Let's start with a simple fact: heat damages CVT belts.
That’s right, those costly belts that are engineered to withstand high temperatures and heavy loads aren't immortal. So, the question is: At what point does this damage occur? In other words: how hot is too hot?
Based on our research and reports from other UTV enthusiasts, most heat damage tends to occur beyond the 200-210° range. That said, preventing heat damage and belt wear is more complicated than simply avoiding 200°+ temperatures, because temperature isn’t the only factor — it’s also the duration of time spent at the temperature.
High temperatures are destructive to belt life because belts are predominantly comprised of neoprene (rubber). Temperatures in excess of 200° will alter the properties of your belt, resulting in a harder and stiffer belt once the belt cools. This reduction in elasticity inevitably results in a much shorter use-life for the belt.
On our RZR at the shop, we see an average of 200° on our rides, and we have logged over 1000 miles on that belt. From talking with people that ride in the low 200°s, they’re seeing about the same type of belt life, whereas people that ride under 200 degrees can put thousands of miles on their belts without a problem.
The 3.2 Edition Infrared Belt Temp Gauge
The 3.2 Dimmable Gauge is the latest & greatest version of our patented, thermally compensated, infrared belt temperature gauge design. This gauge allows for real-time monitoring of belt surface temperature, and features multicolor LED temperature alerts. On the anti-glare LCD screen you'll be able to easily monitor current, average, high belt temperatures and the speed percentage of our all-new Razorback Cooling Fan. Our gauge was designed so that you can ride with confidence; You'll be able to know how hard you're pushing your ride, and how much harder you can push it.
The All-New Belt Cooling Fan
The Belt Cooling Fan Kit is a smart temperature control system for the CVT clutch belt for your UTV. Push for greater performance than ever knowing your belt will stay at the optimum temperature for long life. The fan is designed to push 2-3x more air than our competitors' fans due to the smart temperature control. This is the only belt cooling system in the industry with built in infrared technology, which can read true belt surface temps regardless of air temperature. Stock air temp sensors get it wrong as soon as air starts moving, but infrared stays true. This puts you in control of your true belt temp for maximum performance lifespan.
Tell Us What Temps You're Seeing
We’re compiling belt temperature reports that will reflect what riders can expect in terms of belt temperature as they ride and we need your help! We’ll be the first to acknowledge that not all belts are the same, just as no two UTVs or their drivers are the same. So, we’re trying to involve as many people as possible, to ensure our findings are accurate.
We want to see what belt temperatures you’re noticing as you ride: average, highest recorded, and if/when your belt broke.
As more data comes in, we’ll be able to create more specialized reports so you can know what temperatures other riders are seeing on different terrains or with different mods on their rides.
Help us build this free online resource by sharing your observed temperatures today!
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