By Gerard Rossman

Snowmobile track tension is important: too much tension will result in power loss and can cause premature failure of the suspension due to excess stress on the parts. Loose tension causes thumping, and a very loose track can even come off.
It’s worth checking the tension periodically. Adjusting the tension is a project you can do yourself.

To get started, for snowmobile owners who intend to make regular inspections and maintenance checks on their tracks, it’s recommended is to invest in a versatile snowmobile lift.

Instructions

1. Drive the snowmobile onto the lift. Turn off the snowmobile’s engine. Raise the lift, then lock it in place.

2. Check the gap between the slider shoe and the inside bottom of the track. It should be the distance specified by the snowmobile manufacturer in your manual. By way of example, BRP’s Ski-Doo citation requires 1/2-inch. Other manufacturers should have similar specifications.

3. Loosen the rear idler wheel retaining screw. Then loosen or tighten the adjuster bolts located on the inner side of the rear idler wheels until you reach your desired tension.
As you would expect, loosening reduces tension and tightening increases tension. Measure the gap between the slider shoe and the inside bottom of the track to ensure that it meets specifications.

Extra Tips

Always check the alignment first when adjusting the tension. Begin by carefully clearing any debris out of the track with a brush. Start the snowmobile and accelerate slowly. Check to see that the track is centered with the same distance on each side between the edges of the track, guides, and slider shoes.

To adjust the alignment, stop the engine, loosen the rear idling wheel retainer screws, and loosen the lock nuts.

Lastly, tighten the adjuster bolt on the side that is farthest from the the track insert guides. Tighten the lock nuts and recheck alignment. As always, remember to tighten the idler wheel retaining screw when finished.

Final Thoughts

Periodic inspections of the track during riding season and every 1,000 miles of operation is your best defense against slipping and damage to the cogs, wheels, and other crucial components. As always, it is imperative to check your tension at the start of your riding season or immediately after purchase of a new snowmobile, as well as during the initial break-in period.

A well-maintained track can last 5,000 miles, or more with proper maintenance. If you begin to hear a ratcheting sound while operating your sled, this can be a good indicator that it’s time to adjust your track.

Follow APS for more useful service tips for your powersports products.

Cover: The 2025 MXZ X-RS trail sled on the REV Gen5 platform. | Via: BRP Ski-Doo

Gerard Rossman is a journalist with Adrenaline Powersports Mag