Sled Maintenance 101: Top Maintenance Tips Every Snowmobiler Should Know
The trails are almost open! With the 2024-2025 snowmobile season fast approaching, we’d like to reiterate the importance of snowmobile maintenance before, during, and after the season.
You may be thinking, “My sled was working fine at the end of last season, so I’m good to go.” While that may be true, chances are, your machine has been sitting in storage, collecting dust for several months now.
Even though the season isn’t here just yet, it’s not too early to look over your machine before heading out on the trails in a few months—or sooner, if we’re lucky. You don’t want to miss one minute of the season you’ve been waiting for!
Why Snowmobile Maintenance is Important
Inspecting your snowmobile before the season begins will allow you to identify potential maintenance needs and give you plenty of time to replace anything not working correctly. This will minimize any issues that could slow you down or impair your safety on the trails. Knowing your sled is in optimal shape, you can start the season with peace of mind.
Once the season starts, you’ll want to regularly maintain your snowmobile to experience a safe and enjoyable ride throughout the winter season. Proper care for your sled throughout the year enhances performance on the trails and extends its lifespan. After the season ends, it’s always a good idea to do maintenance before putting your sled away for the season.
If you’re wondering what types of maintenance are most important to keep your sled riding smooth as long as possible, we’ve identified five key types of maintenance and how to perform each.
5 Tips for Maintaining Your Snowmobile Year-Round
1: Regularly Inspect and Replace the Drive Belt
First, let’s explore how to inspect your belt properly and how to know when it’s time to replace it. We’ll also dive into why always having a well-maintained belt is so important.
Visual Inspection
When inspecting your belt, start with a visual inspection. During the visual inspection, there are four main concerns to look out for:
- Fraying Edges
Look closely for loose or frayed edges along the belt, as signs of these can indicate the belt is wearing unevenly and may soon fail.
- Cracks
Look out for small cracks that can develop on the inner and outer surfaces of the belt due to age and stress from all that intense riding. Small cracks can expand over time and eventually will cause the belt to snap.
- Glazing
If your belt appears shiny and smooth, it may be overheated, which may cause it to slip during normal operation, significantly reducing power transmission efficiency.
- Contamination
Check for any contaminants on the belt’s surface, such as fluids like oil, coolant, or other substances that can degrade the material and reduce performance.
Flexibility Test
Next, you’ll want to test the elasticity and structural integrity of your snowmobile’s drive belt. Gently bend the belt backward to expose the underside, where you can better view any cracks or signs of wear. This will also allow you to feel how stretchy or firm the belt is.
Width and Thickness Measurement
To measure the belt’s width and thickness, use a vernier caliper and compare these measurements to the manufacturer’s specifications. If your belt is too thin or narrow, it’s likely time for a replacement.
Key Signs It’s Time to Replace the Belt
There are a few key signs that it’s time to replace your belt:
- Visible Damage
If issues such as fraying, cracks, glazing, or contamination are visible during your inspection, it’s best to replace the belt immediately to avoid unexpected breakdowns. By doing a visual inspection before the season begins, you’ll have time to take care of any smaller issues before they become bigger.
- Performance Issues
It’s a good idea to take a short test drive at the beginning of the season before going on longer trail rides. That way, you can identify any potential performance issues and address them promptly. If you notice decreased performance, such as reduced acceleration or a slipping sensation while riding, it might be due to belt wear. Replace the belt as soon as possible.
- Preventative Replacement
In addition to apparent visible damage and the manufacturer’s recommendations, consider replacing the belt every couple of seasons, depending on your riding frequency and conditions. Frequent riders or those who ride in harsh conditions should consider more frequent replacements.
- Manufacturer’s Recommendations
Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for maximum belt lifespan. These guidelines are based on average usage conditions and are designed to prevent failures before they occur. If the manufacturer guidelines suggest it’s time for a replacement—we recommend it!
Importance of a Well-Maintained Belt
A well-maintained belt is key to the efficient operation of your snowmobile. It ensures that the power generated by the engine transmits effectively to the track, resulting in the following:
- Better Acceleration
A well-maintained belt in good condition will provide smooth and responsive acceleration for a more enjoyable ride.
- Higher Efficiency
When your belt is in optimal condition, the energy loss between the engine and the track will be reduced, helping to ensure your engine’s power is most effectively used.
- Reduced Wear on Components
A belt in excellent condition minimizes stress on other drivetrain components, preventing premature wear and extending the life of related parts.
