A little over 5 years ago, the three of us (Sean, Eric and Brian) decided to take a chance that we could sell a handful of Snowdogs in Manitoba. When we started - it was kind of like the little engine that could - we think we can, we think we can. You can actually read our origin story here.
Little did we know how popular these machines would be. You could almost say we started a revolution! As Snowdogs became more popular, people began thinking differently about how they access the great outdoors. We’ve had some amazing, eye-opening conversations with people about why Snowdogs are a great choice for so many people, and for so many reasons.
Over the last 5 years, we’ve learned so much! Fatbike and cross-country ski trail grooming is a huge part of our business. Ice fishing is another huge part of the Manitoba market, but there are also applications for Search & Rescue, hunting, and even farming and yard work. These are truly multi-functional machines.
Our first sale in February of 2018 was to a retired fellow (Joe J.) who planned to use it for ice fishing! He sent us this photo of what appears to be a master walleye! Well done! Within days of activating the online store, we’d already met our sales goal, which admittedly was a small number (we hoped to sell at least ONE). This was a promising start!
Our next job was to get the word out! We had already begun working on some social media posts, but we wanted to showcase how these machines would work in the wild. In 2018 we attended the first ever Winnipeg Ice Fishing Show, hosted by Eric Labaupa and his Kickerfish organization! It was a great event, and we were glad to participate. The best part was getting to know others in the ice fishing community, and that’s exactly what we did!
Most notably that year, we met up with the folks that organize the annual Lac du Bonnet ice fishing derby. They invited us out to showcase the capabilities of the Snowdog! It was a blast. We hooked up seven (7) sleds behind a Snowdog, and hauled kids around the derby area all morning. It was so much fun!
In 2019, we made a great connection with the Manitoba Wildlife Federation (if you’re not a member already, this is a great organization). We were honored to be invited to their annual Becoming an Outdoors Woman event, where we taught a short program on Small Engine Repair! We learned a lot, too!
Speaking of learning - we are proud to have become the #1 source for Snowdog content, answers, tips and tricks. If you don’t follow our blog today, make sure to check out our articles. We have more than anyone else!
Some of the best things about the past 5 years were the amazing opportunities we had to get outside to fish in new, exciting places. We explored new lakes in NW Ontario, Lake Winnipeg, and the Red River! We knew that we couldn’t just say that Snowdogs were great for ice fishing, we had to see for ourselves! We even managed to reach a few very cool milestones - Master Anglers Walleye on Lake Winnipeg!
We also made some investments to help achieve our “get outside” goals. We purchased an enclosed trailer, so we could carry (and deliver) multiple Snowdogs and sleds, a drone to make some amazing Snowdog videos, and we also purchased a flip-over shack to make our on-ice experience even better. Stay tuned to our blog for a review of the Otter Resort flip-over shelter!
In 2022, we also made our first-ever international all-business trip to St. Paul, MN, where we attended the St. Paul Ice Fishing Show (the largest ice fishing show in North America). We saw some amazing innovations in fishing technology, took advantage of some great deals on Striker Suits, and even met the Owner and marketing team for Snowdog! It was a great weekend of meeting people and making new connections.
We’ve even picked up some new products! We’ve added a line of LiPo (Lithium Ion) batteries from a fellow Canadian company Lynac! They have an extensive range of battery options, as well as solar panel kits for off-grid living, boats, portable power boxes, or anything that takes a battery (yes, even Snowdogs!). We also carry Dayco belts, an industry-leading manufacturer of drive belts for Snowdogs, Snowmobiles, ATV’s and much more. There is more of this product expansion to come with exciting partnerships!
We appreciate you being here, and following along with us on this exciting journey! Your support means the world. We look forward to supporting you as you explore corners of your local wilderness and with you warm connections with those you spend time with in the outdoors.
Cheers,
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Tis the season! Recreation Revolution is bringing the holiday cheer with our list of the 12 Snowdog Accessories for Christmas! Whether you’re looking for something for that special someone, or just spoiling yourself - here are 12 items we think are must-haves this season!
When the engine is running, the primary pulley receives power from the engine and transmits it to the belt. The belt then transfers the power to the secondary pulley, which drives the wheels. By varying the effective diameter of the pulleys, the transmission can change the gear ratio to achieve the desired speed.
The CVT belt is designed to handle a wide range of power levels and speeds without slipping or breaking. However, over time, the belt can wear out and need to be replaced. It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule to ensure that the belt is in good condition and functioning properly.
What are the advantages of a CVT Transmission?
A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) offers several advantages over traditional transmissions:
Smooth acceleration: A CVT allows for smoother acceleration as there are no gear shifts. The engine can operate at its most efficient RPM for a given speed, resulting in a smoother ride.
Improved fuel efficiency: Because the engine can operate at its most efficient RPM, a CVT can provide better fuel economy than a traditional automatic transmission.
Better performance: A CVT can provide faster and smoother acceleration than a traditional transmission because there are no gear changes, allowing the engine to maintain peak power output.
Simplified design: A CVT has a simpler design than a traditional automatic or manual transmission, which can result in fewer mechanical components and less maintenance.
Lower cost: Due to their simpler design, CVTs can be less expensive to produce than traditional transmissions.
Overall, a CVT can offer improved performance, better fuel efficiency, and a smoother driving experience. However, some drivers may find the lack of gear changes to be less engaging than a traditional manual or automatic transmission.
What is a torque converter?
A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) does not have a traditional clutch like a manual transmission, but it does have a type of clutch known as a torque converter. The torque converter allows the engine to transfer power to the transmission without stalling the engine when the vehicle is at a stop.
