ask the arctic cat engineers 2004 models

Coolant Bottle
arcticcatzr500
I see the F6 coolant bottle is larger than the 03 F7. Is the 04 F7 going to have this larger bottle?
Can this Larger coolant bottle be put on the 03 F7? What is the overall effect does this bottle
have on the cooling of the F6?
Thanks
Tom
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Yes, F7 will have larger bottle.
Yes, can be put on the 2003 F7. Better air/bleeding from the system.

Saber Cat...2-up add on seat??
ZR Sled Head
Had a look at the SaberCat at the Toronto show last night, nice looking ride. Will there be an acc add on two up seat that will replace the trunk?
Thanks
Rick.
SNOCAT7
I have the '01 ZL 600 EFI with the 2 up seat and I was wondering the same thing. You couldn't get the 2-up seat w/ EFI in '01 so the dealer pulled the seat off by the staples and stapled onto my machine. Something to do with the fuel pump in the tank. I need the 2-up seat occasionally so may have to go REV GSX next year if not offered by Cat. I know they don't sell a lot of them.--snocat
MUSKOKA800
A jumpseat would be a great accessory if it could simply replace the trunk whenever needed.
SNOCAT7
My thoughts exactly.
snowtracker
ZR Sled Head,
If AC doesn't offer the 2-up seat you want, have you looked into Seatjack?
Seatjack is a removable 2nd seat that can slide on (for 2nd rider) and slide off when not in use. (www.jackindustries.com).
Just a thought.
-snowtracker
Arctic_Cat_Rep
No 2-up seat available. Sorry.

Firecats options
sportrac54
Why was there no spark plug holder on the 03 and will there really be one for 04?
Both years of brochures indicate there is one.
Also how about electronic reverse.... would be nice with very little weight gain.
cajun86
Cost $1.50 its on the parts shelf.
Ski-Dont owns the rights for reverse. How much are you willing to pay for something that you don't need and really will never use?
sportrac54
Cajun86 you are missing my point. The brochures should be accurate and not have
the same discreptancies 2 years in a row. People bitched when the tripples came
with only a 2 plug holder and I am saying if the cost is only $1.50( as you say)... maybe
for the price we are paying for the Firecat they could make sure to supply the
plug holder as printed in their brochures.
As for the electronic reverse I still think it would be nice. As for the don't need or
will never use... I would use it every time I ride since I do trailer with 3 sleds!
Arctic_Cat_Rep
The spark plug holder is an accessory on the Firecat - standard on Sabarcats.
Electronic reverse is not available for '04.

F-BODIED T660 TURBO
SNOCAT7
With 4 strokes heavier anyway, why not squeeze the 660 turbo into a F chassis? Do that and put the Great Cat curved handle bars on it and I''d know what I was going to spring check. Right now its wait until they put it into a lighter chassis and keep the current model.--snocat
aczr600
snocat are you on drugs?have you ever seen the 700 motor shoe horned into that bulkhead,they could'nt even fit big block 800/900 in their and you think a 4 stroker would fit,come on sharping up!!!!!!!
SNOCAT7
Of course I have. I'm thinking it will be in that chassis or a similiar one next year. Wait and see. Then we will not only see who's on drugs but who doesn't have a clue!!!
aczr600
yeah whatever ,obviliously you have no engineering skills or you would not be talking like a moron,in order to fit that engine or even the big block engine into that chassis ,they would have to widen it,now would'nt that defeat the purpose of the narrow tunnel design in the first place,sharpen up a bit before you write a stupid post that this one.
SNOCAT7
aczr, you stupid, ignorant asswipe. I'd like to meet up with you and we will see who calls who a moran. I'm entitled to my post and if you have to resort to name calling I guess I'll have to also. You arrogant SOB!!!!
aczr600
well come on think about what your saying here,a 4 stroke is not going into the f chassis and thats all there is to that,if you had any common sense and have seen both sleds you would know that it aint going to happen.and anoyher thing i didnt call you a moron, i said you were talking like a moron and i would say it to your face and there aint a damn thing you can do about it !!!!
SNOCAT7
Give me your address!! WE WILL TALK MAN TO MAN punk!
aczr600
417 merrimam ave syracuse ny come and get it!
SNOCAT7
Be there in an hour!!
aczr600
o.k but be careful when you turn down fitch st. the street gangs have took over the corner,so try and come the other way.its the blue house,not the brown house,you will be able to tell,i have sleds in the driveway the drug dealers dont.
cajun86
Screw four strokes, stick with two strokes, with direct injection.
Mighty RX-1
and what cat has that cajun?
ACAT600
A v twin four stroke wouldfit in the F chassis, and RX-1 which yamaha has it?
Mighty RX-1
I'm not saying Yamaha has it, simply informing cajun that cat doesn't.
ACAT600
all ready had it on the 1000 water craft so its available
Arctic_Cat_Rep
3-cylinder 4-stroke will not fit in Firecat chassis.

