Steering very jerky

[CR125HAYDEN]

Hi Guys,
Newbee with just 2 rides under my belt. When I turn even slightly it jerks so hard it about throws me off the seat. I have a used 98 Indy 500 and put on new skags, roetin x-pr1's. There is a carbide strip about 6" long. I checked the alignment and it looks pretty good. Is the problem the skags or is a suspension adjustment needed?

Thanks, David

 

[Woodsrider]

First make check condition of steering bushing rod ends (tie rods, radius rods) look for little to no slop. Worn parts will have to be replaced. Next make sure the alignment is set to about 1/8" to 1/4" toe out. If parts and alignment are OK you may need to reduce the down force on ski's. If front shocks may have threaded or stepped collars loosen pressure. Also some of the center shocks in rear suspension have adjustment more pressure there will reduce pressure on ski's.

 

[CR125HAYDEN]

Hi,
Thanks for the input, the rods and ends are good and tight. There is a little play where the spindle shaft (think thats what it is called) connects to the plastic ski. I will check the alignment and make sure it is set with the correct toe out. On the ski shocks, should I reduce the preload (lessen pressure on spring) on the springs. On the rear shock increase the preload. A kid has this before me so it is probally all off for my weight.

Could the solid 6" carbide strip make it jerky. My kids sled has spaces between the carbides. It feels like when you turn it is not smooth, it is like turning useing a series of stright lines.

Thanks, David

 

[Woodsrider]

Yes loosen the preload on ski shocks if that does not help add to middle shock preload. You can also reduce preload on rear springs all of this will reduce force on skis. 6 inches of carbide is more than stock and maybe more than you need if you do not have track studded. There should not be spaces between carbide that means 1 or more pieces have fallen out which will cause sled to dart to one side if the hook on anything.

 

[CR125HAYDEN]

Hi,
Thanks for your help, I will get to work on it next weekend. I'm pretty good at dirt bike suspensions, but clueless on sleds. Do you think if the problem persists after all of the adjustments, grinding off 2'' of the 6'' carbides will help, the track is not studded.
Thanks, David

 

[Woodsrider]

It is possible to reduce length, will need a green grind wheel to remove carbide. Also you should remove same amount from both ends. Believe more in front of spinal mount will cause sled to steer quicker and to dart around.