Snowmobile Technology

The idea for snowmobiles came from military technology

. Tracks used on the military's off road vehicles performed well in snowy conditions. This technology was copied by Canadian Joseph-Armand Bombardier when he created his first multi-passenger large snowmobiles and later his smaller Ski-Do.

There are four major components to make them work: an engine, clutch, tracks, and skis. Adding a windshield and seat similar to those found on motorcycles added to their usefulness as well. The ride is made more comfortable with a good set of snowmobile shocks.

The engine used is similar to those found in personal watercraft and powers the track drive. This large gear mechanism rotates the tracks, making the machine move. The faster the engine goes, the faster the tracks turn and the faster you go.

The clutch system is a pulley based continuously variable transmission. It consists of two pulleys connected by a drive belt. The primary clutch sits on top of the engine, with a pressure spring that holds the primary clutch's two halves apart when the engine's rpm is low. When the engine accelerates, the clutch weights generate centrifugal force that closes the clutch and allows the belt to move freely to transmit power.

The secondary clutch connected to the track drive turns the wheels to power the tracks. This clutch also has a spring that operates the cams that are sensitive to torque. When the engine's rpm increases and the primary clutch transmits power, the cams squeeze and tighten the belt.

This continues during acceleration. Once in top speed, the primary clutch closes and moves the belt into a higher gear. Since it needs less power to maintain speed than it did during acceleration, the secondary clutch now opens. This process of changing gears happens smoothly at all stages.

The tracks used are similar to tank tracks, but made out of lighter more flexible materials such as rubber. Tracks spread out the weight over a greater surface area, allowing travel on soft, unstable, slippery terrain and also preventing sinking in soft snow. Sharp studs added to the tracks give added traction during icy conditions.

Instead of using the tracks to steer, a snowmobile uses a handlebar/ski mechanism. Steering is similar to turning handlebars to steer a bicycle or motorcycle. The handlebars are connected to the skis mounted at the bottom of the snowmobile. Snowmobile shocks keep the ride comfortable and help you stay in better control. These snowmobile shocks have improved greatly over the years.

by: Angel Chodie.

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