OPERATOR’S MANUAL MODELS - S, SN, BF, RB, CB from 1997 Ontario Drive & Gear Limited P.O. Box 280, 220 Bergey Court New Hamburg, Ontario N0B 2G0 Telephone: (519) 662-2840, Fax: (519) 662-2421 www.argoatv.com MANUAL NO. 671-04 Rev.
A MESSAGE FROM THE PEOPLE WHO BUILT YOUR ARGO Thank you for selecting an ARGO amphibious, off-road utility vehicle! Ontario Drive & Gear Limited has been building ARGO vehicles since 1967. By listening carefully to our customers and responding to their needs, we have been constantly improving the ARGO and will continue to do so. Over twenty-five thousand ARGO vehicles have provided reliable service all over the world.
NOTE Read this manual before you operate your ARGO. It contains safe operating instructions and warns the user about potential hazards that can result in personal injury. Warnings are identified in the text by the following symbol: WARNING The manual also contains operating cautions that can prevent damage to the vehicle. Cautions are identified in the text by the following symbol: CAUTION This manual is based on the latest product information available at the time of printing.
PREFACE This manual describes the controls, operation and basic maintenance procedures for all VANGUARD, VANGUARD2, BIGFOOT, RESPONSE and CONQUEST models of the ARGO from date of printing. Please take the time to read this manual carefully, for your safety and that of others. By following these instructions, you will ensure extended, trouble free operation of your vehicle.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 PAGE GENERAL INFORMATION 1.1 AMPHIBIOUS OPERATION ........................................................................... 1.2 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES ................................................................... 1.3 WIND CHILL FACTOR ................................................................................... 1.4 MODEL IDENTIFICATION ............................................................................ 1.
TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 6.0 PAGE OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION 6.1 ENGINE OIL INFORMATION 6.1.1 CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL LEVEL ........................................... 17 6.1.2 RECOMMENDED ENGINE OIL ....................................................... 17 6.1.3 CHANGING ENGINE OIL ................................................................. 18 Draining the Engine Oil ....................................................................... 18 Refilling the Engine ......................
TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION PAGE 7.2.5 7.2.6 7.2.7 7.2.8 IDLER CHAIN .................................................................................. 27 Idler Chain Adjustment ..................................................................... 28 Idler Chain Replacement ................................................................... 28 Removal of Idler Chains ................................................................... 28 Installation of Idler Chains .........................................
TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION PAGE 10.4 10.5 10.6 10.7 10.8 10.9 10.10 10.11 10.12 10.13 10.14 10.15 10.16 10.17 10.18 10.19 10.20 10.21 10.22 10.23 10.24 10.3.1 Operating Precautions ................................................................................... 39 10.3.2 Standard Tracks ............................................................................................. 40 10.3.3 Super Tracks ..................................................................................................
SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION 1.1 AMPHIBIOUS OPERATION 1.3 WIND CHILL FACTOR All models of the ARGO are amphibious and capable of traversing calm water. Special operating procedures and safety precautions must be observed before entering the water and during amphibious operation. Do not drive your vehicle into water until you have read Section 5.6 Amphibious Operation. Why does it feel much colder outdoors on a windy day than when there’s no wind, especially in winter? 1.
SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION ARGO 6 x 6 VANGUARD (S) ARGO 6 x 6 VANGUARD2 (SN) Serial Number: Engine: S-6999 Briggs & Stratton Vanguard, 480 cc (16 h.p.) V-Twin, 4 cycle, air cooled Transmission: 2 forward speeds, neutral and reverse Clutch: Variable speed torque converters Fuel Capacity: 32 litres (7.0 Imp. Gal., 8.4 U.S. Gal.) Steering/Brakes: Mechanical, 9" disc with holding brake system Drive Chains: Double RC-50 roller chain Electrical: 12 volt D.C.
SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION 1.
SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION 1.7 INFORMATION LABELS There are labels on all models which indicate operating hazards and provide special operating instructions. Information about the use of the holding brake system, the use of the vehicle in water, correct fueling procedures and placement of the floorpans has been provided on distinctive coloured labels fastened to the various locations on the Argo. Figure 1.
SECTION 2 GENERAL OPERATING INFORMATION 2.1 NEW VEHICLE “BREAK-IN” PROCEDURE 2.2 PRE-OPERATION CHECKS To obtain long term, trouble free service from your vehicle, observe the following break-in guidelines: Carefully follow the engine manufacturer’s recommended pre-operation/daily checks as well as the following: 1. Vary the speed of the vehicle for the first tank of fuel. Avoid full throttle operation during break-in period. 1.
