1986 Arctic Cat Pantera

What was your intended objective when you started the build?

I wanted to have the sleds running by next season. Accomplished that earlier than anticipated.

What motivated you to start your project?

I moved to a place with the snowmobile trail 1/4 mile away. I started looking and came across 2 1986 Panteras for $700. Needed some thorough cleaning and rebuilt the engines top end. This is the cleanest one. I started working at Arctic Cat in 1986 and these were the newest sleds out in the field with AFS. The restoration was to be a winter/COVID project. Brought back a ton of great memories.

What was the most unique and creative thing you did to the sled?

The rear suspension outboard shock rubber eyelet spacers were junk and impossible to find replacements. I found some radiator hose that fits nicely instead.

What are you most proud of?

I had forgotten alot about working on these sleds, memory came back the more time I spent. After tearing them down and detailing, reassembling, they run and work!

What do other people say about your snowmobile?

They look great

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Submitted by: Errin K

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Specifics

Classification: Mild
Make, Model & Year: 1986 Arctic Cat Pantera
Time spent: 80
Snowmobile cost: 350
Money spent: 1200
Engine: Spirit 439cc
Intake: Carb
Exhaust: OEM
Drivetrain: OEM
Tunnel/Chassis Modifications: OEM
Suspension: OEM- original 35 year old shocks
Brakes: original OEM
Finish – Paint: Touched up front suspension and skis with Ace Hardware high gloss back
Accessories: n/a

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