American CV Store

Arctic Cat Prowler Review

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Tue, 31 May 2011 08:59:00 +0000

Faced with competition from the new Polaris Rangers, Arctic Cat has redesigned their Prowler series to be one of the most powerful ATVs on the market. While the original Arctic Cat Prowler was mediocre compared to the other high end vehicles in the market, the new Prowler includes an engine which puts all other vehicles in their place. The new 951cc H2 V-Twin engine gives the Prowler enough power to pull heavy loads even on hills. Along with the improved power, the Prowler also features a higher suspension, 10 inches, and shock absorbers which allow for much smoother driving.

The Arctic Cat Prowler isn't your average vehicle. Because it's produced by Arctic Cat, one can expect top of the line performance. However, it goes beyond that. The Prowler is bigger, badder, and much more powerful than the average ATV. In fact, the vehicle itself is more the size of a tractor than an actual ATV. However, don't be fooled just by its size. This vehicle is able to accelerate quickly to more than 50 miles per hour with its fuel injected engine. The body suspension and enhanced steering allow the rider to easily navigate through any type of terrain. The combination of its size and performance make the Arctic Cat an extremely versatile vehicle. Whether one is planning to climb uphill for recreation, or pull heavy weight for work, the Prowler can effectively handle any type of situation.

Along with the hidden power inside its mechanics, the Arctic Cat Prowler also proudly sports 14 inch steel rim wheels along with a 550 Flat Bed. With these wheels, the Prowler can easily go on rough terrains, making any place accessible. The flat bed itself is a great feature for any farmer or adventurer. Able to carry more than 600 pounds, the flat bed is a useful tool when traveling with a heavy load. Because of its powerful engine, you don't even have to worry about being slowed down by what's in the bed.

Another great feature about the prowler is its stability and smooth performance. Although the engine has enough powerful to propel the vehicle quickly, it produces an extremely low amount of noisy. You could almost say the Arctic Cat Prowler purrs when it's running. Also, the handling is smooth enough that one wouldn't realize they're driving a vehicle weighing half a ton, even around the turns.

The Arctic Cat Prowler is a spectacular vehicle. It has speed, power, and performance worthy of its title as a high end vehicle. Because it was designed by Arctic Cat, you can also bet that the vehicle is guaranteed to satisfy. For a modest price, the Arctic Prowler provides quite the enjoyable ride.

Article Source: Article Base

CV Axle Replacement and Halfshaft Removal - Replace the CV Or the Entire Half Shaft?

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Thu, 26 May 2011 07:33:00 +0000

Changing C.V. (Constant Velocity) axles today is almost as common as doing brake jobs. But some CV axles can be pretty stubborn to remove. In this article learn some of the tricks I've used over the years as a Master Tech to make changing CVs and 1/2 shafts easier. Automotive specialty tools are sometimes needed to make the job easier, I'll discuss some of those and if it is better to replace the entire half shaft, the joint or just the CV boot.

Clicking On Turns

Since you're reading this you may already know that a common sign of a bad CV joint is popping and clicking on turns. A shudder on straight take offs could be a worn inner joint, but this is much less common. Outer joints have the most movement (like on turns), that's why outer boots usually wear more than the inner ones. CV boots are designed to pump grease throughout the joint during movement. Wear that causes outer joints to make noise can be accelerated if the CV boot breaks from dry rot or wear and the lubricating grease is lost. If the CV boot breaks, grease is thrown out of the joint by centrifugal force while driving. Without grease to keep the joint lubricated and cooler, its life is drastically reduced. Also outside elements like moisture and dirt can enter the joint, further reducing its life expectancy. Once they wear, they make a clicking noise upon turns while accelerating. If they are noisy, the 1/2 shaft assembly may be the easiest way to go instead of replacing just the joint. CV 1/2 shaft prices have came down in the last decade and are more readily available than they used to be.

Removing the Half Shaft Assembly

The job of removing half shafts on most cars is mostly the same.

