Hey all, after a summer so far split between San Antonio and Oklahoma, I can't stop thinking about snow. So, I thought I'd put forth an idea for a mod sled I've been kicking around for a while. The goal is to create something ultra-light that'll be easy to ride in any amount of snow, mostly backwoods and hills and such. Not concerned about speed, climbing mountains, or ice.
What I've got is two mostly complete 80's Indy Trails and an 02 RMK 136 x 1-3/4 skid and track (part of the thought process is that I've wanted to swap a 144 into my RMK for a while). One of the motors is a 488 fan; complete, but in need of rebuild. I think that should be enough power to run that track with a gearing change, but not sure how much on that. I've got an old P-85 that might have issues (hasn't been run since who knows when) and a Comet that worked before the older motor burned a piston. I've heard many times that there's nothing doing for performance on the fans, so I'm not expecting much more. Still, I might do a little tweaking. Just clean up the ports and transitions a little. Also, DG performance makes a pipe for 90's 488 fans that could be easily adapted; might be worth it for the weight savings.
The plan would be to start by rebuilding the engine, strip and refinish the chassis on the better of the two Indys, then simplify and add lightness. Gone will be the stock hood, original headlight and gauges, oil injection, original seat, handlebars, and steel skis (may do a hand-me-down from the RMK on that too). Mountain Fit lists a poly hood that looks promising. I'd probably put LEDs on for lighting, not much weight there. For instrumentation, a digital cluster like the ones KOSO or Trail Tech make would be cool, but not sure how those handle cold and snow.
Anyway, just wondering if this seems like a worthwhile combination, and/or what to look out for. I'm guessing the trickiest part would be swapping the track, the rest seems like mostly nuts and bolts. Love to hear your thoughts!
My mountain goat sled idea