9-tooth drivers on firecats
joetech
What was the reason for going back to 9-tooth drivers? I never heard of any problems with the 10-tooth.
Will track racheting be a problem without a torque sensing link and smaller drivers?
cajun86
No, ten tooth bottoms out to easy and causes drive line problems. Also, nine tooth allows for more adjustment in rear suspension and turns sharper.
joetech
thanks for the info cajun86, this makes some sense, where did you learn this from, snowcross experience or another source?
also, how about the gear reduction ratio on the diamond drive. Since the clutches have a wider range, is the ratio lower or higher than a standard reduction ratio?
Arctic_Cat_Rep
1. Lower gear ratio
2. Better clearance

04 f7
js
will the 04 f7 chassis design have the same modifications as the f6? I have heard that the f6 handles and rides much better.
Thanks Jim
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Yes. Please see the post entitled, '' 2004 Firecat Enhancements''. Thanks.

T660 Handlebars
mainekat
Please put the 03 ZL curved bars on the T660 for 04.
wmclaren
I second that!
Wayne
clarky
Third.
SNOCAT7
Agreed!
snappydave
DITTO! snap
arctic
Curved handlebars very similar to the 04' Sabercat and 03' ZL are already in place for the T660 Turbo's. The current sleds at the various consumer shows do not reflect this, but I can assure you that the production sleds will have curved bars.
mainekat
ALRIGHT!!! Thanks arctic
Arctic_Cat_Rep
We agree. It's already done. They will have the curved bars for production.

Why not a water tempature gauge?
small six
Wouldn''t a water temerature be a great addition to a sled?Think about it, less cold siezures,less warranty claims,an idea how hot were running in diff conditions.What are your reasons for not having them on sleds?They can''t be that expensive,heck even my 1980 el tigre 6000 had one!SS
SnoPro 760
I have one on a 800 CC. Doesn't work currently. Heres a few problems.
1. Wires always break off the sensor. The 800 twin eninge vibrates too much, and the wires always break off of the connectors. Tried relocating wires, and sensor. No different. Havn't tried to soldiering yet.
2. When riding in extreamly hard pack conditions (near ice), the gauge will rise to a higher temp (duh). When you view the gauge, you think your running hot, so you will want to stop, and let it cool down. Even though the temp light is not on yet. In other works, you will be worrying for no reason.
Not sure if it would help with cold siezures.
However, your correct. its a 150 dollar option, why not factory!
small six
Snopro760,the temp wire seems to hold on rather well ...why not the gage.My brother has a digitron water gauge on his t-cat.He loves it!He always has an idea of how hot his engine is running and if all of a sudden there was a big change YES he could stop and investigate,where as ,I may have a cooked motor.Guess I'm one of those guys that watches my temp gage on whatever I'm driving?SS
SnoPro 760
SS, I agree, Its better to be careful than blow up.
I'm just saying that the Cat temp light is pretty good.
And the wires were breaking off the sensor (the unit which goes in-line of the coolant hose). The hose was moving around too much (espically at idle) that the wires would wiggle around, and break off of the connectors.
The gauge (which goes in the hood) was fine. The reason mine doesn't work now is the wires have broken off (again). Havn't tried soldering yet.
It won't be my problem in a week or two!!! ;-)
tcat2
I second that motion. Temperature gauges should be on all sleds.
Fot accuracy ... You could try a Stuart Warner mechanical gauge. I have one on my TCat. It continues to register the temperature even after the engine is shut down. No problem with wires coming loose.
catbax
Where are the Engineers with their answers?
snappydave
Yes, I agree also. The H2O Temp gauge would be a welcome addition, something the other brands don't put on their sleds either. snap
cajun86
At least make it an option.
Arctic_Cat_Rep
We feel the light is a better system vs. a gauge.

Hnadlebar warmer switches
snappydave
You guys admitted an OOPS! last year by putting them on the throttle side,,, hey, they switches are still on the throttle side on the proto''s!,, they need switched before the production run. JMO. snap
ZR Sled Head
Same set up but on the other side and ya got a winner.
Rick.
amccatman
How about lighted switches?
cajun86
THE SWITCHS AND LOCATION ARE JUST FINE, SPEND MORE TIME IN QUALITY CONTROL DEPT.
sportrac54
I agree with Cajun86, please lets spend some time on quality control for 2004 !
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Sorry. The handlebar switches will be on the right hand side for 2004.

