74
MAINTENANCE
3. If the distance between the bot-
tom of the wear strip and the
inside surface of the track is less
than specified, loosen the adjust-
ing bolts to increase the slack in
the track.
4. Check track alignment (see Track
Alignment section).
5. When proper track tension is
obtained, tighten the adjusting
bolt jam nuts against the axle
housings.
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.
2. Position the tips of the skis
against a wall; then using a
shielded safety stand, raise the
rear of the snowmobile off the
floor making sure the track is free
to rotate.
3. Start the engine and accelerate
slightly. Use only enough throttle
to turn the track several revolu-
tions. SHUT ENGINE OFF.
NOTE: Allow the track to coast
to a stop. DO NOT apply the brake
because it could produce an inac-
curate alignment condition.
! WARNING
If jam nuts are not tightened prop-
erly, the adjusting bolts could
loosen causing 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
personal 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. Per-
sonal injury could result if contact
is made with a rotating track.
! WARNING
The tips of the skis must be posi-
tioned against a wall or similar
object.
! WARNING
DO NOT stand behind the snow-
mobile or near the rotating track.
NEVER run the track at high
speed when the track is sus-
pended.
