Argo Rubber Track - Extension

[dodge]

Well after several evenings in the shop I have finally got the new 18" rubber Argo tracks mounted up on my '07 Avenger. Having followed the instructions to a T, I figured I would post a question for you guys most likely more knowledgeable than me about the space under the two middle tires when the machine is elevated. Instructions say the spacing between the bottom of the #2 & #3 tire and the inside of the track should be 2-3 inches. I have the tire pressures set to 5-7-7-6 (front to back) psi and with the track extension the distance is about 3.5" / without the extension is 1.5" . Not wanting to overstrain the axles and bearings I am wondering if I should run them with or without the hinge extension piece. My options are to run the tracks with the extension plate and air the tires up a bit or run without and lower the air pressure somewhat. Will these tracks stretch any after the first few hours. Just want to make sure I am running these correctly as we all know what these things are worth ($) Thanks for any and all replies.

[Buzz]

I think at 1.5" you're pretty safe. I've heard 1-2 inches being recommended. Rubber tracks do stretch though it takes some time. I'd just drop each tire by 1 p.s.i. and drive around bit, see what you think. Your tires shouldn't slip unless ice builds up inside and they are subjected to heavy load (climbing). Too low is when you'll drive out of the track and/or break tire guides, and of course too tight is bad too. Right or wrong, I just push each tire in with the ball of my foot to catch the "really low" or "really hard" tires after I've set them up initially. You'll get a feel for what 5-6 psi, 7-8 psi, and even 1-2 psi feels like. The outside temp changes, and you know, sometimes the wheels are packed full of snow/ice
I don't think you'll damage the tracks, that rubber belting is tough. It's the chain/bearings/sprockets that take the heavy load all the time, worse when the tracks are too tight. I just heard a set of Track Tuners calling your name.

[philipatmaxfour]

Well after several evenings in the shop I have finally got the new 18" rubber Argo tracks mounted up on my '07 Avenger. Having followed the instructions to a T, I figured I would post a question for you guys most likely more knowledgeable than me about the space under the two middle tires when the machine is elevated. Instructions say the spacing between the bottom of the #2 & #3 tire and the inside of the track should be 2-3 inches. I have the tire pressures set to 5-7-7-6 (front to back) psi and with the track extension the distance is about 3.5" / without the extension is 1.5" . Not wanting to overstrain the axles and bearings I am wondering if I should run them with or without the hinge extension piece. My options are to run the tracks with the extension plate and air the tires up a bit or run without and lower the air pressure somewhat. Will these tracks stretch any after the first few hours. Just want to make sure I am running these correctly as we all know what these things are worth ($) Thanks for any and all replies.

hi dodge . those pressures are right as in the manual.It is a pain to measure the circumference of each tire, but as you probably know, they do vary a lot sometimes with exactly the same air pressure. my manual on my 2007 avenger says -measure. I do, and I put them on as per manual but I run less air and they don't slip.

[dodge]

Thanks for the info guys. After reading your post buzz I did a little research on the track tuners and can see where they would be beneficial. Do either of you guys run these on your machines.I took the machine for a spin tonight with the tracks on (opted to go without the hinge extension) and what a difference. I liked the machine before I installed the tracks but these are gonna be the ticket for winter. I dropped the pressure on the front and rear tires by 0.5 psi and no problems so I think I will drop all four by 0.5 psi and try it again. It's most likely just a tuning thing now varying air pressures until I find the point where they are just right.

[Buzz]

I don't currently but am waiting on a set. I tend to run several different sets of tracks, and from what I've heard they make a big difference. Enough to where your machine even "feels" much better. But I haven't had a chance to actually try them. I've only tried pulling the rear chains, and it's not the answer. You're gonna have lotsa fun.

[dodge]

Tuners have been ordered and should be here early next week. Bring on the deep snow!

[Grandsteph]

I have the 18 inch argo rubber tracks on my 04 avenger. Despite following the wheel and track installation instructions exactly, I was not happy with tension on chains/sprockets/bearings. Chain windup issues. I was spending way too much time trying to inflate/deflate every combination if tires you can think but still chain windup. I ordered Adair track tuners today and I suspect that will be the answer.