Snowmobile Belt Installation Tips

The belt on your snowmobile is a crucial component of the drive system, playing a vital role in performance and handling. The belt drive system is designed to balance off-the-line acceleration with top speed while optimizing backshifting and upshifting. Proper belt installation ensures maximum horsepower transfer from the engine to the ground. Follow these recommendations to achieve peak performance and extend your belt’s lifespan:

1. Select the correct belt
Using the wrong belt can reduce drive efficiency. A belt that is too short places excessive stress on the drive system, while one that is too long prevents the clutches from operating correctly.

2. Store belts properly
If you’re not using the belt immediately or are storing your sled, keep the belt in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.

3. Check clutch alignment
Proper clutch alignment is essential. Misaligned clutches, worn engine mounts, misaligned shafts, or damaged drive components can lead to belt wear or shredding. Ensure the center-to-center distance between the driver and driven clutch matches your sled’s specifications.

4. Install the belt correctly
Ensure the belt sits properly within the sheaves. The cord line (the backbone of the belt) should rest at or just above the outer circumference of the secondary (driven) clutch. Adjust the belt position as it wears to maintain this alignment, ensuring maximum RPM range and top-end performance.

5. Address belt noise
Belt noise often indicates improper installation. 

• Squealing noise: The belt tension may be too tight. Lower the belt in the secondary clutch to resolve this.
• Chirping noise: The belt may be too loose. Raise it in the secondary clutch to fix the issue.

6. Seat the belt properly
Every new belt needs to be run in. We recommend driving your sled at half throttle or less for the first 30 miles. This allows the belt to conform to the sheave angles, maximizing surface contact for more efficient power transfer.

7. Maintain belt rotation
If you remove the belt, reinstall it in the same direction. To ensure proper rotation, always position the belt so the label is readable when installed.

8. Inspect regularly
Check your belt and drive system at regular intervals. Look at where the belt rides on the sheaves to ensure there’s no excessive ride-out in the primary clutch. The belt surface should appear smooth and uniform, with no signs of glazing, cracks, or broken cords.

9. Avoid glazing and slipping
Glazing on the belt sidewall is usually caused by slipping. Clean clutch faces with acetone or brake cleaner, but never apply these chemicals to the belt, as they degrade its materials and shorten its lifespan. Avoid using any belt dressings.

10. Warm up before riding
Always allow the engine to warm up, so the belt reaches optimal operating temperature. If the track is frozen to the ground, free it manually or run the sled on a stand before riding.

By following these steps, you’ll enjoy more time on the trails and less time dealing with maintenance.