Snowmobile carbides are important in your snowmobile. They are wear surfaces with sharp edges. They are attached to the bottom of the metal rods (or wear bars) on the skis for achieving good steering on the ice and the hard packed snow and also to prevent darting of the sled. They wear out often and hence require replacements or periodical sharpening.
What Are The Carbides Made Of?
The snowmobile carbides are made from metal matrix composite. The carbides are in constant contact with the ground and so the material used should have good durability otherwise, they would wear out even earlier. However, you should keep in mind that whatever be the material, the snowmobile carbides won’t last forever.
When To Replace The Snowmobile Carbides?
In most cases, the carbides of your snowmobile will last around a good 2000-4000 miles. The factors on which this depends is: the design of the carbide, the quality of the material, and the type of terrain you use for your regular rides. If you are regularly out in the road, then the carbides are set to bear maximum wear and tear and would last only around 1000miles. Now if you are always riding in good snow conditions, with the carbides given proper care, then they would last more than about 7000 miles. Although, this is a rare case, it is sure that your carbide will work longer. So it is better get your snowmobile carbides replaced every year with due consideration to safety. Or to have an additional set pre-hand in case you may need one in the snowmobiling season.
Remember that if your carbides wear out, you may lose steering control, which can lead to dangerous situations. The most common sign of a worn out carbide will be your sled losing control more often or the sled starts darting or drifting. In such conditions, go for a carbide replacement as soon as possible. Due to safety concerns, it is always better to get the carbides replaced regularly.
Snowmobile Carbide Sharpener
Snowmobile Carbide Sharpeners are small diamond fitted grinders which can be mounted on a cordless drill. They can sharpen the edges of the carbide. But you can’t expect magic out of the sharpener and expect it to turn a completely worn out carbide into a good working carbide. If you feel like the carbides are in bad shape, it is better to get it replaced rather than wasting time on sharpening.
Do I Need Carbides?
There are people who claim it is better to not invest money on carbides as they are not so worth it. This is the case mainly with the off trail riders. So, while many riders may feel it is comfortable to ride without carbides, it is always better to have them in your wear rods so that you have a safe ride. With carbides on, even if you hit an ice patch, you will seldom lose control.
Factors To Be Kept In Mind Before Choosing Carbides For Your Snowmobile
The carbide which is best suited for your sled will depend on many factors. They include factors like the type the terrain you ride regularly, the type of riding you are in and your skills, the sled you use, your weight and whether you track is studded or not.
Size Of Carbides You Need
The size of the carbide required will depend on the sled you use and the riding style. In most cases, 4” carbides are required in case you ride in powder. In case of intermediate riders, 6” carbides are a good choice. 6” carbides will also suit sleds with tracks having 96-144 studs. However, if the studs in your track are more than 144, then you may better go for an 8” carbide.
Do check the sleds manual as they can have recommendations or even restrictions on the carbides that can be used.
There are many aftermarket options available in the market with regard to the snowmobile carbides. Let us have a look at some of the best options you could get your hands on.
Woody’s Trail Blazer Carbide
The Woody’s Trail Blazer Carbide featuring 6 inch of 60° carbide is an entry level type carbide runner which can suit un-studded and slightly studded snowmobiles. They offer safety and control for both the options. They have a 1/2” host runner with Flat-Top design. The Trail Blazer offers excellent cornering control even at high speeds. All the three carbide inserts have the full length hardweld surface which provides extended wear resistance. It should be noted that for some skis it may require an additional hole to be drilled. You can check the website for fitment details.
Woody’s Trail Blazer Carbide
Stud Boy Super Stock Carbide Wear Rods
The Stud Boy Carbide Wear Rods has four inches of 90 degree control carbide which is built to offer long-lasting steering control. They have front and rear carbide wear pads. The model comes with a large ½ inch diameter host bar. With the angled cut at the rear of the bar, you can have easier unloading. For fitment details, you can check the website.
Stud Boy Super Stock Carbide Wear Rods
Kimpex Carbide Wear Rods
Kimpex Carbide Wear Rods come with a three inch carbide. They are a high abrasion, resistant bar stock. With the 90 degree tapered carbide design, you will get longer life not only for the carbide, but also for the bar. Made as per OEM specifications, they are painted black enamel. For fitment details, you can have a check at the website.
Kimpex Carbide Wear Rods
Sno-Stuff X Calibar II Carbide Wear Rods
The Carbide Wear Bars from Sno-Stuff four inches of 60º center carbide for control. They have hardweld filler sections between the front and the rear carbide for durability. The one inch carbide wear pads at the front and the rear offer even more wear resistance. For fitment details, visit the website.
Sno-Stuff X Calibar II Carbide Wear Rods
Bottom Line 6 inch Trail Series Carbide Wear Rods
The Bottom Series 6 inch Trail Series Carbide Wear Rods have a 7/16” high carbon steel flat top host bar to prevent “ball roll” during cornering. They have a 75 degree 6 inch controlling carbide. They have the hard-weld filler at the front and the rear carbide which adds to the durability of the model. Designed as per OEM specifications, they have mounting studs with nyloc nut. They are chamfered so that catching is reduced during unloading.
Bottom Line 6 inch Trail Series Carbide Wear Rods
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