In a CVT, the torque converter is responsible for transmitting the engine's power to the transmission. The torque converter consists of two primary components, the impeller and the turbine, which are separated by a fluid-filled housing. The impeller is driven by the engine and pumps fluid into the turbine, causing it to spin and transfer power to the transmission.
The torque converter in a CVT can vary its ratio depending on the speed of the vehicle, which allows for smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. The CVT clutch, in this case, is essentially the torque converter, which allows for the transmission of power from the engine to the wheels without the need for a traditional clutch pedal.
In some CVT designs, there may also be additional clutches or bands that engage and disengage to change the gear ratio of the transmission. These clutches work in conjunction with the torque converter to provide smooth and efficient power transfer.
]]>Interesting profile of a someone using it in Canada. Lots of pics of cool sleds, modifications and attachments for Snowdogs.
]]>One of our challenges as a Snowdog dealer these last few years has been finding parts. It's been a particular challenge finding a reliable source for the belts!
We reached out to Dayco - industry leaders in drive belts, and that's how we met Dave! We asked Dave for help finding the best belts for our machines, and boy, did he come through! We recently met up at the RecRev testing grounds (Sean's house) to see how these belts would compare to the stock Snowdog belts. We were impressed by the results.
We took the opportunity to talk with Dave about the technical aspects of drive belts, and why they're important. We also talked a lot about fishing, but that's a post for another day.
Here's what we learned:
If you've ever put a new belt on a Snowdog, or if your Snowdog is brand new, you might notice a buildup of black powder or oily residue inside the hood, where it covers the belt. This is normal, but it's not great. That residue is from the particles of rubber and fabric that were on the belt after it was manufactured. Those particles warm up as the belt moves through the clutch and pulley, melt, and fly off the belt. In some cases, that residue could also accumulate on the clutch plates, where they could create bumps that wear on the belt over time.
You can avoid this problem by giving your belts a quick wash, either in the sink with some warm water and wipe down with a cloth, or even in the dishwasher (not with the dinner dishes though). Dave suggests that the quick rinse cycle in the dishwasher is all it takes, and will greatly reduce the residue leftover from a new belt.
Belt length and width are critical in CVT vehicles like ATVs, Snowmobiles, Snowdogs and other tracksleds. If the belt is too long, it requires a higher-than-normal RPM to engage, and you lose top-end speed. When stopped, the belt should be just barely touching the primary clutch shaft, but should also be flush with the outside edge of the secondary (driven) pulley, with minimal slack in between.
As for width, the belt should be wide enough to sit mostly flush with the driven pulley. A belt that's too narrow won't engage properly, if at all.
You can maximize the life of your drive belts by letting them "heat cycle" at least once after installation. After you put the new belt on, go for a 10-20 minute drive, making sure to vary your speed as much as possible. After your ride, park your Snowdog and let the belt cool down completely. That's it!
We noticed a HUGE difference from the stock Snowdog belt. We noticed better start and acceleration, and even more consistent power and top speed. A good belt is important, but a better-fitting belt is a game-changer.
In addition we immediately noticed less drift in the belt up and down on the CVT clutch. According to Dave (and Dayco) - less drift = less wear!
Dave was kind enough to match up the belts that our customers would need the most. These are a tad more snug than the standard stock belts. While we have access to all the belts that Dayco offers (including ATV and Snowmobile belts), here are the quick links for the various Snowdig models:
Belt for Snowdog with 7 & 10 HP Engines (Older Standard or Compact versions)
Belt for Snowdog with Briggs & Stratton 13 HP Engines, including 13HP Compact, Standard, Utility and Sport Models. This belt will also fit on the Tinger Dog! It’s important to note that on the Sport model, we also compared the Dayco HP3028 belt, which many Snowdog users have said is the closest in terms of size to the stock belt. That may be true, but the HP2029 is still a better fit on the Snowdog.
Belt for Long Track and Twin Track Snowdog
Give these belts a try on your machine before the winter season is up. We have lots in stock!
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Why does my Snowdog take off as soon as I start it?
Last year we wrote an article about Runaway Snowdogs… and how to prevent those unexpected take-offs of your machine in cold weather.
For those that haven’t experienced it, or don’t know what we’re talking about - there are times that if the proper safety precautions and pre-ride inspections haven’t been followed - the engine will rev up to full throttle immediately on start up, which causes the belt to engage almost immediately. This can cause the Snowdog to “take off” - into whatever may be in its path. And if there’s nothing in its path - then the open lake.
Since publishing that article, we learned that in addition to all of the potential causes we listed in the original article, one of the major causes of this problem is actually the governor linkage freezing up. If the governor is frozen in the wrong position, then consider the machined revved and ready to go like a greyhound at the sound of the starting gun. Thankfully, there are some easy solutions to this problem, and you don’t need to be a mechanic to implement them.
As we mentioned in our Runaway Snowdogs article - the first step is to make sure you have the kill switch tether securely attached to your arm. This way if the machine does decide to take off, it will only get a few feet before the kill switch is engaged.
We can’t stress this enough. It takes less than a minute to do this, and it’ll save you a lot of headaches. Before every ride, and especially if you’ve been out on a ride and your Snowdog has been sitting for more than a few minutes, check the throttle, choke and brake cables and make sure they can move freely. Then, make sure that the governor lever moves freely. Note that each different engine (10hp, 13hp, 15hp) may have a different lever/actuator arm. This little tab-like lever has a very short range of motion, so just make sure it moves from side to side a little bit.
And if you can reach it, try to move the actuator arm that connects that lever to the carb also. You can see it between the air cleaner box and the fuel tank on the other side. You may need a screwdriver or needle-nosed pliers to reach it and give it a wiggle.
