thanks guys for all the information!
The adair upgrade kit sure looks great , what about the factory Argo kit part # 101-97 ?
I am from Canada, it should be easier and cheaper to go with our local dealer.
the 101-97 can be made to work on the center axles, but using a 1/4" thick adapter plate is much better. The kit from adair includes this (plus gaskets, bearing, carrier, flange, and length appropriate bolts w/rubber washers, nyloc nuts) and prevents you from having to enlargen the holes in your HDPE tub on the center axles. It also prevents you from having to completely remove your existing bearing extension (housings) from the corner of your machine, purchase newer style extensions, and install those simply so that they'll accept the larger HD bearing and carrier.
Also, I like the idea of the larger surface area of the adapter plate fitting against your tub as well. This method also puts the HD bearing and bearing flange an additional 1/4" further out on the axle which is never a bad thing. Remove the axle paint with a wire wheel to a point just beyond where the HD bearing will ultimately rest before re-assembly. Makes everything go back together w/o any problems at all.
Glad I'm not the only one who's forgotten to line up the grease holes. Not much motivation to do it once the tracks are on
Biggest benefit is on the corner axles where the bearing extensions tuck the outer bearings nicely behind the wheels. Virtually impossible to grease without removing the wheels. HD upgrades here are super nice.
Center axles though can be greased w/o too much of a problem with or without HD upgrades and drilled holes. You will have to get your arms a little dirty though.
Yup! John you are right.I forgot that I am using Bolduc tracks and spacers. They look very similar to the pics. that I have seen of Adair track tuner spacers except the bolducs don't spin. I wonder if adair sells spacers for the outside wheels that have the "notched" style design? I am often wrong
I found this link for the Argo HDI bearing upgrade :
Parts Bulletin #161
http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&...,d.eXY&cad=rja
Is there anyone here who did the 3 cork gasket thing ? It looks weird too add so much soft gasket there ?