Information on Snowmobile Studs

Snowmobile studs are metal spikes that are attached to the rubber track of a snowmobile to improve traction. The studs allow faster acceleration, quicker stopping and better control in turns. Many different styles and products are available. Selection of a product depends on the type of riding that you do and the terrain you ride on. If you install them yourself, a typical installation will cost between $100 to $200. Studs offer an opportunity to significantly increase riding enjoyment and snowmobile performance.

  1. Advantages

    • Studs offer a dramatic increase in traction on hard-packed trails and ice. Studs reduce the spinning of the track under aggressive acceleration, decrease the likelihood of getting stuck and allow tighter turns and skid-free stops. They allow a snowmobile to climb hills that were previously impossible to climb. Control of the snowmobile is increased and riding is safer.

    Disadvantages

    • Disadvantages to studs include a decrease in top speed and track longevity. The snowmobile with studs must have a tunnel protector to protect the tunnel that the track runs through. Some areas prohibit snowmobilers from riding with studs. The chance of getting rear-ended during a panic stop is increased.

    Types of Studs

    • Studs are available with steel alloy or premium hardened military-grade stainless steel bodies. Most studs have a carbide tip and a tungsten carbide center that is brazed into the alloy steel body. Solid steel, aluminum and titanium studs are available for ice riding only and will quickly become dull on any other surface. A typical stud has a head diameter of 1 inch and a body diameter of 7 millimeters or 5/16 inch. The 7 millimeter body diameter is used for light use and the 5/16 inch is for heavier use. For all-around use, 5/16 inch is normally recommended. The protrusion length of the stud is 1/4 inch for trail riding and 3/8 inch for more aggressive riding. Studs typically cost from $.75 to $1 each.

    Types of Backers

    • The backer is the washer that sandwiches the track; the head of the stud is on the outside of the track and the backer is on the inside. Steel backers will take serious punishment but are not popular because of their weight. Aluminum backers are the most popular for racing and aggressive riding. Nylon backers are used for general trail riding and offer longer stud life than aluminum or steel.

    Selection

    • Riding style, riding location and personal characteristics will influence your selection of type of stud. Typically 100 to 175 studs are used per track. The number used will depend on the width and length of the track and the type of riding you do. Heavier riders and more aggressive riding require more studs. Generally, start with fewer studs; if more are needed, they can be added later. Adding too many studs can cause the track to chatter.