In a significant move impacting the snowmobile industry, Arctic Cat has initiated a recall of approximately 16,200 snowmobiles, citing serious safety concerns. The recall affects several models across the company’s lineup due to a fault in the drive clutch that presents a laceration hazard to users.
Arctic Cat Hazard Alert: Faulty Drive Clutches
The core issue stems from the snowmobile’s drive clutch, which can break and potentially fragment, posing a direct threat of laceration to riders. The defective part could break, allowing fragments to escape through the snowmobile’s protective shielding.
This alarming defect has already led to over 200 reports of drive clutch failures, with six incidents where fragments have struck consumers, including four instances resulting in minor foot and toe injuries.
Recall Scope and Affected Models
The recall encompasses all model year 2017-2021 Arctic Cat 8000 and 9000 series snowmobiles, along with certain 2022 Arctic Cat 8000 series models. The specific vehicles affected have VINs ranging from NT808000 to NT808150 and NT100101 to NT101060. The affected models are notably diverse, including:
- Performance models like the ZR LXR, ZR Sno Pro, and ZR RR.
- Crossover models such as the XF Cross Country and RIOT Crossover.
- Mountain models including the M King Cat and M Hardcore.
- Sport utility models like the Norseman and Norseman X.
Each of these models was sold in various color combinations, prominently featuring the “Arctic Cat” branding on the sides and rear of the vehicle.
Arctic Cat Catalyst 600 Series Snowmobiles, Model Year 2024, have brake lines that contact the brake disc and fracture leading to loss of braking, crashes, and injuries to riders and bystanders. #textron #snowmobile #brake #leakage #crash #injuries #recall pic.twitter.com/1VwujFyElZ
— Dr. Howard Smith Reports (@DrHSmithReports) March 18, 2024
Consumer Safety and Company Response
Arctic Cat has urged consumers to immediately cease using the recalled snowmobiles and contact the company to schedule a free installation of an additional clutch guard. This new component is designed to offer extra protection, potentially deflecting fragments away from the rider should the clutch fail.
Interestingly, Arctic Cat’s recall notice specifies that only snowmobiles with visibly cracked primary clutches will be replaced at no cost, which has raised concerns about the adequacy of visual inspections in identifying all potentially faulty units.
Next Steps for Snowmobile Owners
Owners of potentially affected snowmobiles are advised to check their vehicle’s identification number (VIN), which can be found on the right side of the snowmobile tunnel near the right footrest. Arctic Cat has provided several resources for consumers to confirm whether their snowmobile is included in the recall:
- Telephone assistance is available at 800-279-2281 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday.
- Owners can also email inquiries to [email protected].
- For direct access to recall information, owners can visit Arctic Cat’s official website and navigate to the “Recalls” section.
This recall is a critical reminder of the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and the need for consumers to remain vigilant about the condition of their recreational vehicles. Safety must always be a priority to ensure enjoyable and injury-free experiences in outdoor sporting activities.
