5 Common Arctic Cat 650 V2 Problems (How to Fix Them Easily)

The Arctic Cat 650 V2 is an ATV, powered by a V-twin engine. This is ideal for people looking for vintage decor with the smooth, reliable power delivery of a V-twin.

The most common Arctic Cat 650 V2 problems are not running, issues with the engine, carburetor fuel leaking, timing problems, and low compression.

However, if you follow the steps listed below, these issues are relatively simple to fix. 

In this article, the topics mentioned above will be explored.

Arctic Cat 650 V2 Problems 

Users of the Arctic Cat 650 V2 frequently complain about various issues. 

2005 Arctic Cat 650 V2 Problems

Here are some of them along with their solutions.

1. ATV Won’t Run

Many Arctic Cat 650 V2 ATVs from the 2005 model year have received complaints that their starting systems are problematic. 

The broken or clogged starting gear may be to blame for this. The starting gear may not be effectively interacting with the engine’s flywheel if it is blocked or damaged. 

Additionally, the timing chain is in charge of ensuring that the engine’s valves open and close at the proper times, so if it malfunctions, the engine won’t run correctly or might not start at all. 

Fix

Remove the starter motor and thoroughly examine the starter gear. then carefully examine the gear for abrasions or damage. 

You can use a solvent or degreaser to clean it if it is blocked with debris.

The timing chain cover, which is situated on the front of the engine, must be examined. It is preferable to install a new timing chain if the existing one is old.

To make sure the engine is operating correctly after installing the new timing chain, the timing must be changed.

2. Engine Problems

It has been reported that the Arctic Cat 650 V2 from 2006 has an engine problem. 

There are a variety of potential causes for the engine issue. 

However the following are the most frequent ones:

  • Low coolant levels or a malfunctioning cooling system
  • Inadequate maintenance
  • Poor fuel quality
  • Deterioration of engine parts
  • Damaged or misaligned engine parts
  • Bad riding practice

If the engine in your Arctic Cat 650 V2 is having problems, you could notice any of the following symptoms:

  • Loss of power or acceleration
  • Overheating
  • Starting problems
  • Strange noises
  • Excessive exhaust smoke

Fix

Initially examine your Arctic Cat 650 V2’s fuel system. This could be caused by an unclean carburetor, an improperly functioning fuel pump, or a blocked fuel filter. 

These parts might need to be cleaned or replaced to fix the issue. 

Don’t forget to check the fuel’s quality. It’s preferable to switch to a higher-quality fuel. In order to maintain the fuel level, the fuel level must be regularly monitored.

Check the alignment of the engine’s parts. If you don’t know how to read the manual’s instructions.

3. Carburetor Fuel Leaks

Arctic Cat 650 V2 owners from the 2004 model year the ATV have complained about the defective carburetor. 

These factors might cause fuel leaks:

  • Float valve malfunction
  • Dirt or debris in the carburetor
  • Incorrect fuel level
  • Clogged fuel lines
  • Faulty carburetor needle and seat

There are some indicators that can help you identify the issue, like:

  • Fuel dripping or pouring out of the overflow tube
  • A strong smell of fuel
  • Poor fuel efficiency
  • Difficulty starting the engine
  • Rough idling or stalling
  • Smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe

Fix

Remove the ATV’s carburetor to inspect it for wear or corrosion. Then, examine the float valve on the Arctic Cat 650 V2. 

Afterwards, check to see if the float, needle, and seat are worn or damaged. 

Use a carburetor cleaner to remove all the debris. Replace any component you discovered to be defective.

4. Timing Issues

The 2005 Arctic Cat 650 V2 has several timing concerns, which is something customers have complained about. 

The causes of this problem are,

  • Lack of maintenance
  • High mileage
  • Contamination in the engine 
  • Improper installation of the chain
  • Overheating
  • Tensioner failure

Several signs of this problem include;

  • Engine misfiring
  • Decreased acceleration
  • Engine stalling
  • Rough idling

    Fix

Start by looking at the timing chain and any related parts. Inspect the camshaft, crankshaft, and timing chain tensioner. 

If necessary, clean them or replace them.

It’s crucial to replace the timing chain with a high-quality OEM (original equipment manufacturer) timing chain if it turns out to be the issue.

Additionally, look for a tensioner of higher quality. 

It is in charge of maintaining the timing chain’s tightening and ensuring proper alignment with the camshaft and crankshaft.

5. Low Compression

Customers have complained about low compression issues with the Arctic Cat 650 V2 from 2004. 

The frequent causes for this are,

  • Worn piston rings
  • Faulty valve seals
  • Damaged cylinder walls
  • Blown head gasket
  • Incorrect valve timings
  • Broken timing belt
  • Carbon buildup

These regular warning signs will enable you to locate the problem more quickly than at normal times. 

  • Hard starting
  • Poor acceleration
  • Engine smoking
  • Engine knocking
  • Increased fuel usage

Fix

You should follow these steps for your Arctic Cat 650 V2 ATV to deal with the low compression issue:

  • Replace or repair worn piston rings
  • Change the damaged valves
  • Replace the Cylinder resurface 
  • Repair the head gasket
  • Reduce carbon buildup
  • Modify the valve’s clearance
  • Change the timing chain

Which Year Arctic Cat 650 V2 Has the Most Problems?

Customers claim that among the various models, the Arctic Cat 650 V2 from 2004 and 2005 is recognized to have the most serious engine issues. 

With the use of sufficient knowledge and assistance from the manuals’ instructions, this problem may be resolved.

Low compression and fuel leaks are just two of the issues plaguing the 2004 Arctic Cat 650 V2. 

Customers claim that the carbon buildup in the carburetor and uneven fuel consumption is to blame for how frequently this issue occurs.

Some customers claim that the 2005 and 2006 Arctic Cat 650 V2 have a timing problem the fact that can be resolved by replacing the timing chain and other pertinent parts.

Tips for Buying a Used Arctic Cat 650 V2

It is best to be well-informed about the engine and carburetor before purchasing a used Arctic Cat 650 V2.

It may have frequent engine and carburetor problems. Examine the condition of the carburetor and the air filter correctly.

Test-drive the Arctic Cat 650 V2 before making a decision. Drive the ATV on various terrain types. This will let you know about any engine or timing problems.

Low compression and electrical difficulties were previously prevalent concerns for the Arctic Cat 650 V2. 

Look for evidence of these problems when checking the ATV, and inquire with the seller about whether they have been resolved.

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