Assume that the front arm functions as a stationary pivot point between the rear axle center and the ski saddle center. Also assume that the ski saddle center is the same height off the ground as the rear axle center. This produces the standard position arrangement.
Suspension NOTE: Whenever a part is worn excessively,
cracked, or damaged in any way, replacement is necessary.
SPECIAL TOOLS
A number of special tools must be available to the technician when servicing the rear suspension. NOTE: When indicated for use, each special tool
will be identified by its specific name, as shown in the chart below, and capitalized. Description
p/n
Shock Absorber Air Pump
2603-614
Piston Location Tool
0644-169
Idler Wheel Puller Kit
0644-570
Inflation Needle
0744-020
Rear Suspension Spring Tool
0144-311
Gas Shock Retaining Blocks (Zero Pro)
0644-486
Spanner Wrench — FOX Float Shock
0744-072
Handlebar Stand
5639-152
Steering Post Stand
5639-946
Bearing Cap Seal Protector
0644-268
Floating Piston Location Gauge
0644-350
Axle Nut Spanner Wrench
0644-454
0728-180
Under acceleration when the center of gravity is transferred to the rear of the machine, the rear suspension collapses slightly. This brings the rear arm point downward and with the front arm stationary, the teeter-totter effect reduces the pressure on the skis, position A. However, for controlled cornering, more pressure is needed on the skis. So when the driver decelerates coming into a corner, the center of gravity is transferred forward, putting the required pressure onto the skis and reducing the pressure on the rear suspension, position C.
NOTE: Special tools are available from the Arctic Cat Service Parts Department. UNDERSTANDING THE SUSPENSION
Quick acceleration and the ability to go through the turns with power are the most important handling qualities. This section explains how the skid frame functions to provide these two important handling qualities. Before proceeding, however, note these terms. Weight Transfer — A shift in the center of gravity in any direction depends on the force applied. Track Tension — The amount of tightness or looseness of the track when correctly mounted in the chassis. Spring Tension — The amount of force exerted on the spring by either fork tension adjustment or eyebolt adjustment. Ski Pressure — The amount of force exerted downward on the skis. Good weight transfer characteristics are needed for fast acceleration (shift of weight from skis to track) and for cornering (shift of weight back to skis to hold the front end in turns). Effective weight transfer depends on suspension tension, position of rider, and the position of the front arm limiter. To understand how the suspension system works, think of the entire system in terms of three points; the skid frame rear axle center, the skid frame front arm, and the ski saddle center.
0728-181
This is essentially what weight transfer is all about the shift of weight to the rear of the machine for positive traction and good acceleration or to the front of the machine for positive handling and cornering control.
Suspension Setup Basics SKI SHOCK ABSORBER SPRINGS
The shock absorber springs have been matched to the shock valving and rear suspension. These springs are the result of hours of testing and comparison riding trying many different combinations of springs and shocks. If changes are necessary, several spring and shock sizes are available. While making these changes, keep the following points in mind.
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