CVT Belt & Clutch Service

The CVT (continuously variable transmission) on a Can-Am, Polaris, or Arctic Cat side-by-side is the drivetrain's most overlooked wear system. The belt, primary clutch, and secondary clutch work together to deliver power smoothly across the RPM range, but the belt is a consumable part and the clutch weights, rollers, and springs all wear with heat and mileage. Neglecting CVT service leads to belt slip, poor acceleration, or a belt failure that strands you mid-trail.

What's Included

• CVT cover removal and interior inspection for debris, water, and belt dust buildup
• Belt width measurement and visual inspection for cracking, glazing, or fraying
• Belt replacement with correct manufacturer-spec belt (never a generic universal belt)
• Primary clutch (drive) inspected — rollers, ramps, and weights checked for wear
• Secondary clutch (driven) inspected — helix and spring condition checked
• Clutch alignment/offset check where adjustable
• CVT housing cleaned of belt dust and debris before reassembly

Symptoms of CVT Wear

• Belt squeal on takeoff, especially in mud or water
• Bogging or delayed engagement from a stop
• Burning smell after hard use (belt slip generating heat)
• Visible cracks or glazing on belt sidewalls

Belt Replacement Interval

Most manufacturers recommend belt inspection every 50 hours and replacement around 500–1,000 km or at the first sign of wear, whichever comes first. Riders who frequently run in deep mud or water should inspect more often — water intrusion accelerates belt glazing and clutch corrosion. We always keep a spare belt on hand for common Can-Am models.