EasyManua.ls Logo

Arctic Cat 450 i User Manual

Arctic Cat 450 i
88 pages
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
Page #1 background imageLoading...
Page #1 background image
450 i
450 i
550 i
550 i
700 i
700 i
700 i Mud Pro
700 i Mud Pro
700 i TBX
700 i TBX
1000 i
1000 i
1000 i Mud Pro
1000 i Mud Pro
ATV
ATV
SHARE OUR PASSION.
TM
2012
Operator’s Manual
Do not remove this Operators Manual from this ATV
according to the guidelines and agreement with the U.S.
Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Read this manual carefully.
It contains important safety information.
UNDER
16
!
WARNING
Operating this ATV if you are under
the age of 16 increases your chance
of severe injury or death.
NEVER operate this ATV if you are
under 16.

Table of Contents

Question and Answer IconNeed help?

Do you have a question about the Arctic Cat 450 i and is the answer not in the manual?

Arctic Cat 450 i Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandArctic Cat
Model450 i
CategoryOffroad Vehicle
LanguageEnglish

Summary

2012 Arctic Cat ATV Operator's Manual

ATV Safety Overview and Hazards

General ATV Operation Hazards

Highlights the inherent dangers of operating an ATV and the need for precautions.

Safety Alert Symbol Definitions

Explains the meaning of the Safety Alert Symbol, WARNING, CAUTION, and NOTE.

California Proposition 65 Warning

Warns about chemicals known to cause cancer and birth defects.

Foreword and Introduction

Protect Your Sport Guidelines

Emphasizes responsible riding, respecting laws, environment, and ATV.

Parts and Accessories Information

Guidance on using genuine parts and availability of accessory catalogs.

Limited Warranty Details

Warranty Coverage Periods

Outlines the duration of warranty for recreational and commercial use.

Warranty Exclusions and Voiding Conditions

Lists parts excluded and actions that will void the warranty.

Arctic Cat ATV Emission Control Warranty

Emission Control System Warranty Rights

Explains rights and obligations regarding the ATV's emission control system.

Owner's Emission Control Warranty Responsibilities

Details owner's duties for maintaining emission control system.

U.S. EPA Emission Control Warranty

Covered Emission Control Components

Lists engine management, fuel/air system, and miscellaneous emission parts.

Owner's Emission Control Responsibilities

Owner's role in maintaining the ATV for emission compliance.

Declaration of Conformity

Division I: Safety - General ATV Operation Hazards

ATV Operation Hazards

Details dangers of operating ATVs, including terrain, speed, and obstacles.

ATV Safety Alert and Recommendations

ATV Safety Risks and Statistics

Highlights risks of ATV use, including fatalities and injuries.

Safe Riding Practices

Lists essential safety measures for ATV operation.

Rider Training Information

ATV Safety Information Resources

Provides contact information for ATV safety courses and resources.

Hangtag Safety Information

Hangtag Safety Warnings

Explains the critical safety warnings on the ATV's hangtag.

ATV Warning Labels and Information

Location and Importance of Warning Labels

Advises reading and understanding all safety labels on the ATV.

General Operating Warnings

Warning: Lack of Proper Instruction

Operating without proper training increases accident risk.

Warning: Underage Operation

Children under 16 may lack skills for safe ATV operation.

Warning: Carrying Passengers

Carrying a passenger affects balance and control, increasing risk.

Terrain and Riding Condition Warnings

Warning: Operating on Paved Surfaces

Paved surfaces affect ATV handling and control.

Warning: Protective Gear Requirements

Operating without helmet, eye protection, and clothing increases injury risk.

Operational and Maintenance Warnings

Warning: Alcohol or Drug Use

Operating under influence impairs judgment and reaction time.

Warning: Excessive Speed

Riding at excessive speeds increases the risk of losing control.

Warning: Failure to Inspect or Maintain ATV

Not inspecting or maintaining the ATV increases accident or damage risk.

Hill and Obstacle Operation Warnings

Warning: Unfamiliar Terrain Operation

Failure to use extra care on unfamiliar terrain can lead to loss of control.

Warning: Improper Hill Crossing or Turning

Improperly crossing or turning on hills can cause loss of control or overturn.

