BOMBARDIER 1996 Ski-doo MX Z440 Handbook page 19

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NOTE : A shorter nylon limiter strap is available for vehicles equipped with the strap and
bolt style limiter. P / N 486056200.
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NOTE : Track tension must be checked whenever a major change is made to the limiter
length.
Front arm spring pressure will also affect weight transfer. A stiffer spring and/or more preload will
transfer more weight to the track. A softer spring and/or less preload will keep more weight on the
skis. Springs must also be selected to provide absorption to the intended size of bumps to be
encountered. A soft spring will increase ski pressure but may "bottom out" on large bumps, while
a stiff spring will provide more track pressure but may produce a harsh ride.
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NOTE : In this and other Ski-Doo texts, we refer to the front arm of the rear suspension
and it's spring and shock absorber, as the center of the vehicle. The ski suspension is
considered the front of the vehicle and the rear arm of the rear suspension and it's spring(s) and
shock(s) are indicated as the rear of the vehicle.
Also, think of the center arm as a pivot point. During acceleration the rear arm will want to
compress and the front suspension will want to extend (possibly raising the skis off the ground).
Because of this "pivoting" affect, the rear spring and preload will also affect weight transfer ( to a
lesser amount than center arm changes). A softer rear spring and/or less preload will allow more
weight transfer to the track and less ski pressure, while stiffer rear springs and /or more preload
will allow less weight transfer to the track and more ski pressure.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary to have the skis 2 feet off the ground to achieve good
weight transfer. In fact, the energy used to lift the front of the vehicle is not available to push the
vehicle forward.
The main function of the rear arm is to support the weight of the vehicle and rider, yet provide
usable travel to absorb bumps and jumps. The springs are chosen depending on the linkage
design of the rear arm and the intended load to be applied. Stiffer springs will be used on vehicles
intended to carry heavier loads and on vehicles that plan to encounter large bumps, while vehicles
used for lighter loads and on smaller bumps will use softer springs.
Springs for the front suspension are chosen in a similar fashion. A softer spring will provide less
ski pressure and will be used on lighter vehicles while stiffer springs will provide more ski pressure
and be used on heavier vehicles.
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NOTE : Shock absorber valving and the type of shock used will also affect weight
transfer. Refer to the shock absorber section for details.
Section 03 CHASSIS PREPARATION
03-3