Yep, there were some first-year gremlins on 2012 Arctic Cat snowmobiles.
And yes, solutions are coming.
Here’s the first of a few posts detailing changes for the 2013 models, this time focussing on the drivetrain updates.
Let’s start with the Reverse system on the 4-strokes, which was the source of understandable frustration in 2012
The problem: a combination of an imperfect design and some out-of-tolerance components rendered a system that would only partially shift into forward/reverse (especially when the rider would hit the gas prior to full-shift). Then, when a load was given, the partially-engaged splines would sheer and render the system useless for many. Bad deal, for sure.
For 2013, a change to a rack-and-pinion design produces double the force to shift between forward/reverse, delivering a positive engagement.
This new system will be updated on all 2012 models beginning in September.
Next up, the equally-frustrating blown belt issues for some 800 owners.
Several factors led to blown belts this past season, including a nut that wasn’t properly torqued on the jackshaft gear in the chaincase on some models (causing the shaft to slide away from the case and thus causing significant clutch/belt misalignment), as well as inadequate belt construction.
A switch to a harder compound, as well as an improved construction process, has produced a new belt (P/N 0627-084) that is both stronger and runs cooler than the -083 belt.
A casualty of production material variance in 2012 caused cracking and breaking of the driven clutch rollers.
A switch to a more robust material for 2013 has literally doubled the force required to produce failure. With production tolerance factored in, the new rollers are going live as expected.
And finally, a new drive clutch spring for all 2013 Arctic Cat F and XF800s reduces engagement rpm from 3200 to 2800. The smoother, less-abrupt engagement improves drivability.
I’ll post more information on other changes for 2013 soon.
Thanks for reading.