Turning and Climbing Warnings

Warning: Improper Turning Techniques

Improper turning can lead to collision or rollover.

Warning: Improper Hill Climbing

Climbing hills improperly can cause loss of control or overturn.

Hill Operation and Load Warnings

Warning: Steep Hill Operation

ATVs overturn more easily on steep hills than on level surfaces.

Warning: Stalling or Rolling Backwards on Hills

Stalling or rolling backward on hills can result in ATV overturning.

Warning: Overloading ATV or Improper Cargo

Overloading affects ATV handling, potentially leading to accidents.

Obstacle and Modification Warnings

Warning: Improper Obstacle Operation

Operating over obstacles improperly can cause loss of control or overturn.

Warning: Skidding or Sliding

Skidding or sliding can lead to loss of control and potential overturn.

Warning: Improper ATV Modifications

Modifications can change ATV handling, leading to accidents.

Warning: Improper Reverse Operation

Operating in reverse improperly can result in serious injury.

Road and Water Operation Warnings

Warning: Public Road Operation

Operating on public roads increases collision risk and may be illegal.

Warning: Improper Tires or Tire Pressure

Improper tires or pressure cause loss of control.

Warning: Deep or Fast Flowing Water

Operating in deep water can cause loss of traction and control.

Warning: Excessive Throttle Application

Excessive throttle can cause wheelies, flip-overs, or loss of control.

Differential Lock and Brake Lock Warnings

Warning: Operating with Differential Lock Engaged

Locked differential increases steering effort and reduces maneuverability.

Warning: Failure to Release Brake Lever Lock

Driving with brake lock engaged can cause loss of control or brakes.

Division I: Safety - Prevention Strategy

ATV Prevention Strategy Overview

Emphasizes prevention techniques like P.A.S.S. for safe riding.

Safe Riding Clothing and Gear

Details essential protective clothing for ATV riding.

Protective Gear: Helmets

Importance of DOT, Snell, or ANSI compliant helmets.

Protective Gear: Gloves

Protects hands from weather, objects, and improves grip.

Protective Gear: Boots and Ankle Protection

Recommends boots covering legs for impact protection and tread.

Prevention: Essential Gear Checks

Helmet Safety Standards

Lists required safety labels for helmets.

Eye Protection Requirements

Stresses use of goggles for eye protection, not sunglasses.

Protective Clothing: Pants and Shirt

Details the need for durable clothing for skin protection.

ATV Condition Checks (T-CLOC)

Introduces T-CLOC for pre-ride ATV condition checks.

Prevention: Pre-Ride Checks

Brake System Inspection

Checking hand brake, rear foot brake, and lever lock for proper function.

Throttle Operation Check

Ensuring throttle has free, smooth range of motion.

Lights and Electrical System Check

Verifying headlights, taillight, brakelight, and indicators.

Oil and Fuel Level Check

Ensuring full tank of gas and checking oil level and fluid leaks.

Chassis Inspection

Checking suspension, shocks, fenders, and steering.

Miscellaneous Item Checks

Inspecting air filter, battery, and tightening loose parts.

First Aid and Survival Kit Essentials

Lists minimum items for emergency preparedness on ATV rides.

Prevention: Essential Supplies

Tools for Emergency Repairs

Carrying essential tools to prevent inconveniences.

Importance of Carrying Water

Water is crucial for preventing heat exhaustion and dehydration.

Identification for Emergencies

Carrying ID for emergency personnel to identify the rider.

Communication Tools: Cellular Phone

Carrying a cell phone for urgent calls.

Navigation Tools: Maps/GPS

Using maps or GPS for navigation on unfamiliar trails.

Emergency Kit Contents

Recommends items like flashlight, matches, flares, and first aid kit.

Active Riding Techniques Overview

Understanding Body Weight and Balance

Explains how body weight affects ATV handling and stability.

Sound Judgment Principles

Self-Assessment: Risk Factor Survey

Survey to assess personal risk-taking behavior.

Environmental Considerations: Weather

Importance of considering weather conditions for safe riding.

Environmental Considerations: Terrain

Paying attention to terrain changes, even in familiar areas.

