I have a 98 wt 500fan and love it. That thing is like a tank. You are correct in saying they don’t turn well. The best thing to do is upgrade to the new skandic skis with the 10” liners. Mine has an axe and chainsaw holder. A good skandic saying up here in Maine is never tell a skandic owner you won’t make it because that is taken as a challenge. I wish mine was a swt but I’ve been able to climb a 35 degree slope with it.
The new ride looks great! Nice job cleaning her up. Since moving south, I have to say snowmobiles are the one thing I miss. They are easily one of the most fun and satisfying machines to operate.
My first sled was a 74 Lynx with the wide track. I could go out in a foot of slush, stop, have a snack and never worry about it sinking. Flotation is a great friend when you're pulling a toboggan full of wood😉
At one time in the late 60's and mid 70's, we had 6 SkiDoo's. Three of them were Alpines and an Invader, which had a single ski and 2 -15 inch tracks. They were workhorses, but wouldnt turn very good! Back before snowmobiles became popular, my dad took ice fishermen out on Saginaw bay with a 12 passenger Bombardier ice taxi. Them were the days!
I had two Alpines and even had a push bumper where you could hook them in tandem for real deep snow. They steer hard where you lean on the outside track to make a turn. I have a Polaris 600 IQ 20”x155” track. It has both an heat exchanger and a radiator. With the EFI it gets real good mileage.
Beauty - I have the 2005 Skandic WT so only a 20” wide track. Got it from a guy who only went back and forth to his ice shack. He let the carb boots split (he really had no idea about any mechanical items) and scored both cylinders. I had to rebuild the top end when it only had 2000k on it but oh well, it’s absolutely perfect now! Pulls like a tank and has a drinking problem but it’s the best machine I have ever had.
I can absolutely attest to the SKIDOO SKANDIC being damn near bullet-proof. Especially the wide track. I have seen and done back country exploring on my property in 6 feet of powder snow with this machine. Best part of owning one of these older models is that they made soooooo many of the damn things. Parts are not hard to find even in this supply chain shortage. Best wishes brother.
I love the way you talk about a new sled even if it’s 15 years old. I do the same for new is not within my budget, but the smile on my face when i ‘m riding is not smaller! 😊I run a 95 wt skandic, the squared nose one for it was made by lynx in finland. It is a bit smaller than yours, perfect for me, pull 3/4 of cord of wood with ease yet still manageable between tight spots.
You'll be very happy with your "new" Skandic. We sold our 2006 SWT this spring, and just got our 2022 SWT Skandic with the 4 stroke engine. Nice and quiet. Our 2006 also had rust issues, as the previous owner trailered it a lot, and never cleaned off the road salt, here in Northern Minnesota. One item we had to replace a few times was the rubber boots attaching the carbs to the engine. Nice job on the restore.
Wow nice work on rebuilding the Skandic. It's a real treat taking the old and broken and bringing it back to life, and giving it a future! Happy trails!
Awesome machine!! You did real nice job getting her looking so sweet! Good luck with it. I'm still riding my '97 Skandic WT....amazing machines! The only thing I would recommend is some wide plastic ski skins to get better front end floatation in the deep stuff! Great video.. Thanks
I have a 1998 Skandic SWT 24" and I know that you will be extremely happy with the work it can do. I have several times pulled decent sized logs with it...16 foot long by about 24' butt diameter(basswood)...It took a few jerks to get the log moving but once going there was no problem getting it back to the mill about a quarter mile distant. Having the low gear is definitely the key in order to haul bigger loads as you mentioned. Reverse is also a definite necessity as the machine weighs about 600 pounds. Mine has stock pintle AND ball hitch installed which is the only difference I noticed between yours and mine. Having a fan cooled machine is a must for me as I have to use it in late fall and early spring when there is hardly any snow but enough where I cannot use an ATV yet.
I have a 1987 Tundra 250 “ one lunger “ light weight! Converted it to a LT ( long track ) ski skins on the front make each ski about 10” wide. I also cleaned that one up and would NEVER part with it. Love the sled you bought. I have no experience on the SWT Sleds. Would love to try one though for what I do I don’t need one. Recently found your channel, have enjoyed it very much.
@@sawingwithsandy Thank you Sandy. I will be building a small off grid cabin on my property. This will be locally purchased green rough sawn lumber.Ultimately I will build a house there. I would LOVE to have a saw mill set up similar to yours. That might not happen but I will build a solar Kiln and buy rough lumber locally and dry it.
the tundra is much better then the super-wide tracks. at least if tundra is not pulling 4000 pounds of gear trail-breaking. tundra longtrack is perfect machine for expeditions outside the trails ! :)
Had three Skandiks over the years with 2 stroke engines.......but if you want hassle free, get Expedition from 07 up, you can't kill them and go anywhere, even in reverse with the flap off of course .......over 24000 KMS on my old one now trapping and hauling wood and still going strong on second belt, same spark plugs because it didn't need changing! Maintenance is the key though. Like your vids.