1. Remove the big nut that holds the joint to the wheel hub.
2. It may be necessary to unbolt or un-clip the brake hose to prevent stretching it when removing the axle.
3. The steering knuckle (where the brake rotor mounts), must either be loosened at the strut mount or at the lower ball joint to allow the shaft to slip out of the hub. Choose the easiest!
4. The inner CV will either be held into the transmission by bolts or with a retaining clip (the clip is not visible).
5. If there are no bolts on the inner joint, in most cases it will need to be pried out with a pry bar.
6. Alternatively a slide hammer with a C.V. joint puller can be used to remove the inner joint from the transmission.

Inspecting and Replacing Boots

You may be able to detect and replace worn boots before damage is done to the C.V. joint. If the boot has dry rot and is about to crack or has just recently split . And the CV joint doesn't make any noises yet, it has been caught it in time. The CV half shaft assembly can be removed and just the boot can be replaced with new grease of course. The CV boot kit also comes with two clamps and special grease. It is less expensive to re-boot a joint, but it is a little more labor intensive. On cars that I was familiar with, many times I changed the CV boot without taking the shaft completely out of the car. Usually though, the shaft is removed and placed in a vise to be worked on. The old boot is cut away to help reveal what type of retaining clip is holding the joint onto the 1/2 shaft.

When a cleaner is used, like brake clean and the joint is angled it's easier to see the clip. The joint may need to be turned while kept on an angle to see the clip. Most either require lock ring pliers to spread the lock ring or the joint can be struck sharply with a hammer (care must be taken not to damage the cage). If you have doubt on what type of retainer you are working with, consult a service manual for your specific model. Be aware that the ball bearings can fall out when the joint is off the shaft and the cage is turned sideways depending on the type it is. After cleaning and drying with compressed air, the grease bag can be cut on the corner and the grease is squeezed into the center of the joint. It's common to force out some of the old grease that was trapped while doing this. Scoop up and discard the old grease that may ooze out. Put the boot and joint back on the shaft by spreading the clip or tapping lightly with a brass hammer. Special CV joint boot clamp tools will be needed to tighten the bands properly. There are two basic types of clamps. There is a type that will be crimped with boot clamp pliers. The other type requires a banding tool, this type is wound and cranked tight using the same motion as you would with a can opener.

A common mistake is damaging the output seal in the transmission when removing or re-installing the CV axles. If the seal is damaged, transmission fluid will leak. Be careful to center the inner joint when putting it back in. Also a mistake that is made even by professionals is to either break the cir-clip that holds the axle in the transmission or to not install the axle completely IN. It is normal to feel a little movement in and out when pushing and pulling the inner joint when it is properly installed. If the retaining clip is broken or not fully inserted, the shaft can slip out enough that the car will not move! Also if tapping the shaft back into the transmission, be careful not to damage the outer threads. Remember if this is your first axle job, don't hesitate to have a buddy with experience on call!

Article Source: Ezine Article

ATV Wheels For Outdoor Adventures

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Mon, 23 May 2011 12:06:00 +0000

ATV wheels are an important part of the ATV experience as you want the right wheels for the courses that you are going on. You can buy these wheels at a store that sells ATV equipment or you can find the wheels online or in a catalog for ATV parts. The vehicles are little as compared to a car or even some motorcycles and need the right wheels to function properly and for safety purposes, as well. Since they are little they can oftentimes go out in the wilderness or areas that a car or motorcycle may not be able to go into safely. If they have the wrong wheels they risk being unsafe and getting damaged, as well.

Having the right ATV wheels will allow you to go places in the wilderness or in areas that may be considered not safe for people or for vehicles. They will make it over rough patches and areas that are not typically traveled upon. Depending on where you want to go with the ATV will also help you choose the wheels that are right for your journey. Take time to look at different websites and what they mention as the choices for the trips you are planning on taking.

