Likely includes a diagnostic port for EFI system access and troubleshooting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Refer to manual; typically based on mileage or operating hours (e.g., every 100-200 hours or annually)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual; typically inspected annually and replaced as needed based on condition.

Clutch Belt Inspection:

Frequent inspection recommended, especially before heavy use; replacement based on wear and damage.

Engine Oil 2Stroke:

Specific 2-stroke synthetic blend oil meeting Arctic Cat's API TC or JASO FD specifications (refer to manual for exact recommendation, e.g., Arctic Cat APV Synthetic Injection Oil).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or equivalent) mixed with distilled water (typically 50/50 ratio).

Efi System Maintenance:

Potential for clogged injectors or fuel filters; requires periodic cleaning or replacement.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings and bearings in the suspension and steering can wear over time, especially with aggressive riding.

Track And Suspension Alignment:

Improper alignment can lead to excessive track wear and poor handling.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Origin:

Arctic Cat, Inc. (originally Arctic Cat Snowmobiles, founded in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, USA)

Powder Special Lineage:

The Powder Special line was developed to compete in the growing 'mountain' or 'deep snow' segment, offering enhanced flotation and climbing ability.

Production Period:

Late 1990s, representing a significant era for Arctic Cat's performance snowmobile development.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acclaim:

While specific awards for these exact models are not detailed in the product info, Arctic Cat snowmobiles of this era were generally recognized for their performance and innovative features in the powersports industry.