Are Tracks Bad for Axles

[Gras]

I have an 87 I/C 8x8. It came with the Argo super tracks. I haven't used them so I'm wondering, are they hard on the axles? I know they are a tight fit but the only time I will use them is if I run it during the winter. I've stayed away from that but have been getting the itch to try them out. What's everyone's opinion on how they affect the axels. They guy I bought it from hardly used them so they are in great shape. They only problem he said was that with the new 22" tires (original 20" are no longer made) there is only about 1/2" clearance between the tracks and the body so they tend to slap a little.

[trevorakm1]

I've heard the rubber tracks are the hardest on axles though I've never run them. I have the super tracks and have only used once. I also have a set of adair tracks. Both the super tracks and the adair slide easier and I think that is where you get less stress on the axles. I'm no expert though.

[Delduck]

I have had the rubber tracks for a few years. I’ve tried most other styles, and for driving over phragmitis there is not a better track. As far as breaking axles I’ve broke 4 on my max 4. Until one of the members on another site told me to put on the steel track rail. After that I haven’t broken any and haven’t had to replace bearings for 2 years.

[ARGOJIM]

What kind of air pressures are you running?
You want a little droop in the track, biggest issue with the magnum might be the lack of rear bearing extensions , I know we ate a rear bearing from tracks to tight on ours 30 years ago.

[allwheeldrive]

Tracks can be run reliably with the right set up, but it should be noted no tracks are always less strain on a machine than with tracks.

[Gras]

I'm running 4,6,6,5 from front to back for tire pressure. That is what Tim at Adair Argo suggested when I first contacted him. I also set up the tires by size like he said with the smallest in front, largest on the second axle, next largest on the third, and the second smallest on the rear. My main concern is that I don't get a chance to use it a lot so I don't want it to set for a long time with the tracks on if they stress out the axles too much.