Operator`s manual
18
SECTION 5
DRIVING PROCEDURES IN UNUSUAL CONDITIONS
3. Make sure that any cargo in the rear of the vehicle is evenly
distributed.
4. Periodically inspect the outer bearing ange and gaskets
of each axle (Figure 5-3) to ensure they are water tight. If
there are signs of water leaking into the lower body, take
corrective action before entering water again. Make sure
there is sufcient grease in the bearing ange and that the
grease seal is in good condition.
Figure 5-2. Removing and Installing the drain plug.
Figure 5-3. Outer bearing ange sealing area.
Always observe the recognized rules of boating while
traveling in water.
5.6.1 Entering the Water
Load capacity on water is reduced by 100lbs. if your
8x8 Argo is equipped with optional smaller 24x10.00-8
tires when the standard spec would include 25x12.00-9
(see Section 1.4). The reduced buoyancy could cause
the Argo to become swamped and sink, causing injury
or drowning to the driver and passengers.
The point of entry should be free of rocks, stumps and other
obstacles. Enter the water from a rm, gradual slope whenever
possible. With the wheels partially submerged but still in
contact with the bottom, stop and check thoroughly for water
entering the lower body.
If a leak is detected, drive back onto shore. Drain the vehicle
and repair the leak before re-entering the water.
If the body of water must be entered from a steep slope or
uneven terrain, back the vehicle into the water. With the en-
gine and transmission weight concentrated in the front of the
vehicle, the rear is lighter and oats higher.
Be careful not to submerge the bumper as you enter the water.
With the bumper submerged, water can enter through the
openings in the upper body.
5.6.2 Driving Procedures in Water
After the vehicle is oating evenly on the water, turn the
throttle twist grip to increase speed. (Note: If the vehicle is
equipped with a ROPS, unlatch all seatbelts.) Use only part
throttle when traveling through water. Full throttle only results
in excessive turbulence, not higher speeds.
The vehicle is steered by a combination of pulling on the right
bar and pushing on the left to steer right or vise-versa to travel
left. The turning radius is somewhat greater in water, and the
vehicle does not respond to changes in direction as quickly
as it does on land. Turning the HDi and HD models in water
may be more effective in Low gear.
The vehicle is propelled forward through the water by the web
of the tires as they rotate. To back up in water, release the throt-
tle, shift the transmission into neutral, and use a paddle.
Avoid rocks, stumps or other obstacles that are below the
surface of the water. Striking these obstacles may damage
the bottom or upset the vehicle.
If your vehicle begins to ll with water, immediately head to
the nearest shore. Get the vehicle out of the water and drain
it by removing both rear drain plugs. Correct the leak before
entering the water again.
Do not leave the vehicle in water for extended periods of
time. Water could enter the axle seals and cause damage
to the axle bearings.