DIY Track Sled From Start to Finish- Ice Fishing Machine!!!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Here is the Gear Reduction and Speed Calculator I used in the video! docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1bgJREWpNH_9nR9DeMKCeoG_nZ7DKRmOO/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=114109964308300154731&rtpof=true&sd=true

[@FishfearmeStudios]

That was impressive. I was shocked how well it went up the hill and handled

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

I was surprised with how well it did going up that hill as well! It was a super steep hill, and the video doesn't do it justice. Carving it in that deep powder was a lot of fun!

[@jordanporritt5583]

Glad it all worked out, nice work! Good job documenting the build as well.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Thanks for all your help man! You definitely made the build a lot easier for me. I just got done ripping it around the neighborhood pulling me on my longboard😂

[@feekey21]

Appreciate when content creators take the time to reply to comments. Thanks.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@feekey21 Nothing bugs me more than commenting on a video and getting a reply several months later😂 Hope you enjoyed this video🎣

[@machinesandthings7121]

Great work! I'm impressed with the torque, and climbing ability. Thanks for putting up the build vid.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

I've been on a few trips now where it'll haul 500 pounds worth of gear up a hill to get back to the truck after icefishing. It's been awesome!

[@PatterningNature]

That was pretty neat man - Good job!!!! Never watched you before but that was great to watch. I love how honest you are "I don't know how to get this off, but we will figure it out"... Love the optimism!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@PatterningNature Thank you! I made this video because I got tired of looking up all these resources on how to make one. I could never find all the information in one spot, so I tried making this video as thorough and honest as possible. I'm trying to get through pharmacy school as well so I had to keep it simple, and as cheap as possible haha. I'll have to watch some of your videos. I plan to use this track sled for coyote hunting and trapping as well.

[@PatterningNature]

@@shandonbradfordoutdoors When in doubt... do it yourself, eh!?!?! Best of luck in school my friend!!! I will sub to you - I cannot wait for your trapping to begin!!! My focus is hunting Wolves with my Rifle over a bait, but I just got my trappers licence so now I am going to do some snaring!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@PatterningNature Awesome! Ya I'll definitely check it out then

[@firehades2007]

Loved this build, great to see what people can do with modifying older parts for new purposes.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@firehades2007 Thanks! It's been an awesome machine! Definitely a game changer for ice fishing.

[@isickofit]

Clever use of a knackered machine! And a great workhorse.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@isickofit Thanks! It's been awesome for ice fishing already!

[@joebufford2972]

Oh boy man. You just use what you got and every little piece and that's how we did it. Make it go!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@joebufford2972 Yup! Make it stupid simple

[@thorntonart]

Minnesota Mike diggin this🤙🤙🤙

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@thorntonart thanks!

[@hotratz69]

Excellent, Thanks for the ride! YEE HAA!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Thanks for watching!

[@Evilslayer73]

Pretty cool little Mad Max snowmobile the engine is not bogging down at all im really impressed !very simple to build! salutation from Montreal,Québec!!have fun!!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Haha, I hadn't thought about that but it totally is Mad Max looking😂 I've since painted it which makes it look a little nicer. It's got plenty of power and torque, I'll lose traction before I lose anything else. It was a fun build and has been an awesome machine!

[@mmuller2402]

Cvt 🎉

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@mmuller2402 Works great!🎉

[@baitnbullets]

Dude, you're a genius! What a project! Looks great Shandon! I love the hitch rack to transport it. Good job man orange and black would look amazing!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Thanks man! I'm excited to see what she can do on future trips! It'll We be a game changer getting to new places. It was a fun build!

[@artzi_ip]

does it bother you when driving, that most of the weight is on the other side ? meaning do you have to keep it up at soft snow ?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@artzi_ip I was going to add a tool box on the opposite side of the engine to counter that, but my chain case actually balances it out perfectly! Because it was already balanced I ended up mounting the tool box/ammo can in the center. It rides great in deep powder

[@ahahanic6490]

Now this is pod racing

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Haha, it's been a fun machine

[@tysenbelnap9300]

You’re officially a certified GOAT

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Haha thanks man! If you're still building one, I'm excited to see how it turns out!

[@senorjp21]

Very complete video. I'm a bit surprised you removed the suspension - thought it would help traction to keep it

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@senorjp21 Thank you! I got tired of having to look at a handful of sources so wanted to make it as complete as possible. It seems like keeping or removing the suspension is a hot debate. I've read that removing it makes it easier to turn and make it less tipsy because it's lower to the ground. I have a buddy that left his suspension in and I'll have to compare the two.