SECTION 2 GENERAL OPERATING INFORMATION 4. Do not mount any heavy fixtures to the upper body without support to the vehicle frame. The added weight may cause body deformation that could result in the tires rubbing through the body. The fuel filler neck and fuel cap are located on the right side of the vehicle behind the driver’s seat. Replace the fuel cap if fuel leakage occurs, or if moisture is detected in the fuel. Use ARGO Part No. 126-46 fuel cap.
SECTION 3 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 3.1 BRAKES AND STEERING The right and left steering levers are used to turn and stop the vehicle when it is moving forward or in reverse. When the right steering lever is pulled back, the vehicle turns to the right (Figure 3-1). When the left steering lever is pulled back, the vehicle turns to the left (Figure 3-2). To stop the vehicle, pull both steering levers back evenly (Figure 3-3). The ARGO is a skid steer vehicle.
SECTION 3 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 3.3 HOLDING BRAKE SYSTEM - VANGUARD 3.5 STARTING PROCEDURE The VANGUARD has a holding brake lever installed at the base of the left hand steering lever. WARNING Never start or run the engine in a closed building or confined area. Engine exhaust gases contain poisonous carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is odourless, colourless and can cause serious personal injury or death. WARNING The holding brake is not a parking brake.
SECTION 3 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 5. Release the key as soon as the engine starts: the key will automatically return to the “RUN” position. NOTE 6. Release the twist grip control and allow the engine to come to an idle. NO MANUAL STARTING PROCEDURE IS AVAILABLE FOR THE CONQUEST. 7. Push the choke in halfway after the engine starts, and push it in all the way as the engine warms up. 3.8 SELECTING AND CHANGING TRANSMISSION GEARS 8.
SECTION 3 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 2. After the engine has idled down completely, lift up on the gear shift lever and move it with a quick movement to the selected gear. 3.9 HEADLIGHTS All ARGO vehicles are equipped with 2 headlights that are operated through the dash mounted light switch. To turn the lights on, pull the light switch out. NOTE: You will find it easier to engage high gear if the gear shift is first moved to reverse (REV), then directly over to HIGH with one quick movement.
SECTION 4 DRIVING PROCEDURES a series of short turns. Hold the steering lever against the dash between turns. Riding the brakes while making turns will result in excessive heat, brake fade and lead to premature brake wear. 4.1 DRIVING STRAIGHT AHEAD Shift the transmission into LOW or HIGH. Hold both steering levers straight ahead against the dash (See Figure 4-1). Turn the throttle twist grip slowly until the clutch system engages and the vehicle moves forward. Figure 4-2.
SECTION 4 DRIVING PROCEDURES WARNING Do not push against the firewall with your knees.
SECTION 5 DRIVING PROCEDURES IN UNUSUAL CONDITIONS 5.1 REMOTE AREA USE 5.
SECTION 5 DRIVING PROCEDURES IN UNUSUAL CONDITIONS 5.5 SIDE SLOPE OPERATION 6. Care must be taken when encountering submerged obstacles that may upset the vehicle. Do not drive your vehicle across the side of a hill. Side slope operation greatly increases the risk of rolling the vehicle over sideways. Observe the following safety precautions BEFORE entering the water: Prolonged side slope operation may cause engine damage. Observe the engine angle of operation limitations in Section 5.2. 1.
SECTION 5 DRIVING PROCEDURES IN UNUSUAL CONDITIONS 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 floating evenly on the water, turn the throttle twist grip to increase speed. Use only part throttle when traveling through water. Full throttle only results in excessive turbulence, not higher speeds.
SECTION 5 DRIVING PROCEDURES IN UNUSUAL CONDITIONS Do not mount an outboard motor on the vehicle unless the special bracket is used. Damage to the vehicle will occur if an outboard motor is mounted directly on the vehicle body. Before venturing out onto ice-covered bodies of water, it is extremely important to: • Check the ice thickness and condition to be sure it will WARNING • Gasoline is extremely flammable and can explode if ignited. Fill outboard motor fuel tanks outside of the vehicle.
SECTION 6 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION 6.1 ENGINE OIL INFORMATION 6.1.1 Checking the Engine Oil Level Check the engine oil level each day before operating the engine. To check the oil during an operating period, shut the engine off, let it cool down and allow the oil time to drain into the sump before checking the oil level. Position the vehicle so the engine is level. Figure 6-2. Dipstick “A” and oil filler “B” location KAWASAKI engine The BRIGGS & STRATTON VANGUARD (Figure 6.