You can also look on websites or in stores for ATV wheels that will be your style, as well. Sometimes you want the more traditional wheels just to get you where you want to go and other times you will want to make your ATV yours with the design that best suits you in terms of the wheels. Research brands that are well known for their quality when looking for wheels so that you can go where you need to go without a hitch. Take time to read reviews and shop around in order to find the best deal for your wheels.

The wheels not only make the vehicle but will essentially help you get to where you need to get so long as you get the right wheels for the journey. Consider talking to people that have ATV's in order to find what wheels they would recommend for you and how much they paid for the wheels. There are multiple websites and stores devoted to selling of these wheels. Take time to shop around and educate yourself on the best brands so you can get the best quality and the best price. Also remember to have fun and be safe riding your ATV.

Article Source: Ezine Article

Some Uses of Heavy Duty Axles

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 07:36:00 +0000

Heavy duty axles may not be used in regular automobiles but they are very common in larger vehicles. In today’s post we will go over some applications of these axles in order to inform readers about the how much they are utilized today.

1. ATV Vehicles – Prime Benefactor

ATV vehicles are mainly for entertainment purposes. People use them for fun and recreation and drive them mainly on rough and uneven surfaces. These vehicles rely heavily on heavy duty axles to maneuver the terrains.

2. UTV Vehicles – Not Far Behind

Another application of these axles can be found in UTVs. Many of them can accommodate more people, meaning more weight which translates to increased pressure on the axles and the CV joints. Therefore these vehicles specifically use heavy axles to get the job done.

3. Four Wheel Drive Vehicles – More Torque, Bigger Axle

Most vehicles are two wheel drive but larger ones such as SUVs and some mini vans require more torque and power to operate. Heavy duty quad axles are specifically designed for such vehicles and they are instrumental in keeping the entire lower chassis together.

4. Trucks, Trailers and Heavy Machinery – Can’t Function Without

Almost every vehicle involved to construction whether it be civil, mechanical or aeronautical uses Quad axles. Due to the specific nature of their job requirement, they rely on stronger, larger and more durables axles that can withstand their vigorous daily routine.

The above mentioned four categories are a broad representation of heavy duty axles in today’s world. Whether for work or for leisure, they are actively doing their part in both realms and will continue to be an integral part of the automotive industry in the future.

ATV Maintenance with CV Joint Rebuild Kit

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 12:43:00 +0000

ATV enthusiasts and mechanics use CV Joint rebuild kits to properly rebuild, CV Axles and CV Joints. A CV joint is a very important component of the ATV or any vehicle for that matter. It is essentially a collection of bearings and cages which allows the axle to rotate and change lengths accordingly. The CV boot holds together the inside parts of the CV joint and prevents dirt from getting in and grease from getting out.

With the passage of time, these boots can become cracked or torn thereby causing dirt to get inside. At this point, the axle can either be replaced if it indeed has suffered irreversible damage or be rebuilt by using a CV Joint rebuild kit which essentially replaces some of the damaged parts.

All CV Joint rebuild kits come with the following:

· Race – Rebuild kit parts

· Cage – Rebuild kit parts

· Ball Bearings – Used in CV Boot installation and in securing the boot and the CV joint

· Heavy Duty Boot Kit –A new CV boot to replace the damaged one

· User Manuals – Step by step instruction on installation as well as preventative measures.

ATVs are generally used vigorously on rough terrains. In light of that one might assume that once a component of an ATV is broken, it most likely needs to be replaced. Not necessarily. A malfunctioning CV boot will give noticeable signs before it cracks. A timely inspection under the chassis of the ATV can help catch the problem beforehand and prevent any further damage.

A Broken Halfshaft Axle – Your Options

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 04:45:00 +0000

So you got yourself a broken halfshaft axle and you are now pondering whether to just chunk it or could it be of any further use to you? Well a broken axle will surely be of no use to your rig, however instead of tossing it, try the following things. It may be worth your while.