[@rona6063]

That looks like a snowmobile with extra steps.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@rona6063 Haha, ya. Good way to put it. You build one because of the perks. It doesn't need to be registered in a lot of states, it can be used on dry land for hauling elk/deer/decoys, it can be taken on 3 inches of ice, you can haul it on a cargo carrier, so no need for a snowmobile. It's stupid easy to fix, and stupid cheap to replace parts (motor is only $150). They're way more reliable than any old snowmobile. It's a game changer for ice fishing! I can go where I want and haul as much as I want now. No need to walk everything out.

[@troymoravec6552]

that was pretty darn neat! I'm thinking I should make one.... 🤔

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@troymoravec6552 You should! It's a fun and easy build! It's been a blast ripping it around too

[@RogerP-p8d]

NICE VERY NICE Well done Good Fishing To Guys be SAFE

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Thank you! It's been an awesome machine

[@sebastianzolnik6288]

Nice work, Shandon! That's going to be a great addition to your adventures.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Thanks man, I'll be able to keep up with you guys now😂 I just got the chain tensioner and ammo can full of tools mounted on tonight, so it'll be hitting the ice here soon hopefully

[@obi1kahnobee549]

Great job well done one of the best vids I have seen

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@obi1kahnobee549 Thank you! I really tried making this video a One-Stop shop and as thorough as I could. It's been an awesome machine this season already!

[@dr.froghopper6711]

I’d take those two skis and make outriggers for it!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@dr.froghopper6711 I've seen other posts of people doing that. It's a ton of fun carving in deep snow, so I wonder how the outriggers would affect that. Might make carving harder.

[@jaredboballen68]

That's freaking awesome. I love it when someone can take a broken down whatever and make it into something useful. You also saved yourself a bunch of money, too. I have a 1971 Skidoo with a 640 Rotax that is going to become something very similar. Wonder if I should start my own YT channel...

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@jaredboballen68 Thanks! It's a super simple and reliable machine! The great thing about it is if the motor ever breaks down, I can get a new one at Harbor Freight for 150 bucks. That sounds like a great donor sled to use! KZbin has been a lot of fun for me. I've met some great people through it, and it's opened up a lot of opportunities for me. Definitely a lot of work though! But it's cool saving these memories at the very least.

[@AaronBreen-m2i]

Did you use a 3/4” sprocket? Ordering parts. Your tractor supply link just goes to main page I’m working on a build now! Thanks in advance

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@AaronBreen-m2i My shaft has a 1 inch diameter so I got a 1 inch type B sprocket. The only thing I got from tractor supply was my #40 chain. Sprocket: Heat Treated Type B for #40 Roller Chain 36 Tooth - 1" Bore for $30.25 on redboarchain.com/collections/sprockets/Type-B

[@kenjustken5994]

Good job buddy that was awesome I enjoyed that

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Thanks for watching! It's been a game changer for ice fishing!

[@StacySalmans]

Heck yeah, great work Shandon. That's going to be a great addition to your adventures.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Thank you! I'm excited to get out to many different areas and lakes with it. It will definitely be a game changer!

[@wtfbonnie]

Dude that's awesome. Win!!!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Thanks! It's been an awesome machine! Game changer for ice fishing

[@BrentYuers]

Very cool dude, I want one.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@BrentYuers Thanks! It's been a great machine!

[@dlansburg2673]

I keep thinking about building one,nice job!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@dlansburg2673 It's a fun, and simple build! Easy to learn. Thank you! When you build one, message me on here if you have any questions👍

[@unclestu5960]

Good job on the build bud

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Thanks! It's been an awesome machine for ice fishing!

[@benmcrae9385]

Amazing video. Thank you

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@benmcrae9385 Thank you! Hope yours turns out well🔥

[@tbabajan]

Dude I've been wanting to make one just like this for a while just need a machine with a decent track to pop up on marketplace!!! good job looks like fun!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@tbabajan I just kept it nice and simple! It's a fun build, and a game changer for ice fishing

[@JohnSeaward]

In highschool wayyyyy back when just before they phased this part of the program out, we had to build a two track set up from scratch, and yes that included wiring in lights, hand warmers, brakes and the two seater tow behind seat/ tool box sled lol

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@JohnSeaward Dang, that would be such a sweet class!!! Having this machine in high school would have been a blast 😂

