Yamaha Rhino or Viking jerks on take-off: belt and clutch
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Applies to: Yamaha Rhino 660/700, Viking 700 and other Ultramatic UTVs
Symptoms
- Lurches or jerks when you first press the gas
- Shudder at low speed
- Squeal or burning smell from the belt case
Why it happens
The Ultramatic belt stays engaged, so a glazed or worn belt, dirty sheaves or a worn centrifugal clutch grab unevenly instead of taking up smoothly.
How to fix it
- Check idle speed against the manual.
- Remove the belt cover and inspect the belt; replace if glazed or under width.
- Clean the sheaves and inspect the centrifugal clutch shoes.
- Check the belt case seals and drain for water.
Tools and parts
- Drive belt
- Calipers
- Brake cleaner
What the factory service manual covers
V-belt automatic transmission: belt limits, clutch inspection, idle spec. The full procedure, specs and wiring diagrams are in the factory service manual for your machine.