SECTION 6 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION Kawasaki API Service Class SD, SE or SF NOTE Ambient Temperature -20 C -10 C 0 C 10 C 20 C 30 C 40 C SAE40 There is limited space between the engine and power pack frame. Cut down an empty plastic container to the correct height so it will fit under the engine oil drain. Make sure the container will hold the amount of oil in the engine.
SECTION 6 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION 6.2.2 Changing the Transmission Oil Replace the fuel filter after every 250 hours of operation or once a year. To replace the filter, loosen the gear clamps with a slot screw driver and pull the rubber fuel lines off of the filter. Install the new filter with the flow arrow pointing toward the engine. Tighten the clamps securely. Start the engine and check for fuel leaks.
SECTION 6 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION Do NOT spray lubricant onto the drive belt, brake disc or clutch faces. Allow the lubricant to dry before using the vehicle. If the lubricant is not dry, use of the vehicle will attract dirt and cause damage to the clutch components. Refer to Section 7.2.3 of this manual for drive chain removal and re-installation instructions. A complete service of the clutch units is required after every 250 hours of operation.
SECTION 6 OIL, FILTER AND LUBRICATION INFORMATION The second or inner grease fitting of the outer axle flange supplies grease directly to the outer axle bearing. Since the bearing is well sealed and packed with grease when manufactured, it requires re-greasing only every 100 hours of operation or before the vehicle is taken out of service for any extended period. Use a pistol grip type grease gun to avoid dislocating the bearing seals due to excessive grease pressure.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 7.1 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 7.1.1 General To prevent damage to the electrical system: • Never weld on the vehicle without first disconnecting both • • positive and negative battery cables. Make sure the part you are welding is properly grounded. Connect battery booster cables properly, positive to positive and negative to negative. Connect negative cable last, disconnect first. Connect switch terminals properly, especially the ground wire. 7.1.2 Battery- ARGO Part No.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION Cleaning the Battery springs from the muffler attached to the tail pipe. Clean the top of the battery every 250 hours with a mixture of baking soda and water. Before cleaning the battery, remove it from the vehicle and make sure the pod vents are in place. Soak a cloth in the soda/water mixture and scrub the top of the battery. After the foaming has stopped, flush with clean water and dry with a clean cloth. 3.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION Figure 7-2. Location of drive clutches and drive belt Figure 7-3. Removing the drive belt Check the drive belt after every 25 hours of operation, or whenever there is a noticeable reduction in clutch performance.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 4. Roll the vehicle until the connecting link on one of the chains is visible. 5. Remove the spring clip from the connecting link as shown in Figure 7-7. Remove the outside plate and tap out the connecting link. The inside plates will be released when the connecting link is removed (Figure 7-8). 6. Remove the chain from the vehicle. 7. Repeat steps 4 to 6 until all drive chains are removed. Figure 7-4.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION Figure 7-7. Removal of the spring clip Figure 7-10. Wear groove on the slider block The chain tensioning system consists of a torsion spring loaded cam assembly with a slider block which takes up the slack on the bottom side of all but the front final drive chains. As the chain wears, the chain tensioning mechanism adjusts semi-automatically.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION Each chain tensioner has a single nylon slider block. Inspect the nylon slider blocks for wear after the first 100 hours and every 50 hours thereafter. Replace the blocks (ARGO Part No. 603-61) when the wear groove, as shown in Figure 7-10, measures 1/4" (6mm). To Replace a Slider Block: 1. Remove the floor pans. 2.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION To check the idler chain adjustment, push the slack side of the chain and measure the amount of chain deflection (Figure 7-15). Adjust the idler chain tension if deflection is more than 3mm (1/8"). 1. Place the gearshift in neutral and roll the vehicle until the connecting link of one of the idler chains is positioned as shown in Figure 7-17. 2. Remove the spring clip from the connecting link. Remove the outside plate and tap out the connecting link.