[@JohnSeaward]

@shandonbradfordoutdoors it was the last year that they offered this to the advance students, me I was done 5 yrs of course in 3 yrs so I became the t.a. for the last 2 yrs and just a lil fyi the long body gives you float ability in deep powder and a short body gives you power and fast turning and close quarters turning abilities, and back then we used Boogie wheels instead of a slider system which makes for a bit of a lighter body but at the end of the day it's more about using what you have and when u have it and make it work for you and always remember there will be failures but then also alot fun and learning to be had from doing these which can be a huuuuuge blast when it comes to play time or work time lol ( living as a kid we used firewood for heat and the work part was hooking up a sled throwing a chainsaw and axe and ropes into the sleigh and going to get wood, or using the track and motor portion to pull vehicles outta the back road ditches or snow drifts lol ) adventures of a northern Canadian kid growing up in the bush lol, anyhow great job and hope you many great adventures with your builds

[@coopernickerson7470]

Brilliantly made DIY dog less sled.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@coopernickerson7470 Thank you! It's been a blast having it so far

[@wolfbushcraft3369]

nice for camping, fishing etc

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@wolfbushcraft3369 Ya I love how you can take it on dry land and ice/snow! Great machine

[@iimillah1414]

Where did you get the sprocket from?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@iimillah1414 Oops sorry, I just realized it's not in the description. redboarchain.com/collections/sprockets?page=32&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiApY-7BhBjEiwAQMrrEagXG8xAEMkcc9oM43UKbp-ti3y4CC8m35t3WpqqOZ6emGFODXlm5xoCoX0QAvD_BwE

[@mattmarchand5115]

Nice work 👍

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Thank you!

[@Anger-i6n]

great build

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@Anger-i6n Thank you, thanks for watching!

[@AaronBreen-m2i]

Guess I just need some clarification.. where did you put the idler sprocket

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@AaronBreen-m2i Oh ok, I used that as my chain tensioner. If you email me I can send you pictures. I added the chain tensioner after I filmed this video. [e-mail]

[@BeatnTheSkunk]

Nice job!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@BeatnTheSkunk Thanks you! It's been a great machine

[@tchadoutdoors]

That a boy! That thing is sweet!!! 🔥🔥 excited for you to pull my crap out for me.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Thanks man! We're gonna make a LONG train behind it

[@Capn_Ben]

These cheap old snowmobile tunnels are sick, ask me how I know. Ill find out soon if twice the tracks is twice the fun. The powder performance you got was sick! it looks fun to lean. I am not a fisherman or hunter but I cant help but think the machine I built to haul my crap would be good for sportsman to haul gear and game.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Dang! Sounds like you have an awesome build you're working on! It's a ton of fun carving in the powder! It's been really awesome for Bowfishing, and waterfowl hunting already. Haven't hauled a deer or elk out with it yet, but will eventually. They can haul a lot of weight!

[@Capn_Ben]

@ Hey man, thanks for replying! I do have a pretty cool build and I just got it out in the snow in my first video. I didnt document my build as well as you but I would be stoked if you checked out my channel. I think my machine could haul heavy game through dense forest I am just not that kind of outdoorsman. Also bow fishing sound incredibly cool.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@Capn_Ben Oh sweet, I'll go check it out now! I would love to see it. Bowfishing is one of the funnest sports! Super fun, and a ton of action

[@racebanning6390]

Awesome🤙🤙Kool kuntraption🏁🏁❄️❄️

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@racebanning6390 That's! It's been fun

[@Converterguy]

Good job 👍

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@Converterguy Thank you! Thanks for watching

[@jaredeberle7117]

Thats freaking awsome

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@jaredeberle7117 Thanks! They are fun to build

[@_kewlbeans_]

Where did you find the gear ratio excel document? Did you create it? Would you share it?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@_kewlbeans_ It's on the Facebook group "Track sled builds of the North" under the files section. He's a link to the post. I could also share it with you over Google drive if the link doesn't work. facebook.com/share/p/15ML1QQeM8/

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Here's a google sheets link that should be easier. docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1bgJREWpNH_9nR9DeMKCeoG_nZ7DKRmOO/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=114109964308300154731&rtpof=true&sd=true

[@johnlogel7434]