You might be wondering what the difference between the 2023 Snowdog Sport and previous years. The new 2023 Snowdogs are starting to make their way to dealers across Canada! We thought you might like to see what’s new, and what we think these changes will mean for you!
The 2021-2022 season was challenging, with very few machines available, and a serious shortage of parts, but 2023 is shaping up to be better! With brand new machines available, assembly plants operating in the US and in Canada, we’re excited about this season.
Our new machines arrived, and we’re excited to say that there were some really nice improvements in fit and function. Here are a few of the updates we noticed right out of the crate!
Eric is shown in this photo sharing his sheer excitement at the arrival of our new Snowdogs!
The engine is no longer mounted on a large plate along with the reverse gearbox. Instead, it’s attached to a much more accessible plate, so the engine can be removed independently of the reverse gearbox. We like this change because it makes it much simpler to access the engine, and even easier to access the reverse gearbox if you ever had to remove it. This change, however, means the oil drain plugs are not very accessible. For those of us who use a vacuum pump to remove the oil via the filler tube, that’s not a problem. If you don’t already use the vacuum pump method to change your oil, it’s worth a look! We have an article about how that’s done, and we’ve found it to be a relatively quick and clean way to change the oil.
Our team of scientists hasn’t completed their analysis yet, but so far we love the new powder coated stee decking. Some of the tubular frame bars have been modified to improve styling, especially in the cargo area, and the 2022-2023 model still has the “outside the frame” support bars for the handlebars, making it easier to apply downward pressure on the rear of the machine for improved turning and climbing.
We’ve broken a couple of rear fenders on earlier versions of the Sport models in heavy snow, so we’re hoping this change will fix that problem. The rear fender is made of the same durable plastic used for the sides of the machine, but in black. It’s thicker, and while it’s not flexible, it should do a great job of deflecting snow while driving in powder.
We’d heard rumors of a simpler method of adjusting the chain tension, but until now, they were just rumors. Until now, you had to loosen 6 bolts on your snowdog deck and slide the engine mounting plate backwards in order to adjust the tension on your chain. It was a time-consuming (and not at all satisfying) process. Now, achieving ideal chain tension is a breeze!
The handlebar adjustment is different, with an adjustment bracket on the support bar! This means when you adjust the height of the handlebars, it doesn’t affect the way the handlebars fold up for storage!
There’s an optional Carburetor Cover to keep your Snowdog’s air intake and carburetor covered, and toasty warm on those cold, blustery days. Think “carb toque”. It only comes in black, and can be installed in seconds. It fits over the intake and wraps around the bottom of the carburetor bowl. For those -40C days, we’re thinking this is going to be great.
The optional cargo box is a roto-molded plastic case designed to fit perfectly in the cargo area of your Sport or Utility Snowdog. It looks amazing, and can be secured into the cargo area with rubber tie-downs. It even has a shoulder strap so you can take it with you! The rubber T-handle latch keeps it securely closed, and there’s a gasket inside the lid for a tight seal. We have not tested the capacity of the cargo box yet, but we expect great things. Fair warning: quantities are very limited.
We’re optimistic that all of these improvements and changes will all be great, and will only help to improve the Snowdog experience. And if you find any other changes that we didn’t mention here, we’d love to hear from you. Spoiler Alert: We intentionally left out at least two changes. They’re great. You’ll love them.
We hope to post some video updates so you can see how much fun these machines are to ride, whether you’re out for a day of fishing, breaking new trails or just exploring the great outdoors. Thanks for visiting!
]]>Introduce your little adventurers to the great outdoors in this fun and educational book.
Explore 56 coloured pages about our beautiful world and all the wonderful ways we can enjoy it. We bet you'll feel a little inspired yourself too.
A book from A to Z suitable for kids ages zero to ninety-nine.
Here is a sample of what you can expect!
A great addition to any outdoors minded family - encourage your family and friends to Get Outside! We have partnered with author Jessica Gold to bring this wonderful walk through from A-Z that celebrates the best the outdoors has to offer. Hiking, camping, winter sports - it's got it all!
Check it out here in our store: https://www.recreationrevolution.ca/products/get-outside-an-adventure-kids-book
]]>Recently, we had a customer bring us his machine because of a mysterious loss of connection between the battery and everything else. Nothing electrical was working: electric start, lights, or heated grips. Very frustrating!
We'd had strange issues like this before, so we went through all the typical troubleshooting steps we'd done before, but with no luck.
In this article, we'll go through some of the troubleshooting steps we'd take in a situation like this, and we'll show you what the solution was for this customer.
When electrical problems appear, there are some pretty basic steps to follow that will generally identify the problem.
In the case of this particular customer, it was a simple ground connection... which (we'll admit it, we're still learning) was an easy fix, in the end.
The ground connection was installed on the outside of the painted shroud assembly, so it wasn't making a good connection. Once we installed it under the shroud, in direct contact with the engine body, our problem was solved!
Electrical problems can be frustrating, especially out in the field. Maybe this is something you already know, but for those of us who are new(er) to engine maintenance and repair, we hope these tips give you just a little more confidence to try to troubleshoot your Snowdog if something's not working quite right.
]]>There are actually TWO serial numbers on your Snowdog: one is for the Snowdog as an assembly, the other is for the engine.
Most Snowdogs have a serial number sticker or stamp on the engine mounting plate near the front of the machine. Sometimes it's on a sticker. but on older machines, it may also be stamped into the base plate.
We recommend asking your dealer! Typically, your dealer would register your purchase with Snowdog in order to activate your warranty, so they would have your serial numbers on file.
Thanks for visiting!