Thanks for the sled update. Had 1970 AMF skidadler back in the day. Thought about getting another sled for the days snow was too deep to get tractor to woods. But don't get much snow any more. And all the work you had to do on it make me glad I didn't 😊
I was literally just going through RUclips looking at utility skidoo reviews and what pops up but a review from one of my favorite tubers. Awesome work Sandy your an inspiration. Ordering my WM 130 this spring
I'm also owner of BRP SWT, made in Finland and labelled Lynx 6900 Army. Hell's bell's this thing is unstoppable. It runs over darn powder like ptarmigan, regardless slowly through the thick forest or gliding over clear places. I do astonished most pleasantly by it's abilities. Steel frame but light as a feather, or next gen Scandics with Alu frame and 20 inch track. BTW, your garage is made of real wooden planks. Hell it should cost a lot of money, if i understand USA circuimstances correctly.
You are going to love that machine. I have had a 97 an 04 and now have a 2012. It is amazing what they will do and you can back out of almost any mess you get into. Have fun and enjoy the swt
I had a 399 Olympic Ski Doo fan cooled. Every end of season stripped the sled. Cleaned the tunnel and repainted with rustelum semi gloss black. Always looked mint. Fan cooling is the way to go.
Hey Sandy! Great find and great to see how you’ve took so much pride in bringing it back and ultimately keeping the old iron going as I say :). Totally get about the blood sweat and tears on a project like that as I’ve had projects like that myself that I get passionate about :). Yes those olde sleds are tanks and glad to see that you were able to pick one up! Looking forward to seeing it in action! Take care and also thanks for the sled talk and tour! Andrew from NB :)
@@sawingwithsandy hey there, no we didn’t really end up with to much here where I’m at in central NB, just enough to turn the woods white and be able to leave tracks with my Brute Force! Planning on getting out soon for some colder / snowy partridge hunting.. fall and winter are my favourite times of the year to be outside :) Will be getting the sled out soon for the trails. Andrew from NB :)
I’m currently waiting on mine to be barged up to Alaska. My brother n law won a couple from the Forestry department auction and I bought one of them. It’s a 2006 WT not the swt but it’ll do way better than the Bearcat I’m riding now with a standard width track. Looking forward to hauling logs with it this spring.
Hey Sandy - nice machine that SWT... what a tank eh? I had a VK540 (20" track) for a few years, and just like you, I found a 2002 SWT for sale in spring 2021 and jumped on it. I use it for grooming our ski trails, and it seems to pull better than the VK, and definitely turns way better than the VK. Just like you, I'm happy with my machine so far... although I've got to do some restoration next year on the steel chassis... some rust starting on it.
I like the fact you went the distance and fixed up that skandic.Those machines are highly sought after here in northeast ontario.I oil spray the tunnels on the steel chassis also,and before there put away for the summer.Things are just to expensive anymore to neglect.I love the long tracks for bush running up here.Nice work.We got about 12 inches of snow,and bitter cold.
I was searching for way to adjust the belt in a 2006 Skidoo expedition and you are the first to show the gearbox on the same side as the drive assembly. The space between the gearbox and the secondary pulley is so narrow that I cannot adjust deflection and changing belt is a real pain as it is impossible to use the small pulley opening tool. I wonder if you had to remove the gearbox to access and fix the distance between pulleys. Anyway enjoy your Skandic. It is a very useful sled for heavy work. Replacing the Alpine skidoo very well.
Those are all sweet sleds but that Skandic is a true workhorse. You're gonna get your money's worth out of it in one season I bet (just need some snow). My grandfather gave me his 3 older sleds this year: a 66, a 70, and a 72 all olympiques. And you can still get parts! My local dealer had carb kits on the shelf! They're relics but they're great beaters for my young boys.
My brother and I convinced our father that this exact skidoo was what he needed at the cabin. After a few years riding it to get wood and water at the cabin... he wants an expedition instead. My 70yo father is unable to yank this thing side to side, when the sled decides it's going to tip on the side, he just fall off the sled. He think the pole strut suspension style make the Scandic more prone to tit side to side... since its less wide.
