Tempting Fate?

[mswyka]

Looking to add a new track to a 1981 Invader.  Checking the bulkhead clearance it looks like we have just about 2" clear.  The track is 1-23/64" from the back of the track to the tip of the studs.  So the question is whether 5/8" is enough of a factor of safety or am I tempting fate and the potential shredding of the bulkhead and tunnel?  So far I have only run OEM tracks and I shudder to think what 144 studs strafing a tunnel might sound like.

[gixxer6]

How tall are the internal drive nubs on the track?  If it ratchets, it will raise off the drive sprockets by that amount. 

[Interceptor398]

I'd say your pushing your luck but some times we get lucky??

[mswyka]

How tall are the internal drive nubs on the track?  If it ratchets, it will raise off the drive sprockets by that amount.

I haven't yet done a measure, but that is a good thought.  I am thinking that to be safe I may need to keep the track tension tighter than stock.

[Interceptor398]

I wonder if there are drive hubs just a bit smaller??

[mswyka]

I wonder if there are drive hubs just a bit smaller??

Interesting idea, smaller diameter drive coupled with steeper gears.  I will need to do some homework.

[gixxer6]

Wasn't there a member on here that had built some mountain sled kawasaki's?  Boomologist?  Seems like they had 2" lug long tracks on them. 

If it were me, I'd remove the studs.  That track looks very aggressive to start with...You'd be surprised at the improvement over a stock saw tooth Kaw track.  I love my 1" Camoplast Hacksaw track on my modified 440 Invader, the best mod I have ever done to a Kaw.  Unless you plan to run on the ice, or very icy trails the studs are just going to be added weight and that track is going to already be significantly heavier than the stocker. 

[mswyka]

Wasn't there a member on here that had built some mountain sled kawasaki's?  Boomologist?  Seems like they had 2" lug long tracks on them. 

If it were me, I'd remove the studs.  That track looks very aggressive to start with...You'd be surprised at the improvement over a stock saw tooth Kaw track.  I love my 1" Camoplast Hacksaw track on my modified 440 Invader, the best mod I have ever done to a Kaw.  Unless you plan to run on the ice, or very icy trails the studs are just going to be added weight and that track is going to already be significantly heavier than the stocker.

I seem to remember something, but I read it many years ago.

[mswyka]

I wonder if there are drive hubs just a bit smaller??

Interesting idea, smaller diameter drive coupled with steeper gears.  I will need to do some homework.

Checked Kimpex and 7 teeth was their smallest sprocket

[Interceptor398]

I have heard before that a 1 inch lug track can make a big difference.