~The RecRev Team
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In this example, we're simply replacing the rubber of the bogey wheels, not the bearing. In many cases, it's wise to replace the bearing at the same time, but since the bearings were in good shape and we were only changing two wheels, we left the bearings alone.
Let's begin!
While it's entirely possible to do this job without taking the whole trolley assembly out, we took it out just because it makes the wheel replacement much easier. The first thing you'll need to do is to take the pressure off the trolley. You can do this by propping up one end of the snowdog, or by lifting it off the tracks. We're fortunate to have a forklift in our shop, so we used that. However you choose to lift your snowdog off the ground or prop it up, do it safely!
Next, we used a 14mm wrench to remove the two bolts holding the trolley in place. You could use an impact drill to do this if you have one, but as you can see, we did just fine without it.
Once the two mounting bolts are removed, the trolley can be removed from underneath the Snowdog.
Using two 10mm wrenches (one on the bolt end, one on the nut), remove all six of the bolts holding the hub in place. The bogey wheel is essentially a rubber donut held in place by the hub. With the outside hub removed (along with the damaged rubber) you can see the bearing here. It looks a little grungy, but it actually spins very nicely, which is why we didn't replace them.
If we were going to replace the bearings, we'd need to remove the c-clip holding it in place, and then a bearing puller to remove the bearing assembly. It's a tight fit, and a bearing puller tool is handy for this job.
There are some little plastic spacers in the kit that came with the bogey wheels, and we used those even though there were little black spacers in the wheel already. Just pop out the black spacers, and replace them with the new ones.
It's possible that the new spacers are slightly longer than the black ones, and are designed to prevent over-tightening of the hub on the bearing. Honestly, we're not sure that's true, but we used them anyway.
Next, place the rubber wheel on the hub (it fits snugly around the bearing housing), and re-attach the outside hub with the bolts and lock washers. Make sure to install the little rubber plug that comes with the kit, which will help to prevent water and debris from getting into the hub.
Slip the trolley back into position and reinstall the 14mm bolts. Remember how tight it was when you took it off? It should be that tight again. Careful not to strip the threads or over-tighten with your impact drill!
On a related note: if you have a history of over-tightening fasteners, you may be interested in our Complete Fastener Kit, which contains a wide range of replacements!
Thanks for reading! If you have any tips, tricks or hacks that would make this job easier than we've explained it, or if you'd like to see other how-to manuals, we'd love to hear from you! Use our contact form to reach us!
]]>https://camba.ca/blog/2022/02/old-snowdog-new-tricks?fbclid=IwAR3kXmNACk8CeNIM-08oCd9W01UDaRPhrjkESnRubPwxbPN0FrluL-SFtVw
CAMBA uses their Snowdogs and a single track groomer and volunteer time to keep their Fatbike trails primed in the winter months.
Other useful links in the article include sources for older Snowdog clutch parts including the Comet 40 and Comet 44 Magnum:
Manuals for these can be found here:
]]>The USB power option is great because you can charge your phones, flashlights, cameras, GPS or anything else!
The solar input is a great option as it can fold up into a smaller footprint and charge your battery on the go. Set it up on the boat, the canoe, outside your camping trailer/tent, ice fishing shack or even rest it on the Snowdog!
Depending on your application you may want to opt for waterproof model that keeps the elements out.
Great for the adventure lifestyle. Power - wherever you need it!
We recently expanded our product line to include the Dakota Lithium Power Box 10 . It's a great intro model from a proven brand that is light weight and give you lots of power!
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Throttle "nut" - On initial setup, make sure to back this out a few turns to ensure the throttle isn't full locked up (it is set like this for shipping). Don't worry about it falling off since it's a lock nut. | |
Throttle cable - Before starting, verify the cable can move freely and is not bound, make sure you have full pull and return on the throttle lever itself (on the handle bars) | |
Carb - This one is hard to predict, but occasionally the throttle gate can freeze open. In this case, ensuring you have a safe start area will provide the greatest success. | |
Fuel lines - Depending on where you're filling, you may be getting excess water in the fuel tank. Use a fuel line antifreeze to help prevent moisture in your fuel from freezing in the lines or in the carb | |
Air filter - If you've dealt with all of the other things, check here next. Remove the air filter cover and check the filter. Is it clogged? Does it look jammed up with ice and debris? Carefully remove the foam sleeve and give it a shake to remove any large chunks of ice or dirt, replace it and try starting again. Some folks remove this filter completely, but we like our Snowdogs... filtered. |
Use a penetrating oil and silicone lube on the cables to prevent any freezing or seizing. | |
Check the function of the kill switch, use a penetrating oil and silicone lube here as well to ensure the switch can operate easily. | |
Ensure your parking brake is tightened up to help prevent any unexpected takeoffs. |
The biggest safety tip - assume that the machine is going to take off! 99% of the time it won't, but it's always better to be prepared!
Riding a Snowdog should be safe and fun! With a few basic precautions, that's exactly what you can expect! Stay safe out there!
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«We pride ourselves on being Snowdog owners FIRST, and a dealer second» — these are the words of Sean, resident of Canadian city Winnipeg, Manitoba. He, together with his friends, purchased his first Snowdog 4 yeas ago. Now, he is one of the most successful dealers selling Snowdog machines. Their project is called “Recreation Revolution”. These guys are extremely creative and active. We suggest you reading an interview with Sean to look at how they do their work.
You can read the full interview here: https://snowdog.com/about/news/people-loved-the-product/
]]>Snowdog recommends an initial oil change after 5 hours of use, and then every 20 hours after that. You can easily track the number of hours on your machine by installing an hour meter on your engine, but if you don't have one (or don't want one) then you could change the oil after your first few outings, and then at the end of each rising season (every April, for example).