· Get the Halfshaft Axle Inspected

Don’t make the final judgment on your own. Get an expert opinion. Take it to a truth worthy mechanic or your local ATV parts dealer. They have certified technicians that will accurately tell you whether there is anything that can be done about the axle.

· It Might be Repairable

A broken axle doesn’t always mean it’s physically damaged or broken into pieces. Some broken axles can be repaired. Unless the damage is obvious, an ATV technician will be instrumental in determining just that.

· Try the Junk Yard

In the event the axle is confirmed to be broken and of no use, hope is not lost. Try the local junk yards. They will gladly pay some money for the broken equipment. The axle may not find its way back on an ATV but it can be further broken down and its remaining working parts can be salvaged into something more useful.

Junk yards are always on the lookout for such equipment and while they will not pay much, it is still better than just tossing the axle altogether.

If you have a damaged halfshaft axle and are unsure of what to do with it, try the above mentioned tips. Broken equipment or not, there is always something that you can do in order to get the most out of ATV parts.

What you Should know about a Suzuki U-Joint

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 06:31:00 +0000

Suzuki makes some of the most fascinating ATVs in the business. They are very popular among ATV enthusiasts. A very important component of the Suzuki ATV is the U-Joint that is used in transmission shafts. In this post we will look at workings of a Suzuki U-Joint and what ATV enthusiasts should know about it.

What Is a U-Joint?

A U-joint is short for Universal Joint and also goes by other name variations such as Hooke’s Joint and Cardan Joint. U-Joints made by Suzuki are no different than any other U-joint used in ATVs. It is a joint in a rigid metallic rod that allows the rod to bend in any given direction. It consists of a pair of hinges that are located close to one another connected by a cross shaft.

What comes with a U-Joint Assembly?

It should be noted that a U-Joint does not come by itself. The following parts come with it.

· U-Joint

· U-Joint Clips

· Case hardened Steel Caps

· Zert Fitting (depending on the series)

Original Vs Generic Parts

Buying original parts directly from the manufacturer or from an authorized dealer is the safest bet when it comes to ATVs. Granted that generic parts exist that are cheaper and more readily available, they come at the cost of durability and functionality, two very important ATV variables.

Suzuki U-Joints are used in both front and back axles as well as in Quad series. This small part is a key component in ATV maneuverability. If you are shopping for a U-Joint, your local authorized ATV parts dealer would be the best place to start.

5 Common Mistakes People make with ATV Boots

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 05:53:00 +0000

Oftentimes, people who have ATVs do not have a firm understanding of its mechanics. When they go out to purchase something for their ATV or make repairs themselves, they end up making the mistakes and cost themselves money in the long run. One such case is with ATV boots and here we will go over some mistakes people make with them.

1. CV Boots for Automobiles can work on ATVs – This is a big misunderstanding. Even though they look the same as those used for automobiles, they cannot be used interchangeably.

2. Generic ATV Boots Work Just As Good – Another costly mistake. Generic boots are cheap no doubt, but the quality, the material and the engineering used in it doesn’t match those made by original manufactures. They also wear out faster and are more prone to breaks.

3. They Need Not Be Checked – An ATV must be looked after to ensure its functionality. This can be done by performing constant checks on its parts such as ATV boot. If it’s worn out to a significant extent, it’s time to replace it.

4. One Model ATV Boot Fits Them All – There are over a dozen ATV manufacturers and they each use their own versions of an ATV boot. Some people may get away with it by using CV boots from one model into another however the risk remains. Just because it fits, doesn’t mean it’s the right one.

5. A Used ATV Boot Works Just as Good – Not quiet. It depends on how used the ATV boot is to begin with. A used boot will likely have some tears in it. Using it will suffice for the time being but eventually it will give out much sooner than a new one would.

Keeping the above points in mind, ATV users should be able to make the right choice when it comes to purchasing ATV boots. It’s always best to do your research and get it done right the first time around.

