Track tension too tight after Rail extension install

[sethryder]

Hello,
I recently installed the Yam100 rail extensions from tracksusa on my 07 phazer fx. Along with the new extensions i put on a used camoplast challenger 136" track, new hyfax, x-wheels, guide wheels, and added a fourth wheel to rear axle. The problem is that even with the rear axle all the way in and with 22.5 lbs of weight on the track I only get 1" of space between track and bottom of hyfax. The manual says for a 121" track should have between 1.18-1.38" and usually a 136 would require even more distance.

So my question is: Do you think this used track will stretch enough after i put some miles on it, or should i remove some material from the extensions so the axel can go further in? (can't go much or i will run out of tension bolt threads)

thanks!

 

[canoehead]

Personaly I would run it and keep an eye on it.

 

[Ruggybuggy]

Do like I did. Seach my posts and see how I did it. I ran my used track and it still wouldn't loosen

 

[Mountaintech]

Personaly I would run it and keep an eye on it.

X2.

 

[Gone Blue]

I had the same concern with my 144" stretch with TracksUSA extensions and using a new take off Arctic Cat Predator track. I had the track adjuster nuts backed off so much the nylon inset was not engaging the threads. So I added Locktite to the nuts and have run it this way for 1,800 miles. No issues. My track stretched a little but not much. G.B.

 

[Ruggybuggy]

Here's the link for the fix. It was an easy job and only took a couple of hours.

http://www.ty4stroke.com/threads/tight-144-track.128269/page-2

 

[sethryder]

Thanks everyone for the feedback. So from the sound of things it sounds like the track may stretch but probably not that much. Thanks ruggybuggy for sending me the link, that looks like a great fix! Do you know the name of the tool inside the angle grinder? I would like to purchase one.
-seth

 

[Ruggybuggy]

They are available at amazon. The set I have was worth about $100. Don't buy cheap because they won't last. I've used mine for more than 10 years and they still cut like new.

http://www.amazon.com/Astro-Pneumat...8&qid=1419306547&sr=8-1&keywords=CARBIDE+BURS

 

[sethryder]

Awesome. Thanks!

 

[sethryder]

I emailed Tracksusa and they said a track tightness issues with the yam 100 extensions do not exist. He hinted i may have installed something incorrectly. Anyone think of something i may have overlooked that would effect track tension so greatly? Also, do you think if i tightened the limiter strap, that would create a bit more slack in the track?

 

[Ruggybuggy]

Tightening the limit strap would help but you would end up with too much weight on the skis which would effect your handling. I think the tight track occurs when using the 9 tooth drives. Use the 8 and the track would be loose.

 

[canoehead]

Tightening the limit strap would help but you would end up with too much weight on the skis which would effect your handling. I think the tight track occurs when using the 9 tooth drives. Use the 8 and the track would be loose.

X2 That's what I was thinking also originally.

 

[Mooseman]

I call BS on Tracks USA. My son installed a 144" extension on his Phazer GT and had the same tightness issue using a slightly used track. He just rode it and it loosened up a little. And it has the stock drives. If they shortened the extensions just 1/2", it would give just enough to be able to adjust it and allow for track stretch.

 

[Voda2000]

Is this an issue with the TracksUSA extensions and the Freeride 136" they sell as a package?

 

[Ruggybuggy]

I think the issue is TracksUSA is making the extension for the 8 tooth drivers and they simply overlooked the fact that there are 9 tooth drivers. A 136" track is a 136" track.