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POLARIS GOVERNMENT & DEFENSE
HELP CENTER
01/26/2024

2018-2021 AXYS XCR Drive Belt Deflection Inspection and Adjustment

Required Tools and Supplies
Shop RagsTape Measure
1/8-Inch Allen Wrench7/16-Inch Wrench
Torque WrenchStraight Edge
Safety GlassesNitrile Gloves


To learn more about tools, read the Tools and Fasteners Guide

Always wear safety glasses and nitrile gloves when servicing your Polaris snowmobile.

To inspect and adjust the drive belt tension on your Polaris AXYS XCR, follow these steps. Always measure belt deflection with both clutches at rest in their full neutral position.

1. Park the snowmobile on a flat, level surface.

2. Remove the left side panel by releasing the rubber strap and turning the two quarter-turn latches. Pull the panel out and lift up to remove.

3. Next, place a straight edge on the belt.

4. Then apply downward pressure between the clutches to measure the deflection. The deflection should be 1¼ inches (3.2 cm).

5. If adjustment is needed, remove the clutch spreader tool and spread the panels apart as needed. 

6. Next, loosen the jam nut on the belt width adjuster with a 7/16-inch wrench.

7. Using an 1/8-inch Allen wrench, turn the set screw inward to increase the distance between the sheaves or outward to decrease the distance.

8. Once deflection has been set, hold the set screw and lightly tighten the jam nut.

9. Next, spread the clutch half an inch.

10. Then torque the jam nut to 12 ft-lbs (16 Nm).

11. Next, remove the straight edge.

12. Then remove the clutch spreader tool while spinning the belt clockwise. Reinstall the clutch spreader tool.

13. Recheck belt deflection and repeat this process as needed.

14. Next, reinstall the side panel by inserting the tabs at the bottom and top. 

15. Finally, secure the rubber strap and latch the two quarter-turn latches.

For more information, see your authorized Polaris Dealer. To find a dealer near you, use the Dealer Locator.
Maintenance tips, procedures and specifications can be found in your Owner's Manual.
To find diagrams and replacement part numbers, use the online parts catalog.

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