+1 561 855 1409 How to Properly Tighten a Snowmobile Track
A properly tensioned snowmobile track is essential for performance, safety, and preventing premature wear. Whether you ride trails, deep snow, or mountains, checking and adjusting your snowmobile track tension should be regular maintenance. This guide explains how to adjust snowmobile track tension, what tools you need, and how to get proper track tension every time.
Why Snowmobile Track Tension Matters
The track is the heart of your machine’s propulsion system. If it’s too loose, it may ratchet, slap the tunnel, or derail in deep snow. If it’s too tight, it can rob engine power, create excess friction, overheat bearings, and reduce the track’s lifespan.
Mastering adjusting tension ensures:
-
Better throttle response
-
Improved fuel efficiency
-
Reduced noise and vibration
-
Longer life for sliders, bearings, and track
-
Safer, smoother riding in all conditions
Tools You Need (Including the Best Snowmobile Track Tension Tool)
To adjust snowmobile track tension, you’ll need:
-
A lift stand or jack
-
A metric or standard wrench set
-
A ruler or tape measure
-
A track tension gauge
A snowmobile track tension tool helps you apply consistent downward pressure on the track when measuring deflection. This gives you a far more accurate reading compared to eyeballing or pushing with your hand.
How to Check Snowmobile Track Tension
Before you begin, get familiar with the manufacturer’s recommended sag and pressure settings, typically found in the owner’s manual. Though specs vary, most sleds require around 1" (25 mm) of sag under 10–20 lbs (4.5–9 kg) of pressure.
Follow these steps:
-
Raise the rear of the snowmobile so the track hangs freely.
-
Rotate the track by hand to ensure no ice or debris is packed inside.
-
Position your measurement device halfway between the rails.
-
Apply the recommended downward force using your track tension tool.
-
Measure how far the track sags—this is your tension reading.
If the sag is outside the recommended range, it’s time to adjust track tension.
How to Adjust Snowmobile Track Tension (Step-by-Step)
Here is the standard method used across most brands.
1. Loosen the Rear Axle
Using your wrench, slightly loosen the rear axle bolts. Do not remove them—just loosen enough to allow the track to move when you adjust tension.
2. Adjust the Tensioners
Each side of the snowmobile’s rear suspension has a tension bolt.
-
Turn the bolts clockwise to tighten the track.
-
Turn them counterclockwise to loosen the track.
Take care to adjust both sides evenly to maintain alignment.
3. Re-Check Tension
Lower the sled or rotate the track again and measure the sag using the tension gauge.
Repeat the process until the track deflection matches the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. Align the Track
When learning how to set snowmobile track tension, alignment is just as important.
Spin the track and observe how it centers on the rear wheels. If it drifts:
-
Tighten the side it drifts toward.
-
Loosen the opposite side.
5. Tighten the Rear Axle
When you are satisfied with the tension and alignment, torque the rear axle bolts to spec.
Common Mistakes When Adjusting Track Tension
Avoid these common errors:
-
Over-tightening the track
-
Ignoring alignment during the process
-
Not lifting the sled properly
-
Measuring without the correct pressure
-
Forgetting to torque axle bolts
Using a snowmobile track tension tool helps eliminate many of these mistakes by providing consistent pressure and accurate measurements.
Signs Your Track Tension Is Incorrect
Your sled may tell you the track is out of adjustment. Watch for:
-
Slapping or banging noises
-
Ratcheting under acceleration
-
Excessive vibration
-
Poor fuel mileage
-
Burnt slides
-
Engine sluggishness
If you notice any of these, it’s time to check snowmobile track tension and make adjustments.
Final Tips for Proper Track Tension on a Snowmobile
-
Inspect tension every 300–500 miles.
-
Re-check after riding in deep powder (snow buildup can change tension).
-
Always follow the manufacturer's sag and alignment specifications.
-
A dedicated gauge is the best track tension tool to achieve precision.
Knowing how to adjust snowmobile track tension helps protect your machine and ensures you enjoy a smooth, efficient ride all season long.