This process applies to all 13HP Snowdog machines, including the Standard and Compact B13ME, as well as the Standard, Utility and Sport B13MER machines.
You'll need some basic tools and supplies for this job. You'll need a vacuum pump, some paper towels or shop rags, a short length of 4x4 wood or similar sized material to use as a lifting block, and of course, your new oil. Refer to your owners' manual for the correct oil for your machine, but we typically use 5W30, which provides the best performance for the range of temperatures we'll be experiencing. The process is also much easier with a VERY long funnel for pouring oil back into the engine.
Get your Snowdog ready by starting it up, and letting it run for at about 5 minutes. Warming up the engine also warms up the oil, making it flow more freely. Don't skip this step!
Set the Stage
Use the 4x4 block to lift the back half of the Snowdog so that the engine is tilted forward. This allows easier collection with the pump, but also prevents oil from spilling out during the extraction process.
Remove the dipstick cap from the engine, and insert the vacuum tube as far back as it can go. Begin pumping to extract all of the oil. Move the tube around so you can extract as much of the old oil as possible. When all of the oil has been removed, it's time to add the new oil!
If you have a magnetic oil drain plug, this is the time to remove it carefully and check the magnet tip for metal filings. Clean off the plug and replace it.
With the machine still propped up and in the forward-leaning position, use your long funnel to slowly pour about 950 ml of oil into the engine through the same dipstick/filler hole you used in the extraction process.
Note that the oil capacity on the Briggs XR2100 series engine is 37 oz (1.09L) according to the manual, but depending how much you extracted, you may need slightly less when refilling. If your engine isn't a Briggs & Stratton or if you have a different model than shown here, consult your manual for the exact specifications.
It's okay to check the level frequently. Make sure to check the oil level when the machine is sitting flat.
When you're satisfied that the oil level is correct, it's time to replace the filler cap/dipstick and start up the engine. This will circulate the new oil and complete your oil change process. This might be a good time to check the trails or take a quick tour of the frozen lake! Enjoy!
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As with any machine, there is a level of "regular maintenance" that has to be done in order to keep your Snowdog in top running condition. Oil changes, belt and chain inspections will go a long way, but for long-term reliability, it never hurts to do a thorough inspection, right down to the nuts and bolts.
On every Snowdog, the engine and gearbox mount to a plate, which is then bolted to the platform of the Snowdog. At least once a season, it's good practice to tighten the engine mount bolts, and the bolts on the gearbox. Then, check the six bolts that hold that mounting plate to the platform. These things will ensure that the engine remains properly aligned with the gearbox, and that the chain doesn't get too loose. If any of these fasteners are damaged or missing, get new ones immediately.
Those 14 (or so) bolts are arguably the most important to check on a regular basis, but did you know that your Snowdog has upwards of 100 different fasteners, including nuts, bolts, rivnuts, captive nut clips and more?
Most of them are commonly available at your local home improvement or hardware store, but for the price of the kit, you can make a wide range of repairs with minimal effort.
The Complete Fastener Kit (shown above) contains a range of commonly needed fasteners, bolts, nuts, washers and threaded inserts for your Snowdog, and a few extras of each one (note that there are actually 4 of the handlebar shoulder bolts).
Items include:
If you're doing a through inspection of your machine and come across a missing or damaged bolt, nut or insert, but don't know what size it is, you can also refer to the Snowdog Parts Manual (ask us if you need a free copy).
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2021 Snowdog Twin Track 13HP:
2021 Snowdog Sport 13HP
Prices range from $3900-$5500 USD not including sled or additional accessories.
]]>Out of the box vs. DIY
Overall Look:
Pull bar:
Removable hood:
Gas Access:
Hardcover hood:
Small battery compartment
6 LED light (so many lumens!):
Sealed/Solid bogeys:
Plastic tray with drainage:
Different hitch and towing hook for sled:
Sled Reinforcements:
Improved balance/weight distribution
Aggressive track geometry:
Choice of engines (Honda, B&S, Predator, Kohler)
Overall Summary:
Both machines are a great product to get you outside. Some may prefer the engine options, other may prefer the years in the market & supply chain behind Snowdog. Let us know if you have any questions. As Canada's largest Snowdog AND Tinger Dog dealer - we'd be happy to help you find what's right for you!
]]>There's plenty of feedback to be found online that says the OEM spark plugs that come with your Snowdog are.. well... not great. If you want to maximize fuel economy and power, a quick spark plug change is a great start.
There are several brands of Spark Plug to choose from, but if you're scouring the Facebook Groups to see what the favourites are, you'll see these come up most frequently:
CHAMPION RN9YC
NGK Model BRP6ES
NGK Model BKR6EIX
We don't sell these in our online store because they're very easy to find at most small engine repair stores like Canadian Tire, PartSource, or even Amazon. If you prefer to buy local, check out your neighbourhood small engine shop, like our friends at Ideal Small Engine right here in Winnipeg. Tell them we sent you!
The Snowdog chains have been improved over the last two years, which is encouraging. On the newest models, they've even moved to a continuous chain (no master link), and a heavier chain. All good things. Still, having a replacement chain is a great way to avoid downtime. We have two options:
The Snowdog OEM 62-link Chain Kit with Master Link, which is the go-to replacement chain.
The Aftermarket Chain and Master Link Kit is a standard #50 chain, which is heavier and slightly wider chain than the OEM version.
Anyone who rides long distances will tell you that a spare belt is an essential part of any rescue kit. Belts should be replaced when they are noticeably worn, or if they become cracked and dry. This will ensure smooth and powerful take-off, and consistent power throughout your ride.