Very impressive, would you ever share that "Gear reduction speed calculator" sheet?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@johnlogel7434 Ya I can share it with you, or you can also find it on the "Track Sled Builds of the North" Facebook page. Either or. Reply back with your Gmail if you prefer that.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1bgJREWpNH_9nR9DeMKCeoG_nZ7DKRmOO/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=114109964308300154731&rtpof=true&sd=true

[@willong1000]

Serious question from someone who doesn't live in your part of the country: Why? Is there some advantage over using a snowmobile towing a sled?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Where are you from? There are pros and cons of both. I can take a track sled on 3 inches of clear ice because of how light it is. I also don't need a trailer to haul it. Most people use hitch cargo carriers to haul them. They're super simple, cheap, and reliable. Snowmobiles for the same price are gonna be old and not as reliable. The motor on the track sled is only $150 US dollars brand new. I can also use it on dry ground/dirt to haul hunting decoys, haul elk/deer, or do garden chores. Cons: they're not as fast, and don't do well in slush.

[@resurrectiongarage1506]

It’s interesting for sure, seems to work well but I don’t understand why you’d rather use that than just pulling a sled behind a snowmobile.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@resurrectiongarage1506 This track sled is so much more reliable than an older snowmobile! It has a brand new motor. If something were to ever happen, just buy a new motor for $150. It's also just super simple to work on and fix. If you watch the end I can even haul it around behind a Toyota Corolla on a cargo carrier. No trailer needed. I have taken it on 3 inches of ice several times already as well, it only weighs 200 pounds and has a big footprint, so I'd fall thru walking out before it would. I also hunt a lot and can use it on dry dirt to haul out a deer or an elk. I can even use it to haul all my decoys and stuff out to duck hunt in a field.

[@resurrectiongarage1506]

@ I see your point, it is a lot simpler than a snowmobile, and transport would be easier. My curiosity has been answered. As a mechanic I tend to forget that what comes easy to me may not come easy to others. Plus I guess it would be pretty easy to mount an ammo can and keep spare recoil, ignition coil, spark plug and even a spare carburetor on board for your machine and it would be cheap, the parts I mentioned could be had for under fifty bucks. How hard is it on the knees ?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@resurrectiongarage1506 I was I had more mechanic knowledge that's for sure! It has an ammo can on it now with a spare chain, belt, and tools in it, but I didn't think about those other things. I'll have to start getting them! There are some pros and cons to both that's for sure though. Track sleds don't do as well in slush, and are obviously slower than snowmobiles. I don't find it hard on the knees at all, especially in powder. Some people make a seat for their sled to sit in as well while they're driving.

[@resurrectiongarage1506]

@ I’m an old lard ass, I better stick to snowmobiles. I used to race them 25 years ago, but that part of my life is gone now. I’ve seen devices like this in Russia but I always just figured they used them because they didn’t have the money for a snowmobile. I guess you could pull a wheeled trailer and use it in the summer too

[@davidevenson2242]

Yea it seems weird to me as well. You take a 50hp machine that you can sit on, tear it down. Then build something similar to the first one ever built. But why? From 50mph to 11. 😂

[@kristigeiger7469]

How did you put your track back together? Knowing the correct length and such of each bar to teplace the shocks? Do you measure the shocks prior to taking them out?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@kristigeiger7469 Putting the track back in was probably the hardest part😂 I measured the shocks at there compressed state so my track sled would sit as low as possible. I then replaced the shocks with square tubing. To put everything back together you have to use ratchet straps to line up the bolt holes. The skid doesn't just line up nice and easy with the tunnel. You have to put a lot of pressure on the skid to line all the bolt holes up with the ratchet straps.

[@reesescarrow380]

want to see this with a 600cc on it!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@reesescarrow380 I want to see how that would work too! It'd be super top heavy and tipsy tho probably

[@norcoredneck]

Is there a formula you used to calculate the sprocket size to buy link? Thanks.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@norcoredneck You want your gear ratio to be around 7 for ice fishing. Gear ratio closer to 6 will go faster but has less torque. A Gear ratio closer to 8 will have a lot of torque but will be slow. My pinned comment at the top is a link to the gear calculator

[@norcoredneck]

@ thanks for sharing the info.

[@WilliWimmer-n6e]

Absolut Cool. Respect. 🤩😍🙂🙃🙂👍💪👏

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@WilliWimmer-n6e Thank you! It's been an awesome machine!

[@WilliWimmer-n6e]

@@shandonbradfordoutdoors Absolut. 💪

[@Dogfather1]

That’s really cool perfect for the ice nice and lite 👍

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Oh ya, It's going to be super nice for ice fishing!