Hey Sandy, Nice work on cleaning up your newest snowmobile. A little elbow grease and love go a long way. Looking forward to seeing it in action. Stay safe 🪓🪵🌲
Had a 97 ski Doo formula sl 500f for years. Was a great sled but one day the fan belt broke and well the motor followed shortly after. Rebuilt the motor from the crank up, new .20 over pistons, bored out the heads and used it for many years later, but I always had a spare fan belt with me. Just advice for the fan engines check that fan belt everytime you go out, any sign of wear change it. That fan belt spins with the engine, when idling it's spinning, when you rev up the motor it spins faster and so on, keep an eye on those fans belts. Great for work sleds though, ice fishing and whatnot. Many times buddies would be over heating in the lake cause there was no snow and the fan cooled was chugging along. Over 35-40 degrees the fan engines really bog down. But other then that easy maintenance, lighter weight then it's compared liquid cooled ( 500F vs 500L) and just overall better for a work snowmobile in my opinion. And have to mention after being bored out and rebuilt with little larger Pistons that ol 500 fan was just as quick as 500 liquid cooled sleds that friends had.
Very nice fleet of machines. With the short shelf life of today’s gasoline it is best to completely drain your machines if you can and start with some fresh fuel at the beginning of the snowmobile season. I started doing this and have eliminated many of the problems that I used to have.
Great to hear! I've really found this to be a game-changer compared with my 2003 Skidoo Grand Touring which I was using for utility work. Like going from a lawn tractor to a farm tractor
Sandy, years ago, I had a 1969 Skidoo, narrow track with a "one lung" Rotax engine. The carb was at balls height, so if it backfired, you knew about it, lmao! Memories!!
Never been on a snow machine, can only imagine the fun. We get snow but it never stays more then maybe a week before the rain returns. Northern Western WA. State. Great video as always!
I can’t believe how little snow you have we have about 3 feet in Creighton Saskatchewan I have a skandic 600 Ace with 24” track with high and low range with reverse it’s been an awesome machine
I have never owned or even been on a snow Mobile but I'm sure they would be a blast. Does look to me you have went the extra mile to get this machine in really good condition it all looks very good and you did make it look new again. Great video Sandy I did learn some things that where interesting. Thanks
I never rode on one of those snow machines before.. Always wanted to... Your newly acquired machine sure looks pretty clean and stout enough to get the job done, cant wait to see it in action. Keep up the great work there brother..
ahh dont vory. they are not better than the 50cm WT. They loose the traction real easy due to too big footprint and not enough pressure on the snow. :( (floats to much to get good grip) :(
Nice find Sandy, I have been hunting for one for a while, covid pricing on snow machines is also not helping. I'm not sure where you are in Ontario, but we got quite a dump of snow, finally, last night so your ready to go now!
Yeah we got a good dump of snow last night as well finally. Looking firward to getting some seat time on the skandic. Hard to believe the price of used machines these days
I can see how those would be fun as well as useful for people that have snow where they live, but I would never get a chance to use one here in southeast Texas. Thanks for sharing, I enjoyed learning about something new to me.
Gordon here , I still have my old timer double track ski-doo Alpine better name any how I ran a trapline that would take all day to pack trails 4 tracks wide (15 inch) each track , then the next day head out with my faith full trike with the front ski off the double track held on with a ratchet strap to front tire and Metal homemade sled with runners made off a 52 chev pickup truck that would cost me a gallon gas a day and ski-doo cost 5 gallon a day. So I used the trike (still got it ) (175 Yamaha) and I still love it more than the quad. And also I got a a Moto-ski that is one racer little one lol.
you sure got that right about the super wide not turning well. I groomed xc for years and the super wides were our work horses. Sucks to get one stuck, always bring a shovel and have a 2 ton come a long handy. you should have no problems though, if you track pack 1st, but you probably know that. Thanks for the videos
@@miffoivan Hey Mif, my experience comes mainly from towing a 300# grooming drag. My preferred snow mobile when I was working at the xc center was a PistonBully pb 100. Heated seat, heated windshield, heated wipers, heated mirrors, tunes. Pretty cush @ -20 f.
We sent the snow to you now and cold from out west lol. (I'm in sask) I've been looking at these, the yamaha bravo trapper, elan and a couple others for ungroomed back country. I'll keep an eye out for any more videos of yours here I'm curious to see how it does in loose deep snow! I haven't decided which to get yet have seen a few of each around my area
Nice to see someone out there put snowmobiles up inside. Can’t believe all the guys that leave sleds setting outside uncovered and they look ten years older then they actual are
Very helpful dissertation on the various machines. I own a Skandic similar era, ready for some love for sure . I was hoping to find info on battery replacement, looks like that would be a project ! Also , any luck I can get your parts contact? Tnx.
I have the 800V SWT 4 stroke. Fuel injected starts first try regardless of conditions.I use it for towing ski grooming equipment. Quiet, not smelly, fuel efficient, just a tank. Does'nt like to get stuck, but if you do you're pooched.