Sound Judgment: Terrain and Visibility

Night Riding Safety

Hazards of night riding and precautions for visibility and speed.

Paved Surface Operation Warning

ATVs are not designed for pavement; handling is difficult.

Trail Riding Safety Tips

Tips for riding trails, visibility, and stopping.

Understanding Trail Signs

Explains common symbols used for trail designation and restrictions.

Riding Companions and Space

Maintaining space from other riders and avoiding passengers.

Sound Judgment: External Factors

Awareness of Other Vehicles and Hikers

Being aware of others on trails and roads, and keeping eyes open.

Respect for Animals and Nature

Guidance on not chasing animals and protecting young trees.

ATV Maintenance Importance

Emphasizes regular maintenance and consulting dealer for issues.

Cargo Limitations and Distribution

Details weight limits, distribution, and speed considerations for cargo.

Sound Judgment: Load Capacity and Personal Choices

Arctic Cat ATV Load Capacity Ratings

Chart detailing maximum load capacities for various ATV components.

Personal Choices for Safe Riding

Emphasizes making safe choices despite the thrill of riding.

Alcohol and Drug Consumption Warning

Strong warning against alcohol/drug use while riding.

Sound Judgment: Substance Use and Condition

Substances to Avoid When Riding

Lists alcohol, drugs, and medications to avoid before/during riding.

Effects of Alcohol on Abilities

Details how alcohol impairs judgment, perception, and coordination.

Physical Condition and Riding

Advises against riding when physically exhausted.

Reckless Riding Warning

Warns against speeding, stunts, and the increased risk of injury.

Laws and Regulations Awareness

Stresses the importance of knowing and following local laws.

Group Behavior and Risk

Discusses how group dynamics can lead to riskier behavior.

Sound Judgment: SIPDE Process

SIPDE: Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute

Explains the SIPDE acronym for safe and effective riding.

Supervision Responsibilities

Supervising Inexperienced Riders

Ensuring untrained riders have proper instruction and supervision.

Supervising Experienced Riders

Acquainting experienced riders with specific ATV controls.

Age Restrictions for ATV Operation

Recommends age-appropriate sized ATVs and supervision.

Division II: Operation and Maintenance - ATV Specifications

Location of Parts and Controls

ATV Operation: Basic Maneuvers

Mounting and Dismounting the ATV

Step-by-step procedures for safely mounting and dismounting the ATV.

Starting the Engine Procedure

Safe steps for starting the ATV engine, including cold start.

ATV Operation: Shifting and Braking

ATV Shifting Procedures (Automatic Transmission)

How to shift between High, Low, and Reverse ranges.

Braking and Stopping Techniques

Proper methods for braking, stopping, and avoiding brake loss.

Parking Procedures

Steps for safely parking the ATV, including on hills.

ATV Operation: Handling Techniques

Dismounting the ATV Safely

Procedure for dismounting after parking.

Handling the ATV: Active Riding

Learning to lean and shift weight for ATV control.

Leaning, Weight Shift, and Balance

Techniques for maintaining control during turns.

ATV Operation: Turning Techniques

Wide Turns Method

Using body weight and leaning for wide turns.

Sharp Turns Technique

Advanced skill of sharp turns after mastering wide turns.

ATV Operation: Advanced Turning

Quick Turns Technique

Difficult turns for experienced riders.

K-Turns for Stalling on Hills

Procedure for U-turns on hills when stalled.

ATV Operation: Hill Riding

Riding Uphill Safely

Techniques for climbing hills to avoid rollovers.

Riding Downhill Safely

Proper use of brakes when descending hills.

ATV Operation: Traversing and Swerving

Sidehilling/Traversing Techniques

Advanced skill for riding on slopes; avoid if possible.

Swerving to Avoid Obstacles

Emergency reaction similar to quick turns but without acceleration.

ATV Operation: Obstacle Crossing

Crossing Obstacles Guidelines

General guidelines for riding over two-track obstacles.

ATV Operation: Tips and Special Situations

Tips for ATV Operation

Covers reversing, skidding, parking on hills, water crossing, etc.

Cold Weather Driving Precautions

Ensuring controls are free and wearing appropriate clothing.

