Chloe Zhang
Installing plastic tracks on your Argo XTV can significantly improve its performance on soft surfaces such as mud, sand, snow and ice. The standard Argo plastic tracks are 13 inches wide and are compatible only with 24-inch tires. There are also 18-inch wide Super Tracks that offer even better traction on snow and ice. To install plastic tracks, you must first lay the treads on the ground in front of your Argo and drive over them, stopping when there are two tread sections in front of the front wheels. Next, wrap the back of the tread over the tops of the tires, and use a C-clamp to hold the ends together. Then, install the bushing, track pin and locking screw to link the ends of the track.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Track Width | 13" (330 mm) or 18" (457 mm) |
| Track Type | Plastic or rubber |
| Vehicle Type | Argo XTV |
| Tire Size | 24-inch or 25-inch |
| Installation Steps | Lay treads in front of vehicle, drive over them, wrap over tires, use C-clamp, install bushing, track pin, and locking screw |
| Axle Extensions | Required for mounting tracks |
| Tire Pressure | Inflate tires to 10 PSI |
| Tire Diameter Difference | Within ½ inch for each side |
| Track Segments | 6×6 models: 31 ½ segments per side; 8×8 models: 39 ½ segments per side |
| Slack | 1 inch for Frontier, Aurora, and Avenger models; 2.5 inches for other models |
| Track Compatibility | Not compatible with AquaTorque mud tires on Bigfoot 800 MX6 and MX8 XTVs |
| Cleats | Install using outer mounting holes only |
| Tire Direction | May need to reverse some tires or deflate tires |
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What You'll Learn
Prepare your Argo XTV
Before installing plastic tracks on your Argo XTV, there are several steps you should take to prepare your vehicle. Firstly, determine whether your XTV has axle extensions, as these are required to mount tracks. If your model does not have axle extensions, they must be added to provide sufficient clearance from the hull for the tracks.
Once you have ensured that your XTV has the necessary axle extensions, you can proceed to prepare the tires. Inflate the tires to 10 PSI, and if they are new or older tires that were previously under 5 PSI, allow them to sit for 24 hours to fully stretch out. After this period, recheck the tire pressure and measure the circumference of each tire. Sort the wheels so that each side of the vehicle has tires with diameters that are within 1/2 inch of each other. For a 6x6 model, position the smallest tire at the front and the largest at the back.
When installing the tracks, it is important to note that they must be installed around equal-sized tires. Failure to do so can cause speed differences between the wheels, leading to chain windup and potential damage to the drive system. Additionally, cleats should only be installed using the outer holes of the track sections to prevent body damage, and they are not compatible with standard tracks.
Finally, consider the weight of the tracks when loading your vehicle. The weight of the tracks will impact the total payload capacity, so be sure to subtract the weight of the tracks from the payload capacity to ensure your vehicle is not overloaded.
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Lay the treads, drive over, and wrap
Lay the treads on the ground in front of your Argo and drive over them. Make sure you stop when there are two tread sections in front of the front wheels. This will ensure that the treads are properly aligned with the wheels.
Now, wrap the back of the tread over the tops of the tires. You may need to deflate the front and rear tires to do this properly and get the tread ends to meet. If you have had to deflate the tires, remember to inflate them again once the treads are in place.
Use a C-clamp to hold the ends of the tread together. This will ensure that the treads do not move while you are installing the other components. Install the bushing, track pin, and locking screw to link the ends of the track and hold it securely in place.
Finally, remove the C-clamp and unroll the treads. Your Argo is now ready to drive over the newly installed plastic tracks.
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Secure the track ends
To secure the track ends, start by lining up the holes on the two track segments. Place a lock bushing in the gap at the centre of where the segments meet. Hammer a track pin through the holes and bushing. You can add a drop of blue threadlocker to the set screw and install it in the bushing. As you build the track, alternate the direction of each track pin.
Another method to secure the track ends is to use a C-clamp to hold the ends together. Install the bushing, track pin, and locking screw to link the ends of the track.
If you are using plastic tracks, you can flatten the end tyres and use ratchet straps to pull them together. Spray a generous amount of WD-40 on the hinge and set the pin. Do not seize the lock collar and paint it so that you know which pin the collar set screw will likely come out of when it is time for removal.
