Basic Information Identification Make: Arctic Cat Model: ATV 500 Automatic Transmission 4X4 FIS ORANGE LE Year: 2008 Product Type: Parts Manual Trim: ORANGE LE Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Mid-size utility ATV, designed for recreational and light-duty work applications. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 2008: Polaris Sportsman 500, Can-Am Outlander 500, Yamaha Grizzly 550, Kawasaki Brute Force 500 Key Features Key Features Vehicle: 4x4 Drivetrain, Automatic Transmission, FIS (Full Independent Suspension), Durable Chassis, Moderate Power Output for its class. Key Features Manual: Comprehensive part identification, detailed diagrams, essential for maintenance and repair planning. Manual Details Coverage Areas Systems Covered: Engine, Drivetrain, Transmission, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical, Body, Frame, Fuel System, Cooling System, Steering, Wheels, Tires Page Count Estimated Page Count: Refer to manual for specific page count, but typically extensive for a full parts manual covering all components. Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Full Parts Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Accessibility Features Accessibility Features: Instant Download, Printable, Zoomable, Searchable Text Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Components: Cam Chain, Crank Balancer, Crankshaft, Piston, Cylinder, Cylinder Head, Camshaft, Valves, Magneto, Oil Filter, Oil Pump, Starter Motor, Throttle Body, Water Pump Transmission Drivetrain: Automatic Transmission, Clutch, V-Belt, Magneto Cover, Drive Train, Gear Shifting, Secondary Drive, Secondary Transmission, Shifter, Starter Clutch, Transmission Chassis Suspension Brakes: Frame, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Front Brake, Rear Brake, Parking Brake, Sway Bar, Wheel, Tire Electrical Systems: Battery, Wiring Harness Body And Accessories: Air Intake, Canopy, Taillight, Cargo Box, Tailgate, Console, Floor Panel, Dash, Gas Tank, Hood, Headlight, Tilt Frame, Seat Procedures Included Repair Procedures: Overhaul, Disassembly and Assembly of all covered components. Maintenance Procedures: Parts identification for routine maintenance and replacement. Technical Depth Technical Depth: Detailed illustrations and exploded views for precise part identification and order. Supports comprehensive rebuilds and repairs. Part Identification: Critical for accurate ordering of replacement parts, OEM and aftermarket compatibility verification. Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Print Quality Print Quality: High resolution for clarity of illustrations and text, suitable for printing. Binding Type Binding Type: Digital (PDF), no physical binding. Paper Type Paper Type: Not applicable (digital format). Software Requirements Software Requirements: Adobe Reader, Foxit Reader, or any compatible PDF reader. Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: 4-Stroke, Single Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled Displacement: Approximately 493cc (exact specification may vary, refer to specific sub-model or VIN documentation). Bore X Stroke: Typically around 92.0 mm x 92.0 mm (confirmation required from specific Arctic Cat documentation). Performance Horsepower Estimated: Approximately 30-35 HP (power figures for ATVs of this era varied, exact specification not provided in product info). Torque Estimated: Refer to service manual for precise torque figures. Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Fuel Injection (FIS often implies FI, but confirm with VIN). Ignition Ignition System: CDI Cooling System Cooling Type: Liquid Cooled Lubrication Lubrication System: Wet Sump Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Automatic (CVT - Continuously Variable Transmission) Drive Modes: 2WD/4WD with Differential Lock (FIS implies independent 4WD system capabilities) Features Cvtech Clutch: Likely equipped with a CVTech drive and driven clutch system, common for Arctic Cat models of this era. Gear Reduction: Includes High, Low, Neutral, and Reverse gears. Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 83 in. (210.8 cm) Width: Approx. 46 in. (116.8 cm) Height: Approx. 48 in. (121.9 cm) Weights Dry Weight: Approx. 650 lbs (295 kg) Ground Clearance: Approx. 10.5 in. (26.7 cm) Cargo Front Rack Capacity: Typically around 100 lbs (45 kg) Rear Rack Capacity: Typically around 200 lbs (90 kg) Towing Towing Capacity: Often rated for 1,050 lbs (476 kg) with proper hitch and accessories. Wheels Tires Front Tire Size: 25x8-12 (e.g., 25 inches diameter, 8 inches width, 12-inch rim) Rear Tire Size: 25x10-12 (e.g., 25 inches diameter, 10 inches width, 12-inch rim) Wheel Bolt Pattern: Standard 4x110mm (confirmation advised by VIN) Safety Features Ratings Atv Safety Standards: Compliant with ANSI and ATV Safety Institute guidelines for its model year. Active Features Braking System: Hydraulic Disc Brakes (Front and Rear) Parking Brake: Hand-lever or thumb-lever actuated, often integrated with rear brake caliper. Passive Features Hand Guards: Often standard or optional to protect hands from brush and debris. Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Basic instrumentation: speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, 4WD indicator, engine temp warning light. No advanced infotainment systems. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: No electronic driver assistance features like ABS or traction control on this base model. Focus is on mechanical capability. Lighting Headlight System: Dual Halogen headlights, often mounted on the handlebars and/or frame. Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 100 hours or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact recommendation. Air Filter Cleaning: Inspect and clean every 50 hours or semi-annually. Replace as needed. Spark Plug Replacement: Recommended replacement every 1,000 hours or as per manual's schedule. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil recommended. Engine Oil Capacity: Refer to manual,...
No electronic driver assistance features like ABS or traction control on this base model. Focus is on mechanical capability.
Lighting
Headlight System:
Dual Halogen headlights, often mounted on the handlebars and/or frame.
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 100 hours or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact recommendation.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Inspect and clean every 50 hours or semi-annually. Replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended replacement every 1,000 hours or as per manual's schedule.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual, typically around 2.3 US quarts (2.2 liters).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific Arctic Cat recommended CVT fluid or equivalent high-quality synthetic transmission fluid (refer to manual for exact specification and part number).
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
CVT belt wear, suspension bushings, wheel bearings, brake pads are common wear items on ATVs of this vintage.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or looseness in electrical connectors can be an issue, especially in wet or muddy environments. Regular inspection is recommended.
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Arctic Cat Atv History:
Arctic Cat has a long history in powersports, known for snowmobiles and later expanding into ATVs and UTVs with a focus on utility and off-road performance.
Model Evolution
Atv 500 Lineage:
The Arctic Cat 500cc class ATVs have been a core offering, evolving through various engine and chassis updates over the years, consistently emphasizing 4x4 capability and independent suspension.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, USA by Arctic Cat.
Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Atv Industry Awards:
While specific awards for the 2008 500 LE are not readily cited, Arctic Cat ATVs are generally recognized for their ruggedness and off-road performance in their respective market segments.