Stopping the ATV and Engine

Procedures for safely stopping the vehicle and its engine.

General Information: Identification and Controls

ATV Identification Numbers (VIN & ESN)

Locating and recording vehicle identification numbers.

Ignition Switch Key and Positions

Understanding the ignition switch positions (OFF, ON, LIGHTS).

Control Locations Overview

Identifies key controls on the ATV.

General Information: Shifting and Drive Select

ATV Shift Lever Operation

How to shift between High, Low, and Reverse ranges.

Drive Select Switch (2WD/4WD)

Selecting between two-wheel and four-wheel drive modes.

General Information: Brake and Engine Controls

Hand Brake Lever and Brake Lever Lock

Operating the hand brake and its locking mechanism.

Headlight and Engine Stop Controls

Using headlight switches and the engine stop switch.

Starter Button Operation

How to use the starter button to start the engine.

General Information: Throttle and Power Steering

Throttle Lever and Limiter Adjustment

Controlling engine RPM and adjusting throttle limiter.

Rear Foot Brake Operation

How to apply the rear foot brake.

Power Steering System Overview

Information on the Electronic Power Steering system.

General Information: Digital Speedometer/LCD

Digital Speedometer/LCD Display Functions

Explains the various indicators and displays on the LCD.

Condition Warning Display Codes

Troubleshooting codes for EPS system malfunctions.

General Information: Gauge Indicators and Settings

Gauge Mode Button and Set/Reset Button

Using buttons to navigate and set gauge displays.

Odometer and Trip Meter Functions

How to read and reset odometer and trip meters.

Gear Position and 4WD Lock Indicators

Understanding gear selection and 4WD engagement indicators.

Drive Select and High Beam Indicators

Indicators for drive mode and high beam status.

Battery Condition Indicator Function

Monitors battery voltage and warns of low/high voltage.

General Information: Temperature and EFI Indicators

Temperature Indicator and Warnings

Interpreting the engine temperature indicator and its warnings.

EFI Error and Malfunction Indicators

Understanding EFI error codes and malfunction indicators.

General Information: Fuel, Oil, and Drive Indicators

Fuel Level Indicator

Shows the approximate amount of gasoline in the tank.

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

Indicates low oil pressure during self-test.

Odometer/Trip Meter Selection

How to select between ODO, T1, and T2 displays.

Gear Position Indicator Details

Explains gear indicators including error signals.

Speedometer/Tachometer Functionality

How the speedometer and tachometer functions work.

4WD Lock and Drive Select Indicators

Indicators for 4WD lock and drive select status.

High Beam Indicator Function

Indicates when the high beam is active.

Battery Condition Indicator Function

Monitors battery voltage and warns of low/high voltage.

General Information: Fluids and Lubricants

Gas Hoses Replacement Schedule

Recommends replacing gas hoses every two years.

Checking Engine Oil Level

Procedure for checking engine oil level using the dipstick.

Seat Latch Operation

How to secure the seat properly before riding.

Tailgate Latch Operation (TBX Models)

How to open and close the tailgate.

Cargo Box Latch Handles (TBX Models)

How to operate the cargo box latches.

General Information: Storage and Towing

Side Storage Compartment Access (TBX)

How to open and close the side storage compartment.

Safety Flag Bracket Installation

Information on mounting a flag bracket.

Rack Loading Guidelines

Ensuring loads on racks are secure and don't interfere with controls.

Trailering and Towing Safety

Critical safety advice for towing trailers with an ATV.

General Information: Transporting and Lubricants

Transporting the ATV Safely

Procedure for securing the ATV for transport.

Recommended Gasoline and Lubricants

Specifies recommended gasoline octane and lubricant types.

General Information: Fueling and Break-In

Filling the Gas Tank Safely

Safety precautions for filling the gas tank.

Engine Break-In Period

Importance of the break-in period for engine longevity.

Burnishing Brake Pads

Procedure to properly burnish new brake pads for effectiveness.

General Maintenance Procedures

Importance of Proper Maintenance

Stresses regular maintenance for optimal performance.

When to Seek Professional Service

Advises taking ATV to dealer if unqualified for maintenance.