[@McCullochMac6]

Very cool...

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@McCullochMac6 Thanks! It's been awesome for icefishing and getting to different lakes!

[@raydreamer7566]

What was the reason for removing the sustention ?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@raydreamer7566 There's 2 reasons. It makes it easier to carve/turn, because you don't have to fight against it. Secondly it lowers your center of gravity making it less tipsy. If it's too high track sleds get tipsy and top heavy.

[@raydreamer7566]

@@shandonbradfordoutdoors Thank you for your reply and explanation.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@raydreamer7566 No problem! Sometimes people will keep the front suspension, but I've never driven one like that yet

[@whoblowsthere002]

Aside from tools you bought, how much did it cost? Also, are you happy with the HP to gear ratio or would you change anything with that if you were to build it again?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@whoblowsthere002 It cost me around $700-750. My donor sled was $200 though and I got a lot of my metal from Home Depot, which was a mistake. I should have gotten my metal from a metal market and it would have been a ton cheaper. Some people get their donor sleds for free or $100 too which cuts a huge cost. I'm really happy with the gear ratio! Plenty of torque and good speed. It hauled 500 lbs worth of gear and humans yesterday with ease. I could probably give up some torque for more speed. I'll lose traction before I lose power as of right now, so definitely could get a smaller sprocket and shoot for a gear ratio around 6

[@whoblowsthere002]

@@shandonbradfordoutdoors Thanks alot for the time you put into helping us vision our own build! Im moving off grid in the Adirondacks and foresee the need of a quick and easy ice machine for shorter trips. Im gonna be looking for the cheapest possible sled with a rolling track. Your right about the home depot LOL. Im almost done building my bandsaw mill, which I luckily hunted down facebook marketplace scrap yard that offered resale of useable box tubings and such at half price to metal suppliers. Home depots 3ft pieces are the same price as a 20ft piece lol its absolutely insane! I actually just got a free 7.5hp push mower which will be perfect for keeping my snowdog build cheap, would have to modify the oil pickup to be able to mount the motor sideways though. May fire up my other channel again and make videos when I do it, fabrication gets views!

[@iwejun]

You need a chain tensioner so it doesn’t jump.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@iwejun Ya I've now since added one, plus a bunch of other little things. If you're interested you can see how it looks now using the links below Ice fishing vid: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h3fNnotmi7-Jp7Msi=IUXIBcQO4bFQJQJE Goldfish Bowfishing Vid: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4Kkd5aQrJlrerMsi=6Os2toBnseaoejXO

[@bradhansen4312]

I like the fact that you left the tunnel and track full length, most guys want to shorten them. Cool build! Would you want to go with a bigger engine, now that you've been running the 212, or does it do the job? I also love the fact you haul it on the Toyota!!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@bradhansen4312 Thank you! I like the 212. It's got plenty of power, and I could just put a smaller sprocket on if I ever wanted it to go faster. I only weigh 135 pounds as well, so having the lighter set up is nice when it comes to handling it. I also tried making it light so my Corolla could haul it around😂. It totaled in the fall tho, so now I have a truck that hauls. It does everything that I need it to, so I'm happy with the 212!

[@liedebunker1253]

When you ride a snowmobile, your body weight is on the track. That gives the track a firmer grab on the snow. But here only the weight of the engine is on the track, and the grab of the track on the snow is not as much as when your body weight is on it.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@liedebunker1253 Ya, my ice fishing auger and a crate full of gear is on the tunnel now to add weight and carry my crap. I can easily add weight to it when needed.

[@lukasjlanthier]

How many hours did you work on it?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@lukasjlanthier I'm not sure about total hours, but for my first build it took me 4 weekends to complete.

[@bigallen18]

Why would you remove the suspension?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@bigallen18 You lock it up to make it easier to turn. When you're turning all of your energy goes towards turning instead of fighting the suspension. You can leave the front suspension in, but the back end should be locked up. It also drops your center of gravity. Track sleds can be a little tippy and top heavy so the lower everything is the easier it is to maneuver. Hope that made sense, let me know if you have any other questions.