How to Detect and Change a Faulty Grizzly 660 Joint?

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Mon, 17 May 2010 11:46:00 +0000

CV Joint is the primary component of an ATV. Just like any other part of an automobile or a machine, the CV Joint may experience wear and tear over time and will either need to be repaired or replaced. The procedure itself is very straightforward but it does require some skill to accomplish.

Signs of a Faulty Honda Grizzly 660 CV Joint

The following are a few common signs of a CV joint giving out in a Honda CV 660. They are actually common to all ATV and not just that specific model:

· Vibration during acceleration

· A shudder or knocking sound during acceleration

· A popping or clicking noise when turning

· Tires wobbling while accelerating

Changing a Grizzly 660 CV Joint

First and foremost, the defective CV joint must be removed from the shaft. The outer CV Joint on Honda Grizzly 660 models is usually held on the shaft by a lock which can be somewhat difficult to remove.

The following steps should be taken in order to remove and change the CV Joint:

· Disassemble the CV joints by titling the inner race to one side

· Insert a dowel into the spines of the inner shaft and tilt as far as possible to expose one of the balls.

· Use a screw driver to remove it from its cage it.

· Tilt the inner race to the opposite side to expose the other ball and remove it as well. The CV joint can now be safely removed

· Install the new CV joint and follow the steps in reverse.

The Honda Grizzly 660 is a very dependable ATV model in the sense that it has a solid structure and its CV Joints rarely go bad. In any event, riders should be knowledgeable in all aspects of their ATV and be prepared for anything.

Protect your ATV’s CV Joints

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 13:48:00 +0000

A CV joint, short for constant velocity joint is an integral component of a vehicle. These joints prevent knocking and ensure we have a safe and smooth riding experience.

Not many things can go wrong that would warrant a replacement for a CV joint. The most probable cause is just normal wear and tear over time. However, there are certain signs one should look out for in order to stay on top of things. Two things worthy of mention here are bad grease and loss of lubrication. Both are bad for the CV Joint and are indications that the joint itself is failing. One way of being 100% sure is to put your ATV in reverse gear and drive around in circles. If the noise gets louder, that means you need to replace the CV joint as soon as possible.

And bad CV joint will make some noise and determining which means what would help you zero in on the problem. For example if you feel a vibration while driving forward, that is an indicator that the inboard plunge joints are not working properly. If the vibration increases with speed, then that means the tires are not properly balanced.

If you own a front wheel drive ATV like a Honda or Yamaha, it would be a good idea to check the boots near the CV joints for cracks and punctures on a regular basis. Also, check for missing or loose clamps and fix them accordingly. Running the ATV with a damaged boot is certainly not advisable as this will surely cause damage to it. If you sense something is wrong, park the ATV immediately and get it fixed before getting on it again.

Great Tips on How to Buy ATV Axles on Bargain Price

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 05:26:00 +0000

Rapid decisions do not work when it comes to buying ATVs and their parts. It is necessary to find a professional ATV axle part manufacturer, and keep in mind that the best can be chosen only after careful research. This is because as an ATV owner you know your experience as a rider, usage, budget and needs.

If you carry out some research you will be able to get some affordable deals for ATV axles.

Online sites offer come great prices for ATV parts and with the right research you will be able to get a deal that is hard to beat. The AmericanCVstore.com is one such example. It offers the largest line of new automotive axles for front wheel drives. You should also know what you need or ask for help so that the store can advise you of the best course of action. You need a supplier that has good knowledge and provides dedicated service.

ATV CV Boots

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:56:00 +0000

DIY approaches do not always work when it comes to ATVs – All Terrain Vehicles. New riders are often unaware of the fact that the ATV boots get damaged, causing dirt to accumulate as the grease continues to decline. Riders may continue driving until vehicle stops functioning.

The CV Joints or constant velocity joints used in ATVs and front wheel drive vehicles are protected with a rubber or plastic boot and greased to reduce friction. When they function properly, they allow power transmission, without acceleration in friction.