We have two options for belts:
The OEM Belt is the one that came with your machine, straight from Mother Russia. Guaranteed to fit.
There's also an Aftermarket Belt that works just as well, and is generally easier to get in Canada! Cheaper, too.
We do our best to update this blog section as often as possible. Check back here often for updates! But if there's an issue that you need fixed right now, there are some great online resources that are completely free!
Want to see how someone else fixed their machine? Need to know how to change that belt or how to adjust the chain tension? The Snowdog Canada Group is all about Snowdogs, and Snowdog-related information. Whether it's how to fix it, modify it, or load it in your car, you'll find all kinds of useful information there.
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The Tinger Dog reportedly offers a choice in Engine Brand, has a hard cover and a plow attachment available.
We will be watching this closely as it makes its way to North America. More information can be found here via the Canadian Distributor for Tinger Dogs.
Update: we are now excited to offer Tinger Dog Canada DIY KITs!
]]>To lay the groundwork (you know, for science), these are the machines I tested: the Snowdog 10HP Compact model, and the 13HP Standard model with Reverse option. I picked these two because I had to see for myself If the Reverse option was worth it. Also, I wanted to see how the 13HP motor performed, and if there were any other differences. As far as the spectrum goes - the 10HP Compact is the smallest, lightest version of the Snowdog, and the 13HP Standard with Reverse is the heaviest and largest one.
I tested the machines in a pretty wide range of snow depths and densities. On the roadways around my place there was about 1” of snow, mostly heavy packed stuff. On the lake as at least 10” of snow, and in some places, there was slush underneath that (but still on top of 8-10” of ice). The snow on the lake was generally powdery and soft.
Temperatures ranged from -20 degrees Celsius to a balmy +5 Celsius, which changed the snow a lot, but only made it easier to travel in deeper snow, at higher speeds.
In all of my testing, I was pulling only the Snowdog Sled, with a seat, and me, so the machine was pulling at most 275 lbs. (I’m including the seat and sled in that number!).
10HP vs. 13HP engine
When we first started selling Snowdogs, I was sold on the 10HP model. I still think it’s a very capable engine, and there are merits to its lighter weight (for portability, you can’t beat it). That being said, if portability isn’t your biggest concern, then go for the 13HP model. All of the other components (clutch, gear box, brakes) are more “robust” as well, and the trade-off in weight will be forgotten the first time it pulls you up a steep hill or through a twisty trail.
Compact model vs. Standard model
We’ve been telling our customers that the Standard is better in deep snow because of the longer track (and therefore reduced ground pressure). We have proven this. The Standard I tested, even with the larger engine, sailed through deep snow (even some slush on the ice) without even slowing down. In heavy slush conditions, anything will bog down, but the Standard 13HP still performed very well. The Compact, though lighter, had some trouble in slushy snow, and just couldn’t maintain speed when I drove through some slushy spots.
The other most notable difference was the steering. The Compact is a breeze to steer in any conditions. In deeper snow, the Standard becomes nearly impossible to steer at top speed by simply “pushing” the handlebars out to the sides like you’d want to do. To steer the Standard most effectively in deep snow, you have to tilt the whole machine to the left or right like a jet-ski in order to carve into the snow. Once you get the hang of it, it’s not difficult, but it does take some practice. On trails that are used frequently, steering is not a problem for either model (though it’s still a bit easier on the Compact).
Reverse Option: Yes or No?
We have typically advised our customers NOT to pay extra for the reverse gear option because we didn’t believe it was as useful as our customers want it to be. At the time, the reverse gear had to be actuated manually by a lever in the front of the engine compartment, which seemed a little awkward.
This year was the first year that Snowdog offered the Reverse option with a switch on the handlebar, allowing you to drive the machine in reverse much like a Snowmobile. This changes everything! If you’re going to buy a Standard 13HP unit, the Reverse Gear option is actually pretty handy. I found myself in a situation on a marshy trail where I had to back out (or pull myself out). The reverse gear made it incredibly easy.
Reverse option, when available, is definitely a YES.
UPDATE: We can now install a reverse gear in Compact 13HP Snowdog machines.
THE VERDICT
It’s been a fun week of testing.
The question of Compact vs. Standard isn’t an easy one, but here’s how I’d boil it down:
Pick a COMPACT MODEL if:
Pick a STANDARD MODEL if:
Whatever Snowdog you decide on, you’ll love them. They’re super fun to drive even if you’re not into ice fishing. They’re great for touring the lake, exploring bush trails or just taking the kids out for a sleigh ride and enjoying the great outdoors.
]]>Whether you have a Snowdog sled, a Pelican, Equinox, Koenders or other brand, the runners are usually replaceable, and it's not hard to replace them yourself! If you have a buddy that can help you, a drill, and some patience, you can do this.
Runners are designed to be replaceable, and replacing them at the right time saves you from having to buy a whole new sled. After all, you don't buy a new car just because your tires are getting worn down, do you?
Our Snowdog sleds have runners that are made of HDPE (high density polyethylene). HDPE is usually quite resistant to impact, and works well in cold weather, but it does wear down over time. Snowdog does sell replacement runners, and they're not very expensive!
We have been using the same demo sleds since we started selling Snowdogs four years ago. To be honest, we weren't very careful about where we went. There may have been pavement involved. Nonetheless, these sleds held up very well. But as you can see, these runners are done. In fact, we noticed that we were grinding down the screws too. Yikes! That explains the sparks, I guess. We thought this might be a good opportunity to test some new runners on our sleds, so we could share our findings with you, and answer your questions.
