A question about tracks...

[JimLeadfoot]

Do you guys feel like tracks on a Max II cause bearing problems? Seems like the tracks don't give the wheels the free play they need. Thoughts?

[Eldon]

I have run tracks since acquiring my Max II.In my opinion they double the usage of the machine especially here in this snowy country.That said I was told by one of the people at RI that tracks stress everything.I'm currently changing my bearings as I had excessive water leaks.I have so far found no total bearing failure and believe my leaking was caused by failed flange seals.Short answer is I believe they would be harder on bearings than no tracks but don't think they specifically attack the bearings.With bearing extensions and low tire pressure the tires will distort shape when on an object etc. and RI recommends running tracks with the front drive chains removed for I believe the reasons you are concerned about.

[nairb35]

I was told by a couple of max dealers that the "new style tracks",(what those are I haven't really figured out), are more bearing friendly. I am saving for a set from richards relics and hope this to be true I would love to go drive in snow deeper that 10",and not destoy my bearings.

[smog]

I was told by a couple of max dealers that the "new style tracks"are more bearing friendly. I am saving for a set from richards relics.

are you sure it's not cheaper to get the tracks anywhere else but Richard's ? (like at a RI dealer for example)

Also, plastic tracks are easier on everything as they will allow tire spin in the tracks instead of stretching the chains.

[nairb35]

I really don't know. Haven't done much research on tracks. Does anyone know where the cheapest source for tracks is ie:argo,max,? I really don't care where they come from as long as they work,last and are the cheapest available. How about it people somebody tell me where to look, thats what I love about this forum people are willing to help each other.

[smog]

first : where do you live ? (update your profile)

[nairb35]

Sorry profile updated.

[jpswift1]

My dad's Max II has tracks on it (since it was new) and the bearings on the frame and the outer bearing cages have all held up fine.

[smog]

Sorry profile updated.

call your local Argo and MAX dealers, THEN call richards

[Eldon]

Max has factory rubber tracks.I am to understand that plastic tracks turn easier than rubber but performance wise especially in snow there is no comparison.........rubber hands down for traction and I would think for durability as well.Factory track kits are pricey but they include..tracks...bearing cages,wheel extenders and reinforcement rails.A lot of fun in a set of tracks.

[argohunter]

I really don't know. Haven't done much research on tracks. Does anyone know where the cheapest source for tracks is ie:argo,max,? I really don't care where they come from as long as they work,last and are the cheapest available. How about it people somebody tell me where to look, thats what I love about this forum people are willing to help each other.

You should be searching the 6x6World site for information on tracks. There are numerous posts on here about tracks, good/bad, pro/con etc. The plastic tracks you referred to in another post are the plastic tru trax that are made in MN. Their factory price is about the same price you can expect to see elsewhere from some people selling aatv parts. If you are not too far from the Twin Cities you may be able to buy direct and save shipping (only to spend it on gas). I have used these tracks in the snow and they seem to work good. I have used them on low and high hp Max machines. You get much better performance with more horsepower. Irregardless of what some might say, they do work on low hp machines, just go slower and run out of steam faster when going up hill. These tracks need 6 wheel spacers for use on the Max II.

[JimLeadfoot]

Max has factory rubber tracks.I am to understand that plastic tracks turn easier than rubber but performance wise especially in snow there is no comparison.........rubber hands down for traction and I would think for durability as well.Factory track kits are pricey but they include..tracks...bearing cages,wheel extenders and reinforcement rails.A lot of fun in a set of tracks.

Good info - thx Eldon!

[JimLeadfoot]

Actually - thanks everyone for responding - I like running the stuff off you Max users, in case there is a trend in problems.

Much thanks to the BuggyMan today for showing me what a spacer is and how to remove axles