41
3. At the mid-point of the track (on the
bottom side), hook a spring scale around
a track clip; then pull down on the scale
to 20 lb. Measure the deflection (dis-
tance) between the bottom of the wear
strip and the inside surface of the track
clip. Measurement should be 2.0 in.
746-788A
NOTE: Measurement is from the
bottom of the wear strip at the point
of the shock pad on the slide rail.
Adjusting Track Tension
NOTE: To ensure proper track ten-
sion adjustment, perform all adjust-
ments on both sides of the
snowmobile.
1. Loosen the idler wheel axle cap
screws.
0745-811
2. If the deflection (distance between
the bottom of the wear strip and the
inside surface of the track clip)
exceeds specifications, tighten the
adjusting bolts to take up excessive
slack in the track.
3. If the distance between the bottom of
the wear strip and the inside surface
of the track clip is less than specified,
loosen the adjusting bolts to increase
the slack in the track.
4. Check track alignment.
5. After proper track tension is
obtained, tighten the idler wheel
axle cap screws to 34 ft-lb; then
tighten the adjusting bolts securely
against the axle.
NOTE: Since track tension and
track alignment are interrelated,
always check both even if only one
adjustment seems necessary.
Track Alignment
Proper track alignment is obtained when
the rear idler wheels are equal distance
from the inner track drive lugs. Excessive
wear to the idler wheels, drive lugs, and
track will occur if the track is improperly
aligned. Arctic Cat recommends that the
track alignment be checked once a week
or whenever the track tension is adjusted.
Checking Track Alignment
1. Remove excess ice and snow buildup
from the track, track drive sprockets,
and the inside of the skid frame.
CAUTION
Always maintain track tension within
recommended specification.
! WARNING
Always make sure the adjusting bolts
are snug against the axle and the
idler wheel cap screws are tightened
to specifications. Failure to do so
could cause the track to become
extremely loose and, under some
operating conditions, allow the idler
wheels to climb over the track lugs
forcing the track against the tunnel
causing the track to “lock.” If a track
“locks” during operation, severe per-
sonal injury could result.
! WARNING
Make sure the ignition key is in the
OFF position and the track is not
rotating before checking or adjusting
track alignment. Personal injury
could result if contact is made with a
rotating track.