The Snowdog replacement runners, as I mentioned, are made of HDPE, which are great. They lasted a good long time. We didn't have any real problems with them, and they did a great job of protecting our sleds. They didn't peel off or separate like some sled runners I've seen. Kudos to Snowdog for building a good quality sled! If you're happy with the performance of the Snowdog runners, we can get you new ones, that's easy enough, and they're reasonably priced.
You have other options though! If you want to want to upgrade your sled with even better runners, we recommend UHMW runners. They provide much more resistance to abrasion than the original runners, but are still flexible and easy to install. We wanted to see this for ourselves, so we installed the new UHMW runners on one of our demo sleds. Here's the new look:
What an improvement! It took us about 30 minutes, a few new screws (#8 x 3/4" Truss Head screws are included with our kits!) and it adds years to the life of the sled!
We liked it so much, we replaced the runners on one of our Pelican sleds too. Same easy installation process, same great results. If your sled runners are showing signs that they're nearing the end of their useful life, replace them quickly and easily.
Our sled runner kits come complete with 5 runner strips pre-cut and beveled on both ends, and 40 screws, along with some helpful installation instructions, which you are free to ignore completely.
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No. One of our favorite features of the Snowdog is the fact that you don't need any additional insurance to ride them. You can ride your machine the very same day you bring it home.
Generally, Snowdogs are not considered "off-road vehicles" and as such they are not subject to the same requirements as snowmobiles or all-terrain vehicles.
One of the users in the Snowdog Canada Facebook Group went to the trouble of checking with the Ontario government Ministry of Transportation to get an answer about this (thanks, Mauro!). Here's what they responded:
Based on our current assessment, we have determined that the Snow Dog does not meet the classification requirements of an off-road vehicle (ORV) or motorized snow vehicle (MSV) under the Highway Traffic Act (HTA), Off-Road Vehicle Act (ORVA) or Motorized Snow Vehicle Act (MSVA) regulations.ORVs and MSVs riders must meet registration requirements, and must obtain either a plate or permit to operate their vehicle on Ontario roads or lands (i.e., provincial highways, trails). Vehicles that do not meet the ministry’s requirements may only be used on private property (i.e. property must be owned by the vehicle operator or the vehicle owner must obtain permission from the property owner prior to operating their vehicle on the property owner’s property).The Snowdog may also be operated on crown land, unless the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests (MNRF) specifically prohibits public access to certain specific lands. Operators of the Snowdog must consult the MNRF to determine whether there are any restrictions in place which could prohibit operation of the vehicle on the land which the owner intends to operate the machine.
The short answer is "probably". Some insurance companies won't insure your Snowdog at all because they're not sure how to classify it. Some home insurance companies will cover your Snowdog as a "miscellaneous endorsement", and the rates would be based on rates used for a riding lawnmower with an engine of up to 30HP. You can get similar liability coverage too.
For the best answer to this question, we recommend you call your Home insurance company.
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Our new drop-ship option saves you time and money, and we're excited that we've been able to help more than a few Snowdogs find their forever homes in places like Saskatoon, Abbotsford, Calgary and even Grand Falls-Windsor, Newfoundland (it costs a bit more to get to Newfoundland, though).
Shipping Snowdogs and Snowdog accessories to far-off places involves a little more than putting it all in some cardboard boxes and packing peanuts, as you can imagine, and if we do happen to ship "factory direct", it means you have a little work to do at the unboxing party. We wanted to give you a quick heads up about what to expect so that there are no surprises.
Even if your Snowdog is being delivered to your house, it will need to be unloaded from the truck. If there's no ramp or power tailgate service available, you'll need some extra hands to get your Snowdog off the truck. Lift with the knees!
Snowdogs come from the factory in snazzy little metal crates, and the Snowdog is usually shrink-wrapped and wire-tied from the track frame to the crate to keep it from wandering off during transport. You'll need pliers or heavy wire cutters to get the ties off. You might also need a utility knife to carefully remove the plastic wrapping from the Snowdog. Bonus - this crate makes as a great base for a wood shed, bench, or to lock up your ice fishing buddies if they catch more than you!
There are only two things you need to do once you've completely removed the bubble-wrap and shrink-wrap from the machine, and once it's been freed from its crate:
This is a good time to hydrate.
In order to ensure that you have full warranty coverage, we'll need you to complete the warranty registration form that is in the handy zipper pocket of the cargo area. Fill that in, scan it (or take a photo) and email it to us and we'll get you registered immediately.
Assuming the conditions are right it's a good idea to take your Snowdog out for a test run, so you can practice turning, starting, stopping, and in some cases, proper "falling out" techniques. Please note that "right conditions" include:
It won't take long before you get the hang of the Snowdog steering.
Remember that the secret to a good long-term relationship with your Snowdog is the proper care and feeding of your new dog. Take some time to look through the manual and plan for regular oil changes and frequent chain lubrication. Also make a note to tighten all the bolts on the engine platform at least once a season.
We hope you enjoy your new Snowdog!
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Just to recap quickly, we have a Compact 13HP Snowdog (in Snow Camo) that we've been testing in Manitoba and NW Ontario for the last year. It's a great machine, and very capable in all kinds of conditions. We follow some Facebook groups where studded tracks are a topic of much interest, and so we decided to do some testing. We tested the Kold Kutter #10 x 5/8" studs. After installing them and using them for a season, here's what we found!
Our first impressions on snow were "meh". Obviously, unless the studs have something to actually grip, there won't be any noticeable improvement in traction. Initially, we tested the studded track in areas we've traveled before: snow-covered trails, roads, and snow-covered lakes. There was no improvement in traction or steering at all.