[@bigallen18]

@@shandonbradfordoutdoors no that was a great answer thank you so much, I hope to make one for next winter to help on my farm to get into places my tractor can't.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@bigallen18 That would be an awesome use of it! I want to use mine to drag all my duck hunting gear onto farm fields. We'll see if I ever get to that this year. Definitely a handy machine tho for ice fishing

[@brownietheking3397]

That's pretty cool man I got a indy 500 that's gone to shit an my dad wants to do this to it so now I might

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@brownietheking3397 Ya you totally should! Give it a new life as a reliable track sled😎

[@seanmiller6967]

Awesome job do you think it would be a big deal to leave the suspension on?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@seanmiller6967 Thank you! You could leave the front suspension in, but taking the rear suspension out may make it harder to steer.

[@joshanderson1019]

Looks good, to me it sounds like the engine has more power to give, putting a smaller driven sprocket should get you more top speed, fuel efficiency (not that it matters) and your moneys worth out of the torque converter

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@joshanderson1019 Ya I do want to get a smaller sprocket. It's got plenty of torque, it loses traction well before losing torque so I definitely have some to trade out for speed. Thanks for watching!

[@oakfeline2577]

a foot sled from a stand behind zero turn would work perfect

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@oakfeline2577 ya that'd be perfect for dry ground, or little snow!

[@totallossmac5079]

Did you sell that old 440 engine?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@totallossmac5079 I did yes. Did just to get rid of it quick

[@andrewlumsden4071]

I wish there was more detail in what you were doing instead of it just flipping to being done. How do I actually remove the tunnel and everything?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@andrewlumsden4071 I plan to make another build video at some point and can make it even more thorough. Are you talking about removing the track and skid from the tunnel? If so there are 4 bolts. 2 up front and 2 farther back on the tunnel that hold it all together. You just need to remove those bolts.

[@ryanm2637]

Very nice build . With taking your suspension out and locking it in place with square tubing and essentially dropping the height of the track and making it longer, how did you get it to fit back into the track and did you use the same mounting holes that it was originally attached to the tunnel? Thanks in advance,

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@ryanm2637 Thank you! It's a super low track sled which I like, and turned out well. You have to put the front end in first, then bolt the rear last. My sled had 2 different mounting holes in it when I got it. Idk if that's factory or if someone before me drilled it out, but I had to use the 2nd hole in order to get it to fit. The 2nd hole was just 2-3 inches directly above the original bolt hole. I had to use ratchet straps to squeeze everything in before it fit, which was a big pain! Having someone there to help would be a big help. Let me know if that's helpful, if not I could email you pictures too or something.

[@ryanm2637]

@@shandonbradfordoutdoors Awesome. Thanks for the reply. Am currently in the process of building mine. I noticed a few brackets on my suspension were broken so fixing that up now and on to the next issue, How long did it take you to complete your build? And any changes you would of made differently. I'm in WI and hoping for a lot of ice this year.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@ryanm2637 It took me 4 weekends or just a month (this was my first build). I'm sure with each build it gets really fast. I would be interested in trying somebody's track sled that still had the front suspension. I've heard to take everything out, and I've heard to leave the front suspension in. This winter I'll be able to compare that with a buddy's. Idk if I'd change this or not, but the angle iron frame doesn't leave much of a lip to hold a tote/ milk crate in place. I think the angle iron looks really slick and is super sturdy, but having that raised perimeter that tubing creates would be nice too. Other than that nothing to change, just things I can always add. It's got a paint job now, and adding a light bar would be nice.

[@ryanm2637]

@@shandonbradfordoutdoors That's great, you should post some pictures of it painted up. This is my first build also so I'm sure they'll be some hiccups along the way. Well I appreciate all of your input and responses. How much do you think it weighs, and is your carrier for your car holding up good? As soon as i get mine done I'll try and post some pictures. Don't know if i'll get it painted this year, but I definitely want to have it on the ice this year. And like you, I can add things later on. I'll be using a 13HP honda motor that i had on an old pressure washer and picked up an old snow machine for $100.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@ryanm2637 Heck ya that's awesome! Cheap build then, which is nice! I think it weighs just barely over 200 lbs, so super light. Cargo carrier is holding up great. I just barely got a truck so I'll be hauling it on a bigger carrier this year.

[@rightanglefishing]

very impressive!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Thanks Matt! I'm excited to get it out on the ice

[@monotheis6889]

Where's your safety sandals like those dudes from the middle east? 😂 I put a sled behind my snowblower so i could stand in it on the big runs. Most fun I've had at 4mph! 👍

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Haha😂 Very nice, if it gets you and your great around then why not

[@KyleO2721]

Hell yea dude!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

It's gonna be awesome!

