A snowmobile track is the heart of your sled’s propulsion system, directly impacting traction, handling, and overall performance. Over time, even the most durable tracks can wear out, suffer damage, or simply no longer meet your riding demands. Knowing when and how to perform a snowmobile track replacement is a vital skill for any serious rider, ensuring both safety and optimal performance on the snow.
This guide provides a detailed walkthrough, helping you tackle the snowmobile track replacement process with confidence.
Understanding When to Perform Snowmobile Track Replacement
Identifying the right time for a snowmobile track replacement can save you from breakdowns and enhance your riding experience. Regular inspection is key to catching issues before they become critical.
Signs Your Snowmobile Track Needs Replacing
Missing Lugs or Paddles: These provide traction, and their absence significantly reduces grip.
Cracks or Tears: Any visible cracks, especially around the track windows or along the length of the track, indicate structural fatigue.
Excessive Wear: If the lugs are significantly worn down or rounded, they won’t grip the snow effectively.
Stretched Track: A track that constantly loses tension, even after adjustment, might be stretched beyond its service limit.
Damaged Reinforcement Rods: Bent or broken internal rods can lead to track failure.
Unusual Vibrations or Noise: These can sometimes signal an unevenly worn or damaged track.
Essential Tools and Materials for Snowmobile Track Replacement
Before you begin the snowmobile track replacement, gather all necessary tools and the new track. Having everything on hand will streamline the process.
Required Tools and Supplies
New snowmobile track (ensure it’s the correct size and pitch for your sled)
Service manual for your specific snowmobile model
Jack or lift stand to safely raise the rear of the snowmobile
Socket set and wrenches (metric and/or standard, as required)
Torque wrench
Breaker bar (for stubborn bolts)
Pry bar or large flathead screwdriver
Grease gun and appropriate grease
Thread locker (blue or red, as specified by manufacturer)
Penetrating oil (for seized bolts)
Cleaning supplies (rags, degreaser)
Safety glasses and gloves
Step-by-Step Snowmobile Track Replacement Guide
Follow these steps carefully to ensure a proper and safe snowmobile track replacement.
1. Preparation and Safety
Always prioritize safety. Park your snowmobile on a flat, stable surface. Chock the front skis to prevent movement.
Lift the Rear: Safely lift the rear of the snowmobile using a jack or lift stand until the track is completely off the ground. Ensure it’s stable.
Remove Belt and Spark Plug Wires: Disconnect the spark plug wires to prevent accidental starting. Remove the drive belt if necessary for access.
Loosen Track Tension: Locate the track tension adjusters at the rear of the skid frame and loosen them completely. This will make removing the old track easier.
2. Removing the Skid Frame (Rear Suspension)
The skid frame must be removed to access and replace the track.
Identify Mounting Bolts: Consult your service manual to locate all mounting bolts for the rear suspension.
Remove Bolts: Carefully remove all mounting bolts. You may need to support the skid frame as you remove the last bolts.
Slide Out Skid Frame: Once all bolts are removed, gently slide the entire skid frame out from under the snowmobile. Set it aside in a clean area.
3. Removing the Old Track
With the skid frame out, the old track can now be removed.
Remove Drive Axle Bearing Retainers: Access the drive axle and remove any bearing retainers or collars that secure it.
Slide Off Track: Carefully slide the old track off the drive sprockets and out from under the tunnel. This might require some maneuvering.
4. Inspection and Cleaning
This is a critical step for preventing future issues after your snowmobile track replacement.
Inspect Components: Thoroughly inspect the drive sprockets, idler wheels, bearings, and all suspension components for wear, cracks, or damage. Replace any worn parts.
Clean Tunnel Area: Clean out any debris, dirt, or ice from the tunnel area and around the drive axle. A clean surface helps prevent premature wear on the new track.
5. Installing the New Track
The new track goes on in reverse order of removal.
Slide New Track In: Carefully slide the new snowmobile track under the tunnel and onto the drive sprockets. Ensure it’s centered.
Reinstall Drive Axle Components: Reinstall any bearing retainers or collars on the drive axle.
6. Reinstalling the Skid Frame
This part can be tricky and may require a second person.
Position Skid Frame: Carefully slide the skid frame back under the snowmobile, aligning it with the mounting holes.
Reinstall Mounting Bolts: Insert and hand-tighten all mounting bolts. Once all are in place, torque them to the manufacturer’s specifications using your torque wrench. Apply thread locker where specified.
7. Adjusting Track Tension and Alignment
Proper tension and alignment are crucial for track longevity and performance.
Adjust Tension: Tighten the track tension adjusters evenly on both sides until the track has the recommended sag (usually 1/2 to 3/4 inch when lifted mid-span). Consult your service manual for the exact specification.
Check Alignment: Spin the track by hand and visually inspect for proper alignment. The track should run straight without rubbing on the tunnel sides. Make small adjustments to the tensioners if needed to correct alignment.
8. Final Checks
Before lowering the snowmobile, perform these crucial checks.
Double-Check All Bolts: Ensure all bolts, especially those on the suspension and drive axle, are properly tightened to spec.
Reinstall Spark Plug Wires and Drive Belt: Connect the spark plug wires and reinstall the drive belt.
Lower Snowmobile: Carefully lower the snowmobile off the jack or lift stand.
Tips for a Successful Snowmobile Track Replacement
Consider these additional tips to make your snowmobile track replacement smoother and more effective.
Choose the Right Track: Always select a track that matches your snowmobile’s specifications (length, width, pitch) and your riding style. Different lug heights and patterns are designed for varying snow conditions.
Read Your Manual: Your snowmobile’s service manual is an invaluable resource, providing specific torque values and detailed instructions for your model.
Take Photos: Before disassembly, take pictures of how components are installed. This can be a huge help during reassembly.
Clean and Lubricate: While the suspension is out, take the opportunity to clean and lubricate all pivot points and bearings. This extends the life of your components.
Break-In Period: After a snowmobile track replacement, run the sled at moderate speeds for a short period to allow the track to settle and tension to stabilize. Recheck tension after the first ride.
Conclusion
Performing a snowmobile track replacement is a significant maintenance task that, when done correctly, ensures your sled remains a reliable and high-performing machine. By following this detailed guide, you can confidently tackle the job, prolonging the life of your snowmobile and enhancing your riding adventures. Always prioritize safety and consult your specific model’s service manual for precise instructions. A properly installed track means more enjoyable and worry-free time on the snow.