Parts of a Snowmobile
Carl Eliason built the first snowmobile in 1924, giving it 2.5-horsepower outboard engine. Since then, sleds have changed dramatically as improvements in technology became available. The modern snowmobile can travel at speeds of more than 60 mph on extremely rough terrain. Because snowmobiles must weather adverse conditions and can take you well away from civilization, they must be sturdy and dependable pieces of equipment. As of 2011, all modern snowmobiles have similar components.
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Engine
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All snowmobiles have engines that provide the power necessary to turn the track. Depending on the manufacturer, a snowmobile can have either a two- or four-stroke motor. Two-stroke motors tend to have more horsepower per pound of weight but are typically less dependable. The four-stroke motor is more dependable and fuel efficient but weighs more. These engines produce between 75 and 160 horsepower and can accelerate a snowmobile at a startling pace.
Track
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The snowmobile's track is one of the components that allow it to travel over snow. Because of its large contact with the ground, it provides a great deal of traction in situations where the ground has little. Tracks vary in length, width and paddle height depending on application. A long track with a deep paddle is typically used for off-trail riding, where the snowmobile will see unpacked snow and varying terrain. A shorter track with smaller paddles works well for trail riding because it allows more maneuverability in this situation. Many riders install steel studs in their tracks, designed to provide additional traction in icy conditions. These studs can shorten the life of the track due to the added stresses.
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Clutches
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A snowmobile transmission uses two clutches --- a primary and secondary clutch. The primary clutch is fastened to the engine's driveshaft, and the secondary clutch is fastened to the track. The power travels from one clutch to the other via a drive belt. The clutches vary their position, which moves the belt up and down their internal "V" shaped surface and changes the diameter of the clutch, in turn varying the speed delivered to the track.
Skis
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Snowmobiles have two skis positioned on the front of the machine. These provide the steering capabilities and allow the front of the snowmobile to glide over the snow. Each ski has one or two steel carbide runners installed on the bottom of the ski. The carbines dig into the snow and ice, allowing the driver to turn the snowmobile. These carbides can wear quickly and require periodic changing to maintain the steering characteristics. Considering the slippery environment in which a snowmobile works, the skis provide a great deal of traction for turning.
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References
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