[@illtryanything1]

sold. I'm building one

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@illtryanything1 They are great machines!

[@TheAwesomeadam25]

Whats the length?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

It's a 121" track. I can measure the actual length of the track sled tho if that's what you're wondering?

[@seventhson9441]

Bad design, Where's the 4 Hot Chocolate,... Holders. Seriously,.. "" Most Excellent "" work. The best !!!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@seventhson9441 Haha, I agree! Some cup holders and rod holders would be awesome on it, and will be added soon! Thanks for watching🎣

[@mrglasecki]

Piston driven dog sled 😎

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@mrglasecki Haha yup! It looks pretty cool when you have a long train of sleds behind you

[@davidledford3522]

I would've got that snowmobile engine running and used it on the track sled

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@davidledford3522 I could've tried but throwing a predator motor on is pretty cheap and easy

[@AngrySpaghetti1967]

put the original motor on. why would you put a rototiller motor on.?

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

The original motor is way too heavy, and would make the track sled too top heavy and tipsy. Also want something new and reliable where I don't have to worry about it.

[@AngrySpaghetti1967]

@@shandonbradfordoutdoors I never thought about that. After I watched this great video, I went to see what other people were doing, and not one used the old motor. Good job, man. I enjoyed this. I guess it would depend if you wanted speed or strickly for getting from point A to B. 2 thumbs up man.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@AngrySpaghetti1967 Thank you! I may gear it differently in the future to add a bit more speed. It's got plenty of torque and will lose traction before power, so adding a bit more speed wouldn't hurt anything. Fun build! It's been amazing for icefishing this season already.

[@AngrySpaghetti1967]

@@shandonbradfordoutdoors I wish I had the tools and know how to do half of what you have done, I have great ice fishing here in Alberta Canada. thanks again!!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@AngrySpaghetti1967 Does Canada have a harbor freight? The saws, grinders, and welders there are so cheap! Like $25 for a grinder. Super affordable if you get everything there.

[@norcoredneck]

Phil the Schill.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

🎣

[@moejoe277]

Flip the skis around ... Rear "wheel" stearing

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@moejoe277 I'm confused, what skis? The skis from the snowmobile?

[@boosted_2j]

I feel like u take the governor off and put billet parts on that. U can have a nasty machine thwre.

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@boosted_2j Ya it would rip around pretty good then😂

[@rheslip20]

Nice! I made one a couple of years ago that's very similar. I placed my engine further forward and the bars further back so I have a large section of the tunnel to carry stuff on and that worked out very well. I also placed my engine in the center of the tunnel - you have probably already found out that putting the motor to one side makes it want to tip over on that side. My gearing is a bit taller so I get 17mph on packed snow and it still has tons of pulling power with the 212cc engine. Great job and kudos for documenting the whole build - these machines are the cat's ass for ice fishing! my build: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iaOrd6uAoc1litE

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@rheslip20 I'll have to watch your build! I was going to place my tool box on the other side of the motor to balance it out, but the motor and chain case are actually perfectly balanced in my build. To keep the balance I just put my tool box in the center. Doesn't lean at all which surprised me. It's been super awesome to have, and have several videos taking it out already. It's definitely a game changer!

[@rheslip20]

@@shandonbradfordoutdoors Great that it balanced for you - the chain case is a fair bit of counterweight. We probably have the same chain case which is 1.75:1 as I recall. I have a 28 tooth on the jackshaft - getting 17mph on packed trail by myself and it still has enough power to pull two sleds with two guys and gear. Two years ago I added lights and bar heaters powered by the same Milwaukee batteries I'm using for my auger kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3rJd2Z6lt2BmKc . Didn't use the sled last two winters due to lack of ice . Hopefully 2025 is a more normal winter up here near Ottawa. Have fun with your sled and tight lines Bro!

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@rheslip20 This year should be good! Ice fishing season here in Utah is always 6 months long with the high elevation mountains! A lot of fishing options here. Our low elevation lakes are only frozen for a couple months usually, but still a good amount of time.

[@darinblomquist422]

Nide

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@darinblomquist422 Thanks!

