20
SECTION 5
DRIVING PROCEDURES IN UNUSUAL CONDITIONS
pulling on the right bar and pushing on the left to steer right or
vise-versa to travel left. The turning radius is somewhat greater
in water, and the vehicle does not respond to changes in di-
rection as quickly as it does on land.
The vehicle is propelled forward through the water by the web
of the tires as they rotate. To back up in water, release the
throttle, shift the transmission into neutral, and use a paddle.
Avoid rocks, stumps or other obstacles that are below the
surface of the water. Striking these obstacles may damage the
bottom or upset the vehicle.
If your vehicle begins to fill with water, immediately head to
the nearest shore. Get the vehicle out of the water and drain it
by removing both rear drain plugs. Correct the leak before
entering the water again.
Do not leave the vehicle in water for extended periods
of time. Water could enter the axle seals and cause dam-
age to the axle bearings.
5.6.3 Driving Out of Water
When driving out of water, choose an area of the shore that is
reasonably flat and free of rocks, stumps and other obstacles.
Steer the vehicle so that both front wheels reach the shore at
the same time. Accelerate slowly until the vehicle is out of the
water. If vehicle is equipped with a ROPS system, re-fasten
seatbelts.
5.6.4 Outboard Motor Bracket
All C, R, B, A, N and S models may be equipped with an op-
tional outboard motor bracket (ARGO Part No. 617-00) and
support (ARGO Part No. 618-00 or 618-10 Outboard Motor
Bracket - Side Mount) are available to mount an outboard
motor up to 9.9 h.p. Avenger models may be equipped with the
617-10 Side Mount Outboard Bracket. A long shaft outboard
motor is preferred to prevent cavitation.
Do not mount an outboard motor on the vehicle unless the
special bracket is used. Damage to the vehicle will occur if an
outboard motor is mounted directly on the vehicle body.
Gasoline is extremely flammable and can explode if ig-
nited. Fill outboard motor fuel tanks outside of the ve-
hicle. Wipe up any spilled fuel immediately. Do not carry
or store fuel tanks in a vehicle equipped with a cab or
convertible top unless adequate ventilation is provided.
5.7 WINTER OPERATION
Follow these precautions when operating the ARGO in winter
conditions:
• Equip the vehicle for remote area use, as listed in Section
5.1.
• Keep the battery fully charged and in good condition.
• Use the recommended winter grade of engine oil.
• Do not allow water or snow to accumulate in the vehicle.
Snow may melt during operation of the vehicle, collect in
the lower body and freeze around the chains and final drive
components, immobilizing the vehicle.
• Store the vehicle indoors or under cover.
• Equip your vehicle with snow tracks for travel over deep
snow.
• Steep, snow-covered or icy hills may be more difficult to
ascend. Ice cleat kits (625-20 for 6 wheel or 825-20 for
8 wheel) are available for Super Track systems.
• Never travel alone into a remote area. Leave your route
and arrival plans with someone who can send help if you
fail to arrive as planned.
5.7.1 Use on Ice Covered Bodies of Water
Using the ARGO on ice-covered bodies of water is po-
tentially hazardous. Use extreme caution. Exposure to
cold water reduces a person’s chance of survival. Pro-
tective clothing, such as a marine survival suit will sig-
nificantly decrease the effect of exposure in frigid wa-
ter.
Before venturing out onto ice-covered bodies of water, it is
extremely important to:
• Check the ice thickness and condition to be sure it will
support the vehicle.
• Take all precautions as in Section 5.6, particularly para-
graph 3 referring to drain plugs.
If the vehicle breaks through the ice, it will float in the water,
provided that there are no leaks in the body, the drain plugs
are in place and vehicle is not taking on water through any
body openings. However, there is a risk of the vehicle tipping,
particularly if the load is unbalanced. Be prepared to shift
occupants’ weight for balance.
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