9
NOTE: On the Wildcat/X, the seats and rear body panel
must be removed and the radiator tilted rearward for this
procedure.
NOTE: On the Wildcat 4/4X, the rear seats and rear
body panel must be removed and the radiator tilted rear-
ward for this procedure.
1. Remove the high tension lead from the spark plugs.
2. Using compressed air, blow any debris from around
the spark plugs.
3. Remove the spark plugs; then attach the high tension
leads to the plugs and ground the plugs on the cylinder
heads well away from the spark plug holes.
4. Attach the Compression Tester Kit.
5. While holding the throttle in the full-open position,
crank the engine over with the electric starter until the
gauge stops climbing (five to 10 compression strokes).
Compression should be as shown in the chart.
NOTE: If the throttle is not held in the full-open posi-
tion, compression reading can be low.
6. If compression is abnormally low, verify the following:
A. Starter cranks engine over (normal speed).
B. Gauge is functioning properly.
C. Throttle in the full-open position.
D. Valve/tappet clearance correct.
E. Engine warmed up.
F. Intake not restricted.
NOTE: To service top-side components, see Engine/
Transmission.
7. Pour approximately 30 ml (1 fl oz) of oil into the spark
plug holes, reattach the gauge, and retest compression.
8. If compression increases to normal, service the piston
rings (see Engine/Transmission - Servicing Top-Side
Components).
Spark Plugs
A light brown insulator indicates the plug is correct. A white or
dark insulator indicates that the engine may need to be serviced.
To maintain a hot, strong spark, keep the plug free of carbon.
Adjust the gap to 0.5-0.6 mm (0.019-0.024 in.).
ATV-0051
ATV0052E
When installing a spark plug, be sure to tighten it securely. A
new spark plug should be tightened 1/2 turn once the washer
contacts the cylinder head. A used spark plug should be tight-
ened 1/8-1/4 turn once the washer contacts the cylinder head.
Muffler/Spark Arrester
Clean the spark arrester using the following procedure.
1. Remove the machine screws securing the rear section
of the heat shield to the main muffler shield.
WC008A
! WARNING
Always wear safety glasses when using compressed air.
PSI (WOT)
Front (Wildcat/Wildcat 4)
125-145
Rear (Wildcat/Wildcat 4)
165-185
Front (X/4X)
190-220
Rear (X/4X)
190-220
CAUTION
Before removing a spark plug, be sure to clean the area
around the spark plug. Dirt could enter engine when
removing or installing the spark plug.
! WARNING
Wait until the muffler cools to avoid burns.