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 7.2.6 TIRE INFLATION Improperly inflated tires can cause the vehicle to pull to one side, requiring constant steering correction. Suggested inflation for the Runamuk 22x10.00-8, Rawhide III 22x11.008 and Rawhide III 25x12.00-9 is between 2.5 to 3.5 psi (17 to 24 kPa). Maximum operating pressure is 5 psi (34 kPa). A special low pressure tire gauge (ARGO Part No. 619-10) is available from your ARGO dealer. 7.2.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 4. Remove the gearshift knob. 5. Remove the 2 firewall retaining bolts with a 3/8" wrench (refer to Section 1.6) 6. Pull the bottom of the firewall back and lift it out of the vehicle. 2. Use another 1/2" open wrench to tighten the outer lock nut to the inner one. 3. Tighten the adjustment lock nut with a 1/2" wrench so it is snug but the bolt can still be turned freely with fingers. 4. Adjust the other brake caliper assembly by repeating steps 1 to 3.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION pop riveting tool to fasten the pad in place. An ARGO dealer will replace brake pads for you. WARNING The use of an improperly adjusted holding brake is a serious safety hazard, and could lead to vehicle damage or personal injury. 1. Pull the left steering lever back. 2. While holding the lever, lift the spring loaded brake lever until it contacts the pin in the steering lever. 3. Release the steering lever, allowing the holding brake lever to lock the left brake on. 4.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION To remove the firewall: 1. Turn the firewall release catch (located at the bottom of the firewall) counter-clockwise 1/4 turn. 2. Using the finger holes, pull the bottom of the firewall back until the top of the firewall is clear of the vehicle dash. 3. Lift the firewall clear of the driving compartment. Brake Pad Inspection Procedure With the firewall removed, both hydraulic brake calipers are visible.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION To replace the firewall: 1. Position the firewall in the driving compartment. 2. Insert the top of the firewall under the vehicle dash into the cavity of the dash brace. 3. Slide the bottom of the firewall forward. Make sure that the side bracket supports mounted on the dashboard stay behind the firewall. 4. Line up the firewall release catch with the mounting clasp on the frame and turn clockwise 1/4 turn to lock. WARNING Do NOT operate the ARGO with the firewall removed.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION 7.4.6 BRAKE COOLING SYSTEM Eight wheel vehicles with hydraulic brakes have a 12 volt fan forcing cool air from outside the engine compartment onto the brake components to protect the system from overheating. Overheating can damage the hydraulic brake components. Make sure the brake cooling fan is operating when the vehicle is being driven. The fan operates when the ignition switch is in the “run” position.
SECTION 7 MAINTENANCE INFORMATION BEFORE EACH USE CHECK COOLANT LEVEL (CONQUEST) CHECK FAN BELT TENSION (CONQUEST) CHECK FUEL LEVEL CHECK TIRE INFLATION CHECK TWIST GRIP THROTTLE OPER. CHECK STEERING LEVER TRAVEL CHECK ENGINE INTAKE/EXH. FOR OBSTR.
SECTION 8 TROUBLE SHOOTING MALFUNCTION (SYMPTOM) PROBABLE CAUSE CORRECTIVE ACTION Electric starter inoperative 1. Loose electrical connections 1. Clean and re-tighten electrical connections 2. Recharge battery or replace as necessary 3. Return the vehicle to an Argo dealer for servicing 2. Battery charge low or dead 3. Faulty starter motor Engine turns over but will not start 1. Engine is cold and choke is not pulled out 2. Fuel tank is empty 3. Blocked fuel or air filter 4.
SECTION 8 TROUBLE SHOOTING MALFUNCTION (SYMPTOM) PROBABLE CAUSE CORRECTIVE ACTION Severe vibration when vehicle is operated 1. Engine loose on mounts 1. Take vehicle to an Argo dealer for service. 2. Same as above. 2. Driver or driven clutch or engine defective 3. Axle bent 4. Wheel rim bent 5. Worn or damaged drive belt Water leaks into lower body Tire leaks air 1. Leak has developed at the axle bearing flange 2. Bearing flange seal has been damaged 3.
SECTION 9 CLEANING AND STORAGE 9.1 CLEANING THE VEHICLE Prepare the Battery for Storage Wash the vehicle body with a household detergent and rinse with water. Flush dirt out of the lower body by using a high pressure sprayer or garden hose after removing the drain plugs. After the bottom of the vehicle is dry, lubricate the drive chains with ARGO chain Lube. Make sure the drain plugs are replaced. Remove the battery from the vehicle. Clean it and charge it with a battery charger.
SECTION 10 ACCESSORY INFORMATION 10.1 GENERAL CAUTION This section deals with accessories that have been specifically designed for the ARGO and can be purchased separately from your dealer. Special operating procedures and safety precautions must be observed before operating or using certain accessories. Only use track segments that show the Argo trademark. Other track systems may fail and damage axles, bearings and the final drive system.