Depending on the nature of the damage and the time it takes to detect the problem, the ATV CV joint or shaft may require replacement. The maintenance of the ATV is essential if the ATV is to remain functional. ATV owners must be aware of potential problems, or ensure that they continue with monthly maintenance so as to avoid potential hazards in the future.

ATV CV Joints

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 11:47:00 +0000

It’s justifiable to say that if you are an owner of an ATV – All Terrain Vehicle and passionate about what you own, then you are responsible for the upkeep of the vehicle. However, for first time owners it clearly takes more than a while to understand the ATV and the problems that may be associated with it over time.
Equally important is to understand that ATV CV joints need to be lubricated and a loss of lubrication should be avoided.

This can only be done with scheduled regular checks. Regular maintenance would also ensure you have a smooth ride every time you get on the ATV. Some problems can be handled simply, like you can apply fresh grease to the joints and this would reduce problems. However, more severe problems can arise when joints or boots breaks. This thing is if the seat is as hard as a rock ---at least you can make sure the ride won’t be.

Riding over logs and rocks can be fun if you do the right inspection and get great service for your ATV.

ATV CV Joints

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 05:23:00 +0000

Maintaining an All Terrain Vehicle [ATV] can be a one man job if you have the know-how. The suspension is the part that sustains the most when the vehicle is driven through rough terrains.

CV Joints or ball joints are placed inside the hubs located beside the axles and behind the wheels. They have direct contact with the wheels and help in rotation as well, so they get beaten by the terrain the most.

American CV is one of the major companies selling ATV pars, CV Joints, axles and other ATV related accessories. They deal in parts from Yamaha, axles from Kawasaki, axles from Polaris, and many other accessories.

Polaris ATV Axle

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 05:17:00 +0000

ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) is a 4 wheeled bike that can be driven anywhere, including rocks, pavement or slippery terrains.

Driving in such terrains causes the axles on the machine to be treated very roughly. And that’s why it becomes necessary to maintain the suspension, especially the axles. The axles look like shafts coming in from the drive train to the wheel hubs. They are the key, to the power on the wheels because they move the wheels themselves.

Polaris ATV axles are one of the best in the market. They are made to endure the rough terrains and can withstand a high intake of bumps and jolts for the drivers. Polaris atv axles are also available for different models of the quad bike and are available online at companies like American CV who deal with ATV axles as well as other ATV accessories.

Yamaha Axles

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 04:42:00 +0000

There are different sized ATVs and various companies make their spare parts. Yamaha is also one of the biggest names in the vehicle industry, be it an ATV, street bike or passenger bike.

Yamaha is one of the top selling manufacturers of ATV’s around the world. They provide many accessories and spare parts for use with the ATV and have made a name globally due to the variety of products they have in the market. Yamaha is also a large producer of Axles for ATVs. They provide axles for different sorts of ATV’s for e.g.

• Big bear 400 4x4

• Grizzly 350 4x4

• Grizzly 450 4x4

• Grizzly 660 4x4

• Grizzly 700 4x4 etc

Yamaha also provides ball joints for ATV’s, and American CV is one of the top dealers in Yamaha ATV spare parts.

Buying Tips for ATV Axles

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 07:55:00 +0000

ATV is short for All Terrain Vehicles, which are also known as Quad-bikes. These buggies are owned by people of all ages and are fun to drive.

One of the main parts needed for an ATV is its axle, and because it is an all terrain vehicle, the axle has to be strong and durable for the rough terrain. There are many different companies offering Axles for ATVs. So when you go online look for the following:

· Always remember the axle type, code number and size when you go to buy a new one.

· Always know what you are buying. Buying an axle isn’t very hard, yet, buying the right one can become a challenge.

ATV Axles can be bought in pairs, it’s always good to have a spare with you, especially when you riding an All Terrain Vehicle through different types of paths.