Tucker metal track conversion?

I've got a fully restored 1967 Tucker long-track.

It is happiest going about 6mph anything faster and it sounds like the tracks want to revolt. There is allot of weight spinning around!

Is there a conversion to rubber tracks that I could get for a reasonable price that is long and offers as much flotation, but that would allow me to go 15-25 MPH ? I assume that would require some re-gearing too. Has anyone done this and what needed to be done to perfect the modification ?

Have been completely amazed at where this thing will go! Have not found snow that it cannot traverse...

If you're talking something like I did, then yes it can be done. Originally it was a Tucker mod and there was a documented procedure from them on how to do it with "a kit" that they once produced. Nowadays, you're best bet is to find a parts cat with the track system that you want then swap out the track/axle assemblies.

Long read, but you'll see what I did to my '53 443;
http://www.forumsforums.com/3_9/showthread.php?t=41808

There was also a thread on here last week about a Bombi-bus that was up for auction in an estate sale in Western Colorado. The owner also has a Tucker parts rig that may be a potential track system donor for your rig. Just a thought... http://www.forumsforums.com/3_9/showthread.php?t=49852


.

Thats an awesome rig you've got!

What kind of cruise speed do you get in that ? I'd like to be able to cruise along in fresh powder or groomed trails at 15-20.

I'll have a look at that auction site.

Have you had to use your winch much ? I can't imagine getting ours stuck, it does so incredibly well with the long pontoon version we have.

Keeping in mind I have the 251cid engine and my axles are geared for a 265cid, I've 'cruised' mine at 16-18mph at 10,000ft. That was on level ground, back-tracking in my own fresh tracks in deep powder.

Since I just finished my cat last December (if you can ever really call them 'finished') I have yet to use my winch. I did stuff it in a tree-well trying to climb up a really steep slope, but it easily backed out and made it the second try (got away from that damned tree!).

On a different note, I found if you tension your steel tracks to the point you can pull hard on a grouser and get the 2 rollers about 1/2" away from the rails on the nose, then they are a lot quieter/smoother. No, it's not too tight either. Too tight is when you can't pull them through by hand with the track/pontoon completely off the ground.


.