SECTION 10 ACCESSORY INFORMATION 10.4 ICE CLEAT KIT (Part Nos. 625-20 & 825-20) CAUTION ARGO ice cleats are stamped steel cleats that bolt to the outer edges of the Super Track segments to grip on hard pack snow and ice to improve traction and stopping. CAUTION should be observed when operating in winter conditions and a drop in temperature occurs. Snow and slush accumulation in the track could freeze, resulting in damage to the track system.
SECTION 10 ACCESSORY INFORMATION 10.6 OUTBOARD MOTOR SUPPORT (Part No. 618-00) CAUTION The 618-00 outboard motor support mounts in place of the trailer coupler ball to provide support for the tail shaft of any gasoline outboard motor. The 616-16 receiver style trailer hitch is required to accept the 618-00 bracket. If an Argo amphibious trailer must be towed in water, use 618-10 side mount outboard motor bracket instead of 617-00/618-00 combination.
SECTION 10 ACCESSORY INFORMATION Figure 10-2 Double Line 2. Periodically check the winch installation to assure that all bolts are tight. Figure 10.4 Incorrect and correct hook-up 9. 3. DO NOT “move” your vehicle to assist the winch in pulling a load. The combination of the winch and vehicle pulling together could overload the wire rope and the winch itself. It is a good idea to lay a heavy blanket or jacket over the wire rope near the hook end when pulling heavy loads (Figure 10.5).
SECTION 10 ACCESSORY INFORMATION 15. When using your winch to move a load, place the vehicle transmission in neutral, set vehicle parking brake, chock all wheels, and keep the engine running. (1) This is the start of a kink. At this time, the wire rope should be straightened. (2) The wire rope was pulled and the loop has tightened to a kink. The wire rope is now permanently damaged and must be replaced.
SECTION 10 ACCESSORY INFORMATION DO NOT transport the Argo at highway speeds with the windshield upright. For transportation at highway speeds, it is recommended that the vehicle be reversed on the truck or trailer so that the front of the Argo faces to the rear. The windshield should be folded down and secured in place using a rope or a tie down strap. CAUTION The pump is not designed to run dry. Use only when water has collected in the lower body. CAUTION 10.13 HANDRAIL KITS (Part Nos.
SECTION 10 ACCESSORY INFORMATION To fold the convertible top for storage, unzip the side and rear doors and the side panels, lay them aside and unsnap the domes along the front of the roof panel from the windshield frame. Fold the aluminum top frames together and roll the overhead panel around the frames loosely. Then, roll the window panels around the top material so the boot will cover the complete assembly for protection.
SECTION 10 ACCESSORY INFORMATION Do not step on or place loads on the edge of the body over the trailer wheels. This area of the trailer body is intended only as a mud guard. The ROPS has been designed to meet the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Act - Regulation 856 ‘Roll-Over Protection Structures’ for the Province of Ontario, Canada. Follow the instructions listed in Section 6.4.5 of this manual to service the axle bearings.
SECTION 10 ACCESSORY INFORMATION Maximum total vehicle weight must not exceed 1465 lbs. or 665 kg. which means 2 people and 100 lbs. or 46 kg. of cargo in the vehicle. Never attach anything to the Roll Bar other than Ontario Drive & Gear 648-15 Roll Bar specific accessories. The Roll Bar reduces vehicle stability. Always use common sense when traveling over rough terrain. The Roll Bar is designed to reduce the chance of injury. DO NOT rely on it to protect the vehicle occupants from irresponsible driving.
APPENDIX 1 SPECIAL TOOLS 7R VICE GRIP MODIFICATION As detailed in Section 7, a pair of modified 7R Vice Grips is required to hold the ends of the drive chain together while inserting the connecting link. This tool can also be used to hold the ends of the idler chain together while inserting the connecting link. Grind the undercut and sides of the vice grip jaw to fit over 2 chain rollers. The undercut is approximately 1/4" radius as shown.
ARGO New Vehicle Limited Warranty The warranty period is limited to 12 months from the date of retail sale, with the following exceptions: Engine - 24 months from the date of retail sale separately by the engine manufacturer’s service network Exide Battery -12 months free replacement from the date of retail sale by the battery manufacturer’s service network, 25 months total warranty, pro-rated Tires - 3 months from the date of retail sale Ontario Drive & Gear Limited hereby warrants to the original retail p
ARGO RETAILER... Please complete this page at the time of sale to the new owner so your customer has all pertinent information that may be required. ARGO MODEL __________________________________________________ ARGO SERIAL NO. ______________________________________________ ENGINE SERIAL NO. _____________________________________________ TRANSMISSION SERIAL NO.