Maintenance Schedule

Liquid Cooling System Maintenance

Checking and Filling Coolant

Procedure for checking and adding coolant.

Maintenance for Mud Pro Models

Specific cleaning instructions for radiator core on Mud Pro models.

Hydraulic Hand Brake System Maintenance

Brake Fluid Level Check

Checking and topping off brake fluid reservoir.

Brake Lever Lock Operation

Ensuring the brake lever lock engages and disengages correctly.

Brake Hose Inspection

Inspecting brake hoses for cracks or damage.

Brake Pad Wear Check

How to check brake pad thickness and when to replace.

Rear Foot Brake Functionality

Ensuring the rear foot brake is fully functional.

Hydraulic Brake System Maintenance Continued

Brake Fluid Reservoir Check

Checking brake fluid level and adding fluid if low.

Protective Rubber Boots Inspection

Periodic inspection of protective boots.

Ball Joint Boots Inspection

Checking ball joint boots for cracks or tears.

Tie Rod Boots Inspection

Inspecting tie rod boots for damage and checking free-play.

Drive Axle Boots Inspection

Checking drive axle boots for tears or perforations.

Battery Maintenance and Charging

Battery Cleaning and Terminal Care

Cleaning battery terminals with baking soda solution.

Maintenance Charging Procedures

Using CTEK chargers for battery maintenance.

Battery Charging and Jump-Starting

Battery Charging Process

Steps for connecting charger and charging the battery.

Jump-Starting a Vehicle Safely

Procedure for safely jump-starting an ATV with another vehicle.

Jump-Starting Safety and Procedures

Battery Safety Precautions

Safety measures when working with batteries.

Jumper Cable Connection Steps

Correctly connecting jumper cables to avoid damage or injury.

Spark Plug and Throttle Cable Maintenance

Spark Plug Inspection and Installation

Checking spark plug gap and proper tightening.

Throttle Cable Free-Play Adjustment

Adjusting throttle cable for proper free-play.

Air Filter Maintenance

Air Filter Cleaning and Service

Procedure for removing, cleaning, and oiling the air filter element.

Air Filter Housing Drain Inspection

Checking the drain for debris and proper sealing.

Tire Maintenance and Replacement

Tire Tread Condition and Replacement

Importance of tread depth and proper tire replacement.

Draining V-Belt Cover

Procedure for draining water from the V-belt cover.

Tire Replacement Precautions

Using proper tools and approved tires for replacement.

Wheel and Muffler Maintenance

Tubeless Tire Repair and Wheel Service

Repairing tire punctures and servicing wheels.

Muffler/Spark Arrester Cleaning

Periodically cleaning the spark arrester.

Light Bulb Replacement Guidelines

Using correct wattage bulbs for replacements.

Headlight Bulb Replacement

Procedure for replacing the headlight bulb.

Headlight Aim Adjustment

Taillight/Brakelight Bulb Replacement

Procedure for replacing taillight and brakelight bulbs.

Checking and Adjusting Headlight Aim

Steps for adjusting vertical and horizontal headlight aim.

Electrical System Components

Fuses and Power Distribution Module

Locating fuses and precautions for replacement.

Electrical Output Terminals

Information on accessory output terminals.

Storage Compartment and Tool Kit

Location of storage and provided tool kit.

Preparation for ATV Storage

Cleaning and Servicing for Storage

Steps for cleaning and preparing ATV before storage.

Fuel System Preparation for Storage

Draining or stabilizing fuel for long-term storage.

Battery Preparation for Storage

Disconnecting and storing the battery properly.

Preparation after ATV Storage

Post-Storage ATV Preparation Steps

Steps for preparing ATV after storage for use.

Maintenance Record Keeping

Change of Address, Ownership, or Warranty Transfer

Warranty Transfer Procedure

How to transfer the remaining warranty to a new owner.

ATV Rider Course Enrollment

Information on enrolling in ATV rider courses for skill enhancement.

Identification Numbers Record

Key Identification Number Recording

Recording the key identification number for replacement.

Vehicle and Engine Serial Number Recording

Recording VIN and ESN for parts ordering and reference.

Related product manuals