Studding a 1989 Wildcat - Snowmobile Forum: Your #1 Snowmobile Forum

hardwaterangler · 10-16-2006, 10:11 AM

I'll admit that I'm a novice at this. Got this sled for icefishing

I would like to install some .875 inch studs on my stock 89 Wildcat. Can anyone tell me if I would need to make any modifications to do this? Do I need tunnel protectors and if so, do you have to take the track out to install these? This sled has 2100 miles and the original track I'm sure. I was hoping to install 96 studs to improve traction on the ice.

thanks for any help.

tamacat · 10-16-2006, 10:29 AM

Make sure the track is in good condition. No dry rotting or tears. You don't need modifications but you may have to us a certain pattern depending on the tunnel. You can do this yourself, it just takes a while. You'll have to get a special cutter to drill the holes also. Since the engine is a 700, you might want to go with 144 studs instead. Not enough studs with an engine that size could result in the studs being ripped out of the track making it weaker.
Hope the info helps!!! And welcome to SF.

**RJ Gleason** · 10-17-2006, 11:59 AM

If the track is the original, your best bet is not to excede the lug hight by 1/4 in.
You should not need higher tunner protectors with the orighinal track.