Argo Aurora 800 - 4.5 Gear Selection

18
SECTION 4
DRIVING PROCEDURES
4.5 GEAR SELECTION
ADM
The Aurora Argo models are equipped with the ADMIRAL
steeringtransmission.TheADMIRALisatripledierential
transmission with unique steering characteristics not found
in prior Argo models or traditional skid steer vehicles. The
ADMIRAL features two distinct modes of operation, HIGH
range for typical trail riding and LOW range when tight turns
are required. This transmission allows the ARGO to tackle a
wider range of terrains and operating conditions.
When operating in HIGH range, a full lock right steering input
will cause the right side wheels to turn forward at a lower rate
(approximately 1/3 the speed) compared to the left side wheels
and vice versa when full lock left steering input is applied.
While this does not allow for zero radius turns, as found on
somemodelsequippedwiththeClassicsingle dierential
transmission (e.g;some Frontier and Avenger models), it does
greatlyincreaseeciency,reducesengine,transmission&
braketemperaturesandreducesdriversteeringeort.
When operating in LOW range, a full lock right steering input
will cause the right side wheels to slow down and come close
to a complete stop. This will result in a much tighter turn.
This mode of operation should only be used for slow speed
operation when tight turning is required.
NOTE: Extended use of Low range at higher speeds may
result in increased engine, transmission and brake tempera-
tures. This mode of operation should be avoided unless the
terrain or obstacles warrants its use.
4.5.1 Selecting Forward, Neutral, Reverse, High or Low
The ADMIRAL transmission uses dog clutches to engage
internal gears. The dog clutch is not synchronized to allow
forshifting-on-the-y.Toavoidpersonalinjury,transmis-
sion, vehicle or property damage, always bring the vehicle to
a complete stop, allow the engine to return to idle, compress
and hold the hydraulic hand brake, then select the appropriate
gear function. Once selected, release the hydraulic hand brake
and accelerate to desired speed.
NOTE: When selecting from HI to LOW or LOW to HI, the
dog clutch may not automatically engage its mating gear.
This is normal and expected. The HI and LOW selector is
spring-loaded and will lock into place once engine RPM rises
and clutches begin to engage. A slight, but normal, “clunk”
noise may be heard during this procedure.
4.5.2 Recommended Gear Selections
Trails and higher speed driving: Recommended gear selec-
tion HIGH range: In High range, these models will turn as
tight as most ATV’s and UTV’s, which is ideal for trail riding.
Compared to previous braked skid steer vehicles, these models
will corner with minimal loss of speed or engine power. The
increasedeciencyresultsincoolerrunningtemperaturesfor
the engine, transmission and steering system.
Towing: Recommended gear selection HIGH range: With
increasedeciencyandpositiveall-wheeldriveinhighrange,
the operator is able to maintain momentum, traction and con-
trol while under load. Engine power and smooth steering is
maintained, point-turn operation is eliminated, allowing for
smooth operation and towing. The elimination of point-turn
while in high range reduces the likelihood of a “jackknife”
situation.
Climbing hills: Recommended gear selection HIGH
range: Similar to a towing situation, climbing hills success-
fully means maintaining traction and momentum. It is usually
unwise (and unsafe) to perform sharp turns while climbing
hills, so Low range, if required, should be used with caution
in these situations.
Mud and Snow (including track use): Recommended gear
selection HIGH or LOW range: Low traction situations
are usually handled best in high range due to the fact that
anyturninginputswill“lockthedierential”andforceall8
wheels to drive. If tightly spaced obstacles are present, low
range will provide added maneuverability, albeit at a cost in
bothtractionandeciency.
Water / Amphibious use: Recommended gear selection
HIGH or LOW range: While operating the vehicle in deep
water, either range selection may be appropriate. In High
range, the operator may notice a lack of maneuverability, es-
pecially at full throttle. In Low range, the inside, or steered,
tires can counter rotate thereby providing greater maneuver-
ability and control when turning the vehicle. There is a slight
reduction of top speed when selecting Low range for water /
amphibious use.
Low speed (with obstacles): Recommended gear selection
Low range:Whiletraversingarockeldorawoodedarea,
increased maneuverability available in Low range is a valuable
asset. Switching back to High is highly recommended when
the terrain clears and tight / sharp turning is not required.