I have a 2007 500 auto 4x4 and the only way it will start in the winter is to take the side cover off and pump the primer lever on the front of the carb. When its real cold you are just as likely to break the side cover as get it off. I have an 04 400 auto but it has a choke and will start any time. Can you buy a choke kit or a modification for the primer so you don't have to remove the side cover or do you just rip it off and pitch it? It looks kind of trashy without it. I'm a huge Arctic Cat fan but I'm pretty disappointed with how this one handles winter.

 

you can give the throttle a few taps and youll get the same affect as the primer on the carb. maybe your carb needs a cleaning. try a can of seafoam it will help. maybe your electric choke is sticking. it couldnt hurt to take the carb apart and give it a bath but try the seafoam first

 

I believe there is a "plug in" kit that like the type used by autos. That would help a lot.

 

As for the side panels. put a little grease on the pins that hold them in place it makes it a lot easer to remove them. Vaseline work good.