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Install the bushing, pin, and screw
To install the bushing, pin, and screw, start by lining up the holes on the two-track segments. Place a lock bushing in the gap at the centre of where the segments meet. Next, hammer the track pin through the holes and bushing. At this stage, you should alternate the direction of each track pin as you build your track.
Now, add a drop of blue threadlocker to the set screw and install it in the bushing. This will help to secure the connection and prevent the screw from coming loose. Make sure the screw is tightened securely, as this will ensure the track segments are properly connected and aligned.
Once the screw is in place, check that the track segments are securely joined and that the bushing and pin are firmly in place. You can do this by gently pulling on the track segments to ensure they are connected and won't separate during use.
If you ever need to remove the track pin, you can use a C-clamp to take the tension off the tread sections. Then, remove the set screw with a screwdriver and use a hammer and punch to remove the track pin.
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Check for correct tire pressure
Installing a set of tracks on your Argo can be a tricky task. To ensure your vehicle operates smoothly, it is important to check that your tire pressure is correct.
Firstly, if your Argo XTV does not have axle extensions, these must be added to provide sufficient clearance from the hull. This is an essential first step as it ensures the tracks do not come into contact with the hull and cause damage or impede movement. Once the axle extensions are in place, you can determine the number of segments required for each side, allowing for appropriate tire clearance.
Now, to check the tire pressure:
- Prepare the tires: If you have recently installed new tires or added air to underinflated tires, allow them to sit for 24 hours to fully stretch out. This step is crucial as it ensures the tire pressure stabilizes and provides an accurate reading.
- Determine the recommended pressure: Refer to the manufacturer's specifications for the correct tire pressure. This information can typically be found on the door panel or in the owner's manual. It is important to use the recommended pressure to avoid overinflation or underinflation, which can affect the vehicle's performance and safety.
- Check the pressure with a gauge: Invest in a quality tire pressure gauge to get accurate readings. Remove the valve cap from one of the tires and place the pressure gauge on the valve stem. Press down firmly until the hissing sound stops, and note the reading. Repeat this process for all tires, recording the pressure for each.
- Adjust the pressure if needed: If the tires are "hot" from driving or direct sunlight, you may need to compensate for pressure fluctuations. Set the pressure to 4 PSI (14 kPa) above the recommended cold inflation pressure. Recheck the pressure when the tires are cold, and adjust as necessary. It is better to overfill slightly and then release air, as needed.
- Ensure consistent pressure across tires: If your front and rear tires require different pressure levels, write down the correct PSI for each before adjusting. This will help you avoid confusion as you move around the vehicle, making adjustments.
- Use a gas station air compressor with caution: While gas stations offer a convenient way to refill tires, their air compressors can make your tires "hot." Always recheck the tire pressure with your personal gauge after using a gas station compressor and adjust as needed.
- Maintain optimal pressure: Make checking your tire pressure a monthly ritual. Regular checks ensure your tires remain within the optimal PSI range, improving performance, traction, and the longevity of your tires.
By following these steps, you can ensure your Argo's tire pressure is correct and maintain the overall health of your vehicle.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic tracks can give your Argo XTV the lowest ground pressure possible, allowing it to easily travel across soft mud, snow, and ice. They also improve traction and soft surface performance.
Axle extensions are required to mount plastic tracks. If your Argo doesn't have them, they must be added to give the tracks enough clearance from the hull. You should also remove the wheels and inflate the tires to 10 PSI.
Lay the treads in front of your Argo and drive over them, stopping when there are two tread sections in front of the front wheels. Wrap the back of the tread over the tops of the tires and use a C-clamp to hold the ends together. Install the bushing, track pin, and locking screw to secure the ends of the track.
Yes, the tracks must be installed around equal-sized tires to prevent speed differences that can cause chain windup and damage the drive system. Additionally, cleats should only be installed using the outer holes of the track sections to avoid body damage.
Before using your Argo, inspect the track pins for any signs of wear or damage. Regularly clean and maintain the tracks to ensure they are free of debris and built-up grime.
