Driving the Vehicle Once the engine is warm, the vehicle is ready to be driven. Parking Parking involves following the previous rules for braking; then: 1. With the engine idling, press the foot brake pedal to apply the brake; then select the appropriate operating range and/or direction with the shift lever. 1. After the vehicle stops, shift into park. 2. Turn off the ignition. 2. Release the foot brake pedal and press the accelerator to slowly add power to start moving. 3. If you have to park on a hill, block the wheels on the downhill side. 3. To slow down or stop, release the accelerator and press the foot brake pedal as necessary to slow or stop the vehicle.
Basic Turns Steering effort is at its lowest in two-wheel drive (2WD). Greater effort is needed when in four-wheel drive (4WD). The greatest effort is needed when in four- wheel drive and the differential (if equipped) is locked. Braking/Stopping Always allow plenty of room and time to stop smoothly. Sometimes quick stops are inevitable, so always be prepared. Whether you’re stopping slowly or stop- ping quickly, do this: Slow down before entering a turn. The basic turning technique is to drive at low speed and gradually adjust the amount of steering to suit the driving surface. Do not make sudden sharp turns on any sur- face.
Refer to the sub-sections Driving Uphill, Driving Downhill, Crossing Obstacles, Driving in Reverse, Skidding or Sliding, Crossing Water, or Crossing Roads for more information. 1. Release the accelerator; then press the foot brake pedal to apply the brake. 2. If the wheels lock, release them for a second; then apply them again. On surfaces such as ice, mud, or loose gravel, pump the brake pedal rapidly. If your vehicle ever skids sideways during a turn, steer in the direction of the skid. Also, avoid hard braking or accelerating until you have regained directional control. 3. Never “ride” the brake.
Even main- taining minimal pressure on the brake pedal will cause the brake pads to drag on the disc and may overheat the brake fluid. ! WARNING ! WARNING Use care in turns - turning the steer- ing wheel too far or too fast can result in loss of control or a rollover. Exces- sive speed, driving aggressively, or making abrupt maneuvers, even on flat, open areas, can cause loss of control, tipping, or rollover. Uneven terrain, rough terrain, soft surfaces, slippery surfaces, and paved sur- faces can also cause a loss of control or rollover in a turn. On loose or soft surfaces, allow yourself more time and distance to turn and slow down.
Excessive repetitive use of the hydraulic brake for high speed stops will cause overheating of the brake fluid and premature brake pad wear which will result in an unexpected loss of brakes. ! WARNING Use only Arctic Cat approved brake fluid. Never substitute or mix differ- ent types or grades of brake fluid. Brake loss can result. Check brake fluid level and pad wear before each use. Brake loss can result in serious injury or death. Driving Uphill Always drive straight up the hill and always avoid hills steeper than 15°. 1. Keep both hands on the wheel. 20