[@GoofieNewfie69]

How, not to remove a skid frame and springs, lucky he still has fingers. Remove 5 pound of springs (useful suspension) replace it with 4 pounds of square tube , plus all the work to save a pound of weight Left the cover for the hydraulic brake off, hehehe Motor6hp) is not powerful enough , if it can't go up that hill it's not going to pull more than one little guy . Better of fixing the motor on the original skidoo instead of cutting it all up

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@GoofieNewfie69 Ya removing the bearings to remove the springs definitely could have been done. Suspension isn't useful in a track sled though. It makes it hard to turn because you're fighting against the suspension. I also needed to drop the tunnel down as far as possible to make it less top heavy and thus less tipsy. People haul 1,000 pounds with these and a 6.5hp all the time. Some even haul their shanty with them. It's got plenty of torque to do it, just depends on how you gear it. A gear ratio around 7 will definitely do the trick tho. So much more reliable than the old snowmobile. I can use it on dry ground for hauling deer/elk, and can use it for duck hunting, or yard work. I can take it on 3 inches of ice. Simple, cheap, and easy to repair. A lot of pro's over an old snowmobile.

[@GoofieNewfie69]

@@shandonbradfordoutdoors Well , I've only done three conversions and a I own a SnoDog and a Bolens Hus Ski 200 and my brother has a Diablo Rouge. They both have suspension. The Yamaha bravo using the Bravo motor is the best with light springs works much better than the Bolens. "People haul 1,000 pounds with these and a 6.5hp all the time." thats really cute. They don't haul, they crawl. Your 6 hp could barely haul you up the hill. And i looked around at these youtube sleds, they are only good enough for kids on the flat. The ones that are fast or hauling heavy gear at least 10 or 12 hp rebaged to look like smaller motors. My GSXR 650 has a 1100 motor in it , bike still looks like a 650 But since you have many more years experience than i in fabricating and using snow machines, you know better than I. As for reliability, those old 500's go for tens of thousands of miles . they are not as good as the Yamahas or rotax, but are reasonably tough. Only problem with conversions is you have to use heavier weights in the primary

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@GoofieNewfie69 😂😂😂 Literally nothing I said was false. If you're not sitting on a track sled, then you're fighting against it to turn. The bigger the motor, the more top heavy it is. The higher the track sled, the more tipsy it is. They'll haul a lot of weight in snow and up hills. I can use it on dry ground so it's so much more versatile than an old snowmobile for what I'm using it for. Your experience is high, but I just had to repeat myself 👀 If you want to fix up an old snowmobile and use that then go right on ahead. There are definitely a couple pros of doing that.

[@GoofieNewfie69]

@@shandonbradfordoutdoors Is that why a 6 hp lawn mower motor ca barley pull 350 pounds up a little hill

[@derekguenette6642]

He could’ve easily cut that thing out in the front without taking it all apart work smarter not harder

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@derekguenette6642 Well I have to part it out and sell the separate parts somehow😂

[@derekguenette6642]

I don’t understand why you would go out and spend all that money on a new motor when you have a perfectly good snowmobile engine that is meant to be out in snow

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

New motor was only $150 bucks. Original motor is too big and heavy to use for a track sled, it'd make it too top heavy and tipsy. For what I'm using it for it's way better than a snowmobile. I can take it on dry ground to haul deer and elk out, to haul my decoys for waterfowl hunting, etc. For ice fishing I can take it on 3 inches of ice no problem. It also just fits right on my cargo carrier on the back of my car or truck, no need for a trailer. It turns, and carves amazing in the snow! Super easy and reliable machine. If anything breaks it's easy and cheap to fix. Lot more versatile than a snowmobile.

[@derekguenette6642]

LOL I love how he says he’s going to cut with a grinding wheel you don’t cut with a grinding wheel you grind use a cutting disc or wheel to cut cut

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

Oops my bad, said the wrong thing.

[@derekguenette6642]

The thing is ridiculous you can’t even turn it unless you get off if you ask me you went backwards from the snowmobile seems kind a like a useless machine you can only go forward with it you can’t turn

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

New motor was only $150 bucks. Original motor is too big and heavy to use for a track sled, it'd make it too top heavy and tipsy. For what I'm using it for it's way better than a snowmobile. I can take it on dry ground to haul deer and elk out, to haul my decoys for waterfowl hunting, etc. For ice fishing I can take it on 3 inches of ice no problem. It also just fits right on my cargo carrier on the back of my car or truck, no need for a trailer. It turns, and carves amazing in the snow! Super easy and reliable machine. If anything breaks it's easy and cheap to fix. Lot more versatile than a snowmobile.

[@rottweiler9535]

DOGGLESS DOG SLED, COOL

[@shandonbradfordoutdoors]

@@rottweiler9535 Ya! It's been an awesome machine!