How to Change the Oil in an Arctic Cat ATV

by TJ Hinton

Use Valvoline four-stroke ATV oil in your 2013 Arctic Cat 400 ATV. This oil is formulated to withstand the rigors of use in an air-cooled, roller bearing engine. Automotive-type oils won't hold up to the extreme temperatures and shear pressures generated by this engine, and they will break down prematurely and leave the engine unprotected. Never use synthetic oils in this engine. Synthetic oils prevent the friction necessary to prevent the bearing rollers from hydroplaning, or skidding, in the race. Additionally, engine oil bathes the clutch pack and synthetic oils will make the clutch slip.

Step 1

Locate the hole in the skid plate, just beneath the engine. Position a drain pan under the hole. Using a ratchet and socket, remove the drain plug and allow the oil to drain from the engine.

Step 2

Install a new gasket on the drain plug, and thread the plug in by hand. Torque the drain plug to 12 foot-pounds, using a foot-pound torque wrench and socket.

Step 3

Using a filter wrench, remove the old oil filter. Wipe the filter plate with a clean rag to remove any residual oil or road grime, and ensure that the old gasket came off with the filter.

Step 4

Smear a light coat of fresh oil on the new filter gasket. Spin the filter on until the gasket contacts the plate, then tighten it an additional one-quarter turn. Wipe off any residual oil.

Step 5

Remove the engine oil dipstick cap. Add three quarts of engine oil. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, then turn the engine off and check the oil level, using the dipstick. Add oil as necessary to bring it to the "Full" mark and check the plug and filter for leaks.

Things You'll Need

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