ATV and UTV Belt issues
Many questions arise these days about belt issues on ATV's and UTV's. Is my belt under warranty? How long is a belt supposed to last? Why do I keep breaking my belt. Several factors can contribute to belt issues on ATVs and UTV's and below are some ways to prevent issues.
Normal Wear and Tear: Over time, the drive belt will naturally wear out due to regular use. The belt's lifespan depends on factors such as riding conditions, maintenance, and the quality of the belt itself. We have seen some belts last 100's of hours if maintained correctly and some last within the first 5 mins of driving.
What gear you drive in matters! : The rule of thumb is - High gear for hard packed ground - Low gear for loose ground - When driving under significant load, towing, mudding or loose soil make sure to drive in low gear to prevent belt failures. When not under significant load or on a hard ground high gear will work best.
Contamination: Dirt, mud, sand, and other debris can get into the ATV's belt housing and cause abrasion, leading to accelerated wear and potential belt failure. This is the number one cause we see for premature belt failure. Occasionally you may hit a large mud hole and ingest water or debris into the belt box causing the belt to slip and the vehicle not to move. DO NOT attempt to keep accelerating, you must drain the housing and clean the cvt to prevent further issues!
Overheating: Continuous operation at high temperatures can cause the belt to overheat and degrade. This can be a result of aggressive riding, towing heavy loads, or inadequate ventilation in the belt housing. Belts running at over 200 degrees for an extended period of time will cause the belt to fail.
Clutch Issues: Problems with the ATV's clutch system, such as a worn clutch rollers or a bad bearing, can lead to belt issues. The clutch is responsible for engaging and disengaging the drive belt, so any problems here can affect belt performance.
Misalignment: If the ATV's components, such as the engine, driven pulley, or driven clutch, are not properly aligned, it can put additional stress on the belt and cause premature wear.
Water Damage: Submerging an ATV in water can lead to water entering the belt housing. Water can cause the belt to slip, and if left unaddressed, it can lead to corrosion and reduced belt lifespan.
Low-Quality Belts: Using low-quality or worn-out belts can contribute to premature failure. It's essential to use high-quality, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket belts recommended for your ATV model.
Is my belt covered under warranty: This question is asked all to often and unfortunately it is traditionally met with a no. Warranty covers defects in products or craftsmanship and belts are typically considered a wear item. Based on what the belt and clutch look like can guide a dealer or manufacturer in diagnosing how the belt failed. IF your belt fails due to improper use, hourglass, ingesting water or mud it will not be covered. HOWEVER there is occasions when you do have a faulty component of the clutch, clutch sealing system or a defective belt from the factory that could than be considered a covered component.
To prevent belt issues, regular maintenance is crucial. This includes checking and adjusting belt tension, inspecting for signs of wear or damage, cleaning the belt housing, and addressing any clutch or alignment issues promptly. Additionally, following the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance and avoiding harsh riding conditions can help prolong the life of the ATV's drive belt. For more information please contact one of our helpful service department reps at 305-557-1311.