Then we decided to visit Lake Winnipeg, a large body of water just North of us. In the winter after freeze-up, Big Windy has vast open areas of ice that are windswept and nearly perfectly smooth. With no snow for the track to grab, the acceleration on a Snowdog is, at best, "underwhelming". With studs installed, though, the Snowdog accelerated to full speed without any hesitation. The studs made a 100% difference.
BUT THERE'S A CATCH
If, like me, you are fussy about things like your garage floor, your truck bed or utility trailer decking, then you'll want to find a way to maneuver your Snowdog without taking sharp turns or dragging it. Studs are designed to grip, and they're good at what they do! I have some pretty deep scratches in my garage floor and on my trailer to prove it.
THE VERDICT
We learned that in certain conditions, studs make a huge difference. If you're going to be using your Snowdog mostly on bare ice, then studs will definitely give you maximum grip.
OH, and this...
If you decide to go with studs, we recommend getting the sled skate kit, too. This will help your sled track properly behind your Snowdog and prevent "trailer whip".. which is helpful, since you're also in the trailer.
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One solution is to stud your tracks! Snowdog tracks are designed for studs, making it easy to add them. Each paddle has a series of available stud positions, and each paddle has an alternating pattern.
For our first attempt at studding tracks, we're using Kold Kutter brand studs, 5/8" in length. These studs looks like slotted wood screws, but they have a sharp edge around the head. You can install them easily with a socket tool and screw gun.
We ended up installing 168 studs in an alternating pattern because using all of the available spots would have used more than the 250 pcs we purchased. It also seemed like overkill.
Installation took about 30 minutes, and we just rolled the machine backwards to access each paddle. The only thing you need to watch for is over-tightening the screw.
We're looking forward to updating this post with the results of our testing!
Stay tuned!
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Recently, we were installing a new reverse gear kit in a Compact 13HP Snowdog and we noticed some things that we thought were important to consider down the road.
The Reverse Gearbox and the engine are attached to a plate that is bolted to the frame of your Snowdog. If the engine mount bolts vibrate loose (it can happen) it could allow the engine to shift position, putting the clutch out of alignment with the driven pulley. This may cause excessive wear on the belt, or diminished power or performance. It may even prevent your Reverse Gearbox from functioning properly.
At least once a season, it's a good idea to check this measurement:
...and also the alignment of the pulleys:
If the spacing isn't correct or if the pulleys aren't aligned, you can adjust the position of the engine by loosening the four bolts at the base of the engine block and repositioning the engine.
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And if you thought it was a lot of work to put together the “first annual” of anything, I can’t even imagine the pressure to come up with an encore. I think Kickerfish nailed it! There were all kinds of contests, demonstrations and lots of new and innovative products on display. We were thrilled to have one of our very own Snowdogs front and center in a huge ice fishing display as you walked in to the show. At every turn there was something new to see! It sure wasn’t the same show as last year, even if a good portion of the exhibitors were the same. There were some amazing prize draws too, for anyone who took advantage of the deals at the show.
Just like last year, we learned a lot at this show. It was great to catch up with some of our friends, too: Todd Longley (City Cats), Dan Kaizik (Cat Eye Fishing), Mike Dotoli (Two Rivers Boat Works) and we even had an opportunity to catch up with some of our customers! As always, we enjoyed hearing stories of the “original” Snowdog: the Hus-Ski and the Diablo Rouge from attendees who remember them first-hand or even owned one back in the 60’s. Thanks to all of you who stopped by to share your stories and to compare notes. It was a pleasure meeting all of the folks that stopped by our booth, even if we couldn’t convince some of you that Snowdogs were better than your enclosed, heated side-by-side with tracks.
This year we took a more casual approach at the show. We focused one the practical uses of the Snowdog in winter for things like ice fishing, but also their summertime uses, like hunting and even farming. These are unique and very capable machines that can do much more than just haul ice fishing gear (which they do very well, I have to say), and if an ATV or snowmobile isn’t in the budget, a Snowdog might be worth a closer look.
From all of us at Recreation Revolution, thanks to the Kickerfish team and all the volunteers that made the 2nd annual Winnipeg Ice Fishing Show a great success. We’re looking forward to next year’s show! Until then, we hope to see you on the ice!
Recreation Revolution is Winnipeg’s only Snowdog dealer, and we service what we sell! We want your business, Brad, or James, or Jane.. whoever you are, wherever you fish, whatever the job… we want to help you get outside too.
We offer free delivery within 100km of Winnipeg. Call us today to book a test drive or visit us online at www.recreationrevolution.ca!
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The MER (Reverse Gearbox kit) can be ordered pre-installed on any 13HP Standard Snowdog or on it's own to retrofit any13HP Standard or Compact unit. All MER kits come pre-filled with 3.38 oz (100ml) of SAE 5W30 Engine oil, which is suitable for most driving conditions in Canada.
It is important to check your Gearbox oil on a regular basis.
A synthetic engine oil 5W30 is used by the manufacturer. This oil type is suitable idea for ambient temperatures of 14° F (-10°C) or lower. The manual does indicate other options based on ambient temperature, but we use the factory-supplied Synthetic 5W30 in our reverse kit gearboxes. If you use your machine in the summer months, then a higher viscosity oil would be a good idea.
There are two main factors that cause oil leaks in the reverse gearbox:
Due to the nature of the gearbox construction, it is virtually impossible to remove all of the oil from the gearbox without disassembling it. When pumping out the oil with an oil pump, even with a thin tube, it's likely that about 0.68 fl. oz. (20 ml) will remain in the gearbox. Therefore, during the oil change, be sure to add no more than 2.7 fl. oz. (80 ml).