8. Balance your clutch
Most OEMs have a range of tolerance for clutch balance. In other words, the clutch may not be perfectly balanced. Because of mass production and the sheer number that has to be manufactured, it is almost impossible for the factory to be perfectly accurate when it comes to balance. As time goes on, and clutches wear, balance is compromised even more. A clutch that is out of balance will cause vibration that can be very damaging to chassis, engine and clutch components.
Vibration also causes a dramatic increase in crankshaft wear and if bad enough, it will ruin a crankshaft in a very short amount of time. Clutch balance should be checked at least once a year and typically it is easiest to check it before the first ride of the season when routine pre-season inspection and maintenance is performed. This even includes a brand new unit straight out of the crate. There are a number of aftermarket shops and dealers that offer a clutch balancing service. A well-balanced clutch will transfer more power to the ground than one that is not.
9. Don't overlook the simple stuff
There are a few other things that often get overlooked during routine maintenance. Of course all the bushings, rollers and pins should be inspected for wear, excessive free play and the sheaves should be inspected for signs of cracking or breakage. The entire clutch should be looked over for marks where the clutch has been impacted or damaged in a way that the integrity of the clutch could be compromised.
Clutch faces should have any black belt residue removed by cleaning with a scotch bright pad, steel wool or 320 grit sandpaper. They should also be inspected very meticulously for small cracks or heat damage. If cracks or impact damage are detected, the clutch should be replaced as this type of damage can result in a clutch exploding at high rpm, throwing shrapnel inside the engine compartment and damaging other parts. Inspect the PTO end for roughness and the taper inside the clutch for roughness. Repairs can be made with emery cloth or a taper reamer.
Maintenance schedules will vary depending on how the sled is ridden. A mountain sled should have the clutches checked and cleaned about every 500-1000 miles. Trail sleds can go longer and may need to be checked every 1000-2000 miles. Race sleds should be checked and cleaned as often as every race. At the very least, clutches should be checked and cleaned once a year.
10. Check your sled briefly before every ride