T660's boost vs. poor fuel quality
snappydave
What safety measures are implemented if the T660 gets a tank of bum fuel? With 21 lbs of boost, it would seem a knock sensor is not going to be sufficient enough to prevent a major piston-eating event. Shed some light on this possible fiasco?
Thanks. snap
MUSKOKA800
Good point Snap.
I understand that Canada already has one of the poorest quality gasolines in the world. Your concern could be even more relevant here.
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Testing has shown no such problem.

ext special
zr6000852
can you release a more "moutain" f7 ext.
1.deeper lug track 1.5
2.mountain style anti slip running boards
3.cat mountain bars.the best by the way
4.parabolic skis
Arctic_Cat_Rep
1. There are tracks available through accessories.
2. Again, we do have them available as an accessory.
3. They are not available for an F7
4. They may be added via an accessory.

t660 turbo
evants
can you tell me the expected fuel consumption figures with the turbo. thank you.
evants
both for the t660 turbo and the t 660 turbo touring.
Arctic_Cat_Rep
That largely depends on how you drive (speed, weight, etc.) We have seen low 20s to mid-teens.

Answer Yes or NO For F7 Sno Pro
battani
1. More sound insulation on clutch guard and bellypan(clutch side)
2. brighter lighting on speedo/tach white face gauges and possibly the electronic gas gauge.
3. Rider position slightly higher(more like the ZR) and seat foam softer
4. Different rear cooler. More, less or revised design?
5. extending black plastic from tail light area forward under seat
6. x-link suspension
7. smaller gas cap
8. Difference Fuel Map than 03? If yes, why?
9. New dual runner carbides
10. Difference Clutch kits than 03? Weights, Springs, and Helix?
Thank you
Battani
sybjer
11. If answer to #2 is yes as I have heard it is, how possible is it to make the 03 brighter?
Thanks
cajun86
Throw out 1, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10 the rest deserve an answer.
Arctic_Cat_Rep
1. Yes
2. Yes (brighter gauges). No (electronic gas gauge).
3. Seat foam stiffer, not softer (Yes)
4. Better blow
5. Yes
6. No
7. No
8. Slightly
9. Yes
10. Wide fixed pin. Weight design.
Thanks.
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Also, check out ''2004 Firecat Enhancements''

t660 cowl...
aczr600
will t660 cowl fit on 00-04 zr''s,bellypan looks close,would be interested in updated look for one of my zr''s
Arctic_Cat_Rep
The T660 hood does not fit ZR (two strokes) because of exhaust pipe clearance.

My .02 cents
icecube
You guys have guts...Don''t ever stop!!!
I have your first ZR800
will be purchasing in 2005
You need to go all out and put up a
"Full" SNO-PRO chassis for us...
with dial adjust skid shock, clickers all around
and 700 engine
Why...I Work Hard and Play Harder!!!
Please and Thank you
Ice
P.S gls is a great asset to you company, he should be commended for what he is doing out here for us...
icecube
Oh and if you want me to put my money where my mouth is...
Call George at Snow City Cycle to get the down payment from AirLongo...
Ice
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Thanks for the input. And the compliments!

Reverse on a ZR 900
Tom Lee
Is it in the plans to make it available? I have been spoiled the past fwe years and don''t want to go without. The net says N/A but dealers saying it will be-who to beleive?
1Gunner
''Listening''
arctic
There currently are no plans for reverse on a 2004 ZR 900.
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Reverse on the ACT Diamond is not available for 2004.

ZR900 diamond drive
CATMANTOO
Does it increase the horsepower at the track if so how much? Thank you.
NASH
Can you easily change the gear ratio? How much $$$ for different gear sets?
Thanks
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Yes. Price has not yet been determined.
ACT Diamond Drive gives a ''wider ratio'' in the drive system. It is geared lower and has more over-drive.

Diamond drive 900 ZR
HP
How much more drag is there in the new Diamond drive vs a chain to gear drive?? And where is all the weight savings?? It looks like the main benefit of the new system is faster assembly at the plant and fewer parts. Will we see this system in the Firecats??
cajun86
I really can't believe you just asked that question, wow.
Krom
here is an easy answer, ditching the jackshaft alone is worth 6 or 7 lbs, the rest of the question shows such a lack of knowledge that no answer is deserved
Arctic_Cat_Rep
11 lbs. lighter because there is no driven shaft. More simple dropcase. Fewer parts.

