Track Studding - BOMBARDIER 1996 Ski-doo MX Z440 Handbook

Section 03 CHASSIS PREPARATION
There are two special tools which greatly enhance the removal and addition of guide clips.
529028700 Guide clip remover
529028800 Guide clip crimper

TRACK STUDDING

WARNING : Installation of track studs is not a safe practice recommended by Bombar-
dier, and we strongly suggest not to alter the track configuration or design. The actual
installation of studs involves many factors, including rider weight, suspension set-up, terrain type
and conditions as well as driver's experience and preference. One must also consider the
adequacy of stud retention, short- and long-term, accidental body or vehicle contact and under
certain conditions, greater stopping distances. One should also consider greater strain on the
drive components and reduction track strength to name a few. This information relates to the
preparation and use of snowmobiles in competitive events and has been utilized safely and
effectively by Bombardier Inc. professional racing team. However, Bombardier Inc. disclaims
liability for all damages and /or injuries resulting from improper use of the contents. We strongly
recommend that these modifications be carried out and / or verified by a highly-skilled profes-
sional racing mechanic. [t is understood that racing or modifications of any Bombardier-made
snowmobile voids the vehicle warranty and that such modifications may render use of the vehicle
illegal in other than sanctioned racing events under existing federal, provincial and state regula-
tions.
Traction control requires the installation of studs to the track so that you may improve the
acceleration, direction and braking of the snowmobile on certain surfaces. Selection of the proper
traction components is very important. It is also important to have the proper number of studs and
to keep them sharp or replaced at all times.
For racing on hard ice, the single point stud is the most popular. If the ice gets a little softer, racers
will add a variety of stamped studs. Always use Loctite when installing your studs.
Stud sharpness counts more than the number of studs. Fewer sharp, fresh studs work much better
than a great many dull studs with a few new ones thrown in. Too many studs will keep the points
from digging in and the sled will float, instead of hooking up.
If the studs do not prick your finger when you touch the tip they are not sharp enough. A small die
grinder can be used to sharpen worn studs.
Place studs where pressure is concentrated on the edge of the track for turns, in the center of the
track for acceleration and braking.
Hooker plates are welded to the track cleats and place the studs directly beneath the slider shoes
for maximum pressure. The hooker setup is very hard on tracks, particularly the fiberglass
reinforcing rods.
The other thing that must be kept in mind if hooker plates are used is that the studs will be directly
in line with the heat exchanger protectors. The protectors must be removed and another system
employed to protect the heat exchangers.
Depending upon machine setup, driver weight and driving characteristics, 250 to 300 penetrator
studs will be required. The 121 inch Formula track has 48 pitches. The most studs that can
effectively be placed on each pitch is 7—which means the maximum number of studs the track can
hold is 336.
The drawing below shows a pattern of 6 studs alternating with 7 studs for a total of 312 studs. Try
to keep studs from following the same line for 3 pitches.
With stud support (P/ N 4860493 00) it is possible to add some studs on cleats.
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