Ok, I want to stud this machine this year. I`m thinking about 120 studs up the middle but I cant find a proper template that has them only up the middle. Also, track isn`t in the best shape.

Anyway, few questions if anyone cares to answer:

1. Where do I find a template? If not, do I modify one?
2. Do I use double studs/backers?
3. Do I need to raise suspension?
4. Check picture below, would you stud this track? just some of the lugs are ripped off, not many.

Thx

SK1-D00R

Again, the main prt of the track is solid, no rips or tears. Only problem is some of the lugs are ripped off.

How did the lugs come off?

I do use studs, 168 up the middle on a 136" track. My own pattern that gives 24 scratch lines and hooks up well. I like studs for the conditions that I run into. Down this way for riding close to home we get lots of icey trails and studs are an neccesary evil for safety reasons.

I wish I lived another 100 miles north for the better snow conditions where I wouldnt use studs. So Im saying, if your conditions give you good snow to run in, avoid using studs. If you encounter lots of rock hard or ice covered trails, then they are a safer way to go, and hooking up is a benefit.

1. Where do I find a template? If not, do I modify one?
2. Do I use double studs/backers?
3. Do I need to raise suspension?
4. Check picture below, would you stud this track? just some of the lugs are ripped off, not many.

#1-Templates are worthless and waste of money, use your imagination.
#2-You can and it is a good idea but not manditory
#3-YES! You need to lower the upper set of wheels 1" [if you have them]
otherwise check closely for tunnel clearance and add 1" tunnel protectors too.
#4-Personally I dont like studs anymore after going paddle but thats just me. Your track looks pretty worn as far as much for "snow" traction but if it is not ripped and the clips are ok then stud away..........

Seing as I cant find anything to reflect 120 pattern down the middle, is anything wrong with the following pattern for 120 studs down the middle? This pattern would assume you have 5 postions on each row and use postion 2,3,4 for the first row and 1,5 for the second.

...
. .
...
. .
...
. .

Also, anyone have luck using 96 studs down the middle on 600/700 class sleds?

Mika - thx for the advice, I`m tring to be creative here. Also, what do you mean by move the upper wheels? Why would it matter if they are inside the track?

Thx

SK 1- On the ZX models, it isn't nesseccary to lower your idler wheels. I've been using studs on mine since I've owned it with ZERO problems. How long of studs are you planning on using? If you're new to studding then it would probably be wise to get a template and mark the track first before you drill just to be sure. 96 would work but 144 down the middle(3 per row) seems to be more popular with the HP you have. You can always add if you feel you don't have enough. Alot depends on your riding style.

You should be able to get a template at any dealer or try Dennis Kirk or Shade Tree or one of the other aftermarket parts suppliers.

zx sleds dont even have those idlers, that was an S chassis issue.

If it were mine i would stud it, no questions asked. 96 studs may be on the low side. I have a 700 mxz as well. The stock track seems to spin a lot. I ended running 192 on the stocker. If you run to few studs there is more pressure on each stud, this making them more likely to pull out. I would run at least 144. don't forget to install tunnel protectors. BTW i ended switching my track out for a 1 1/4". Big difference. Any snowmobile dealer should be able to get you a template. Good luck