Snowmobile Wheels & Bearings

Are there any particular parts I should pay close attention to when inspecting my snowmobile?

Often, riders tend to ignore the idler wheels at inspection time. Take a look at the spinning idler wheels at your rear suspension. Are the wheel and the rubber in fair condition? Or are they showing signs of wear? Now, have a look at the condition of the bearing. These wheels are constantly exposed to water, ice and snow. They get hot and expand, then get cold and contract. That's a lot of stress. Repeat this many times and water gets sucked in past the seals, leading to the bearings getting harder. Eventually, they'll lose their lubrication and corrode. Next comes the dreaded fatal lock-up.