53
Suspension
The suspension should be adjusted for
the operational needs and riding prefer-
ence of the operator.
The front shock springs determine the
amount of ski pressure and the reaction
of the front suspension to rough terrain.
The amount of ski pressure can also be
changed by adjusting the length of the
skid frame front arm limiter straps.
The rear springs influence the load carry-
ing capability of the snowmobile and
should be adjusted for the weight and rid-
ing preference of the operator.
Adjusting Front Ski Shock
Springs
The front (ski) shock springs are individ-
ually adjustable for the terrain conditions
and driving style of the operator. The
spring adjuster nut has been set at the fac-
tory so the correct amount of threads are
exposed between the adjuster nut and the
threaded shock body as an initial setting.
Additional ski pressure can be obtained
by tightening the spring tension; ski pres-
sure can be decreased by relaxing spring
tension.
NOTE: Equal adjustments should
be maintained on both sides of the
snowmobile.
On 2000 models to adjust spring tension,
rotate the entire spring in whichever
direction is desired. If after adjusting
spring tension you note the snowmobile
front end wants to pitch, relax the spring
tension on the side that is pitching. If
both sides are pitching, relax the spring
tension on both sides.
NOTE: The spring adjuster will
normally rotate with the spring.
734-501B
On 3000 and 7000 models, the front (ski)
shock spring pre-load adjustment is
accomplished by loosening the adjuster
nut locking collar (B) from the adjuster
nut (A) and using the Spring Adjuster
Tool from the tool kit, rotating the
adjuster nut in whichever direction is
desired. Tighten the locking collar
against the adjuster nut.
0745-159
Adjusting Skid Frame
Front Arm
On these models, the skid frame front
arm shock spring tension and the limiter
straps are adjustable. However, Arctic
Cat recommends that the shock spring be
maintained at the factory preset of 1/8-1/
4 in. preload. Tightening the skid frame
front arm shock spring may cause
improper balance and may ruin the han-
dling features of the snowmobile.
The length adjustment of the front arm
limiter straps determines the weight dis-
tribution between the front of the skid
frame and the skis. Tightening the limiter
strap (shortening the strap) will pull up
on the front of the skid frame and will
increase ski pressure. Loosening the lim-
iter strap (lengthening the strap) lowers
the front of the skid frame and decreases
ski pressure.
When customizing the amount of ski
pressure, be sure to adjust both straps
equally and do not over-adjust the limiter
straps to adversely affect steering and
operator control of the snowmobile.
Some experimentation may be required
until the proper adjustment for the opera-
tor’s individual style is obtained.