2: Check and Maintain Track Tension
Proper track tension is vital for effective grip on the snow and overall handling stability. Incorrect tension may cause premature wear of the track, poor performance, and safety issues. It’s important to regularly inspect the track for signs of damage or wear, like cracks, tears, and missing lugs.
How to Properly Check and Adjust Track Tension
- Prepare the Snowmobile
Securely place the snowmobile on a maintenance stand designed to allow the track to hang freely without touching the ground.
- Measure the Track Sag
Locate the center of the track and use a ruler or tape measure to press down on it. The amount of sag (the distance the track moves downward from its resting position) is crucial to determine whether an adjustment is necessary. Typical sag measurements are usually specified in the snowmobile’s owner’s manual.
- Adjust the Tension
If the sag measurement is outside the recommended range, adjust the track tension bolts (usually located on the back of the track assembly). Turn the bolts as directed in the owner’s manual to increase or decrease the tension, adjusting both sides equally to maintain proper track alignment.
- Re-check Tension and Alignment
After making adjustments, re-measure the sag to ensure the track is within the specified tension range. Also, check the track’s alignment to make sure it runs straight. Misalignment can cause uneven wear and reduce the efficiency of your ride.
- Test the Adjustment
Once the adjustments are made, lower the snowmobile from the stand and briefly run the engine with the track off the ground. Stop the engine and perform one final tension and alignment check before riding.
3: Lubricate the Suspension System
Regular and proper lubrication of the suspension system prevents the buildup of rust and reduces friction in moving parts such as joints and bearings. It also ensures a smoother ride and improves the responsiveness of the suspension, providing a more comfortable experience during high-speed maneuvers and over rough terrain.
Inspect the suspension system regularly and promptly replace any worn or damaged parts to maintain your snowmobile’s safety and functionality. Keep an eye on the suspension’s performance throughout the season. If you notice changes in handling or an increase in noise from the suspension area, check the lubrication and condition of the components.
How to Properly Lubricate the Suspension System
High-quality, low-temperature grease is recommended for most snowmobiles to ensure that the lubricant remains effective in cold conditions. This type of grease will maintain its viscosity and lubricating properties even at sub-zero temperatures, protecting against moisture and preventing the freezing of suspension components. Always consult your snowmobile’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations, as manufacturers often specify lubricants that are formulated to work best with their systems.
Before applying the new lubricant, clean any dirt, grime, or old grease from the suspension pivot points and bearings with a rag and a mild solvent. Ensuring these areas are clean will help the new lubricant adhere better and work more effectively.
Next, apply grease liberally to all pivot points, joints, and bearings in the suspension system. Most snowmobiles have grease fittings, where you can inject the grease directly using a grease gun. Make sure to apply enough grease so that it emerges from the sides of the bearings and covers all moving parts thoroughly.
After lubrication, cycle the suspension several times (if possible) by pressing down on the snowmobile to help distribute the grease evenly across all moving parts. Wipe away any excess grease that may collect around the fittings and pivot points after lubrication, as this can attract unwanted dirt and other debris, leading to increased wear.
Lubricate the suspension system before the start of the snowmobile season and after any particularly long or strenuous rides. This practice helps maintain optimal performance and prevent damage from moisture accumulation or exposure to extreme conditions.
4: Keep the Carburetor Clean
A clean carburetor ensures efficient fuel delivery, which is crucial for maintaining engine power and preventing stalling. Regular cleaning, especially after storage, can prevent buildup that leads to performance issues.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to remove the carburetor from the engine. Disassemble the carburetor, being careful with small parts like jets and needles. Use carburetor cleaner to spray all passages and jets, inspect all parts for wear, and replace if necessary.
After thoroughly cleaning the carburetor, following the manufacturer’s instructions, reassemble and reinstall it, ensuring all connections are secure.
5: Regularly Inspect and Change Engine Oil and Filter
Regularly inspecting and changing engine oil is vital to your snowmobile’s longevity. Fresh oil is crucial for lubricating moving parts, reducing friction, preventing overheating, and extending engine life. Before each ride, check oil levels and quality.
Additionally, it’s best to change it at least once a season or according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. To change the oil, drain the old oil while the engine is warm to ensure better flow. Use the type and grade of oil specified by the manufacturer to achieve optimal performance and longevity. We also recommend replacing the oil filter every time you change the oil.
Get Ready for an Awesome Riding Season!
By following these essential maintenance tips, you’ll keep your snowmobile in excellent condition this season and for years to come. All that’s left to do now is get excited about the upcoming season! If you need any sharpening tools or additional products and accessories to make this year’s riding season your best yet, check out our online store.