'04 Mountain Cats???
phatcat9hun1M
I first would like to say I think you did a nice job improving on an already excellent sled for ''04. Nothing big just lots of little changes! The increased attention to Cat''s mountain lineup has been much anticipated and satisfying for me and I hope you keep up the good work, I sure think it is in Cat''s best interest to do so, esspecially in my area - Large mtn. market!
I do have a couple of questions concerning the ''04s-
1) what specific advantages does the new 6 post clutch have over the 9 tower besides being lighter?? performance gains? if so, how? new pin design- what is this???? weight pins??
2) is the entire chaincase composite plastic as written in magazines or is the chaincase cover the only plastic addition?
3) what is the deal with the King Cat track?? I have been told by my dealer that Kimpex is going to build the track for Cat instead of Camoplast? can u confirm this? Also I hear the lugs have a special angle to them?? What else can you tell me about this track??
4) will the King Cats be on display at the Snowmobile Expo in West Yellowstone this weekend, I plan to attend if they are.
5) why no diamond drive on MCs, this idea seems to fit mtn sleds best so why not??? and when can I expect to see it on mtn. lineup??
6) have the hose clamps on the rear heat exchangers been redesigned for ''04??? I know there were some problems last year with the track making contact with the hose clamps causing them to loosen, leak coolant and sometimes damage the track??
5) what will be the secondary clutch setup for 6,000-9,000 feet?? I hear rumors of different helix and/or spring???
thanks alot in advance for your time and knowledge, it helps me out a lot in a possible buying decision!
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Thank you for the compliments!
1. Better durability
2. The entire chaincase is composite
3. The track is not a Kimpex track. The lugs are ''reverse'' angle to pack the snow. 162'' x 2.25'' track.
4. Yes, they were there. We hope you had a chance to check them out.
5. The 1M chaincase location is different than the ZR location.
6. Yes
Good questions. Thank you.

04 Firecat Std Suspension Calibration
snowgoer
Is the valving or spring rate changed for the 04 Firecat vrs the 03--F 7, ? Also-what changes for the Snopro Pkg vrs 03 setup. thanks
Arctic_Cat_Rep
There are slight changes to the calibration of both standard Firecat & SnoPro package Firecat.

660 turbo
byoffcr
Can u change boost to 30lbs for more performance ?
pjohn44
How or was this engine beefed up to handle the extra stress caused by turbo charging and has there been any long term or real world testing done on this sled ?
Arctic_Cat_Rep
No, boost pressure is not adjustable.

ZR900 esr?
CATMANTOO
I was wondering if there will be a esr ZR900 and have you done anything about the rear springs?My 03 900 I had to replace the rear springs.
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Reverse is not available on the 2004 ZR 9. Will it ever be available? We're going to try and stick to current product questions. Thanks,

Factory studded track
ZR Sled Head
In light of all the insurance issues both north and south of the border and the ever increasing push for increased trail safey, will we see factory studded sleds as an option?
Rick.
cajun86
No thanks
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Nope. Application of track studs is and will remain a customer preference.
Good question. Thanks.

Factory anti theft devices..overdue
ZR Sled Head
With sleds being far too easily stollen is it not time the factories follow Ski-Doos lead with at least some sort of an anti theft device? Their Dess system at least guarantees the sled would have to be towed or carried away from its location not like my current sled that only requires the ign switch wires be unplugged.
Will some sort of a factory system be at least offered as an option this year?
Rick.
mainekat
I second that!
MUSKOKA800
Long overdue!
zipclean
I made a real simple engine lock. Take a 10'' or so, peice of 1/2 round bar and weld a 2'' WASHER ON ONE END AND DRILL a hole for a pad lock on the other end. When you stop for dinner or what ever take this bar out of your back seat storage and put it through the primary clutch and put a pad lock through the end .that way no one can pull out the bar or start you sled because the bar hits the belly pan and won't let the engine turn over.P.S. I also duct tape the bar from end to end so it does't damage the clutch or dip it in that liquid rubber stuff that puts a nice coat of rubber on it. Just my idea??! But yes it is over due when almost any Cat key will start almost any sled with out modification.
cajun86
How about using a kill switch of your choice and location. It cost under $5 and takes about 10-15 mins. for install. Wow wasn't that simple.
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Some very interesting ideas brought up here. But with cost always in mind, we have to keep in mind how much our customers are willing to pay.
It still isn't 100% theft proof. Thieves may still haul them away unfortunately.

2004 Firecat changes from 2003
sportrac54
Would it be possible to have a brief list of the planned changes for 2004 in the
F7 .
thanks in advance
cajun86
Check past posts, the answer is there!
Arctic_Cat_Rep
Yes,
Please refer to the topic called ''2004 Firecat Enhancements'' recently posted. You'll find a complete list there. Thanks.