I asked my contacts at Polaris for clarification of the QuickDrive improvements for 2014.
These are not "rumor type" answers. They come from Polaris corporate in consultation with the engineering and production departments in charge of the design, specification and production of the sleds.
There are many inaccurate rumors out there generated by the filtering down of information through the DSM's, dealers and other people in the "chain" that is normal and part of the process of communication.
I am posting up here what I have been told in an attempt to keep speculation to a minimum.
What we will see as results in 2014 Production sleds in the hands of the consumer will be seen next fall.
MH
These are not "rumor type" answers. They come from Polaris corporate in consultation with the engineering and production departments in charge of the design, specification and production of the sleds.
There are many inaccurate rumors out there generated by the filtering down of information through the DSM's, dealers and other people in the "chain" that is normal and part of the process of communication.
I am posting up here what I have been told in an attempt to keep speculation to a minimum.
What we will see as results in 2014 Production sleds in the hands of the consumer will be seen next fall.
MH
.1)
Q: Will the 2014 QD feature the same Extruded driveshaft?
A: Yes, there is no change to the driveshaft
2)
Q: Will the driveshaft be equipped with a collar?
A: Yes, the collar will be standard on the MY14 Pro-RMK. This has proven to be a very effective solution for addressing concerns with driveshaft separation.
3)
Q: Has the splined drive-end stub been changed at all to extend into the driveshaft?
A:No, the geometry of the end has not been changed. However, the tolerances on the controlled dimensions have been tightened. The reason for this is that the ultimate root cause of driveshaft separation was part fit, NOT the bonding process. The bonded joint is sufficiently strong, and the bonding process is well-controlled. Tightening the tolerances will ensure the integrity of the joint. The inclusion of the collar for MY14 as noted above is simply a “belt and suspenders” solution to instill confidence.
4)
Q: Has the toothed drive belt been changed at all, and if so, what has been done?
A: First, please note the following regarding QuickDrive belts:
a. QuickDrive technology provides tremendous benefits to consumers as it gives the sled a lighter, more responsive feel. This is industry-leading technology and we’re committed to continuous improvement.
b. The root causes of belt tooth shear are typically elevated temperatures and shock loading (i.e. Power-on landings)
c. Elevated belt temps are often driven by riding style – such as prolonged high-speed runs on hardpack snow. Normal deep snow riding conditions do not typically cause elevated belt temps. (This is largely a consumer education issue, similar to when tall-lug tracks were introduced. Consumers learned that these purpose built mountain tracks should not be operated at sustained high speeds.)
For MY14, Polaris has developed a new QuickDrive belt. This new belt runs cooler and is 25% - 40% stronger than the MY13 belt in typical deep snow riding conditions. The new belt will be available in time for the 13-14 riding season and will supersede the old part number. It can be used on both MY13 and MY14 Pro-RMKs.
We have also introduced a Service Bulletin to address sprocket fastener torque. This bulletin instructs dealers to replace the sprocket bolts and torque properly. This will ensure the fastener stays tight and will not allow the sprocket to loosen – a condition which may also reduce QuickDrive belt life. Consumers should have this work done as soon as they can.
We are asking our dealers to continue to educate consumers on best practices to ensure maximum belt life:
a. Carefully follow recommended QuickDrive belt break-in procedures. Speeds should be moderate and varied.
b. Minimize power-on landings.
c. Avoid prolonged high-speed running – similar to track guidelines.
d. Allow system to cool after high-speed runs.
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But I am still loving my 12 so I think Im going to hang on to it for another couple years
