[horsa]

Hey John,

I haven't done much research on the problem yet since the vehicle, and now the rebuilt tracks, are down at the ranch so I can't stare at them. We had the later type 55 grouser tracks on the vehicle and the set I rebuilt to install is the earlier 56 grouser track. I haven't laid them side by side but did the math when I got home after failing to get the new tracks installed. The 55 grouser track should be roughly 4 inches longer than the 56 grouser track if I recall correctly. So that is part of the problem. Searching the archives on the Weasel forum I ran across multiple discussions in theory but only sketchy references to there being smaller diameter drive and idler wheels for the earlier 56 grouser tracks. Haven’t seen much about there being different sprockets but that could also be an issue.

All this being said, I still haven't called Tom or any of the other people that might know for sure what the best course of action would be. Figure at this point since the tracks are rebuilt and the old ones really aren't useable, I need to proceed with changing out whatever other hard parts need to go. Hopefully it will be minimal but my luck isn't usually that good.

The way I change a track is to completely compress the suspension by jacking up a paired set of bogie wheels and then blocking the leaf spring so it can't relax. Takes awhile going back and forth with the jacks but eventually I get one side flattened out. The rebuilt tracks are about half an inch short of fitting with everything compressed. Likely more tension could get them on but then the suspension would still be compressed so I know it’s not right that way. Using this method, I can install or remove the old 55 grouser track by myself. Although it’s a bit of a strain. Course this time the track was already off since it had broken and come off while the vehicle was running. Guess my brother will later take credit for helping me remove the old track….