I also have a skandic a 2000 with a 502engine you mentioned In your video you know somebody that is good at locating parts with these older snowmobile ,I use mine for ice fishing great machine . Bill
As an effort to ensure it won't ever snow again, I just bought a 2003 skandic 600. I was out talking with a very good mechanic buddy of mine and he said you don't want nothing but fan cooled. I'm starting to think I made a bad purchase but I can sell it. 18 degrees celsius when I got up this morning. Not feeling very snowy yet damn it :)
I’m sure looking forward to snow! I think if you maintain your sled you shouldn’t have a problem. With that said though I do like the fan engines for simplicity
Pretty cool! I've been craving having snowmobile lately. One of the worst accidents I've ever had was on one. Went over a large snow burm too fast and ended up flying off and landing flat on my back knocking myself out. Lucky I didn't break my back but still messed me up pretty good for a while. What's the worst accident you've had on a snowmobile Sandy? Very happy for you on your new purchase! Be safe and take care!
Sorry to hear that. I can imagine it wouldn't take much. Knock on wood I haven't had any bad accidents on sleds just because I don't drive them much except putting around pulling logs.
I have a 96 Polaris Trail touring with a 500 cc engine.This unit has really good traction in deep snow and the engine is bullet proof.It steers perfect.Not fast but really realiable.
I had an old wide track MotoSki years ago. When my buddies got stuck in a drift I would simply ride around them. Extra inches on the ground/snow make all the difference.
Yahoo! Welcome to the club. I really like my 2021 WT 600ACE Skandic. Have over 1300 miles now and have some pros and cons with the new chassis they used. Mind if I share my RUclips video link here to the tippy issues? Practical Porters Alaska. Cheers. Please post a review after your break in.
What a great machine. I'm curious where the drain plug is on that SISU transmission. I've been wanting to flush mine but it's unclear to me if I need to pump out the old oil or if there's a drain plug
I have a 95 Arctic cat panther Deluxe 440 fan they're the best In all conditions it's the ice fishing warrior. Was tired of my liquid cooled sleds always overheating and the 440 has outlasted them all.
I think "my dream sled" I would like a Yamaha VK (SRV)540 or the very sled you're talking about. There are two 550 SWTs in my area for sale right now....I'm going to look at one in the morning.
Hey Sandy, great videos. Nice to see the sleds still running good. Have you looked into Camso tracks for the ATV? Depending on the speed and distance you are going they are incredibly versatile. Great for hauling wood.
Hi, I actually just bought a Skandic 500 wt. It has the same Gearbox/Clutch system. But I can’t get it to idle jet… My guess is that the Belt is way to tight. As soon as it starts or try’s to start the belt already engages. I could not find any videos on these older Skandics and how to adjust the Belt because almost no other sleds have the gearbox. Any information how I can fix it is much appreciated! It just keeps dying and I can’t get into gear because the secondary clutch is always engaged… Thank you! A video on how to remove/replace the belt would be helpful aswell. The previous owner said he just replaced the belt and never drove it after that. So it could also be the wrong belt….
Hey sandy love ur stuff just got a woodland 126 got a problem with resin build up on the blade have u got a video that covers this keep up the good work
Hi Richard! I find with the resin build up a very small touch of dish soap in the water can help. There may be a video about two months back talking abotu different lubrication types. I tend to just stick to pure water mostly
Hey Sandy, always great videos and appreciate the extra time you take in setting up your camera shots and additional editing. Question : if you're looking for utilitarian usage, you might like trying tracks on ATV. We just got them for our log hauling for the Mill and they are remarkably capable. Sure they're not as quick as a sled, but they are more capable, in my non-professional opinion. For about 4k$, tracks will give you a solid contender. I'm still amazed by the power/floatation/traction they provide.
That’s great to hear. I always wondered how the tracked machines did. I think it would be something worth trying for sure if I could get a set for a decent price.
@@sawingwithsandy sell your two other sleds and you'll have a decent lump sum for a used, even possibly new set!😬😁 Especially if you're newly in love with your yellow giant, you won't feel the emotional loss as much!!😉😂 From the looks of it, you're set for winter regardless! That SWT is also my dream sled! Keep an eye out for used as it's typically a very easy conversion to whatever machine you have, pretty much bolt on.
Damn that black grand touring brings back some memories for me!!,,, my aunt use to let me drive around with her grand touring every single daay she would make sure to fill it up for me as a young teen… but untill my aunties daughter’s boyfriend claimed it and broke it..
Looks like you may have a handlebar riser on the SWT. I had 2 of the 2006s and put 10,000 miles or so on them. Have a 2014 SWT 600 Etec now with close to 11,000 miles.
Full choke your 97 when it’s cold and it might start easier! That lever will go another 90 degrees. Just look at your carbs when you engage it and you’ll see the enrichment plunger move even further.
Is the 550 build in Finland? I have 3 440skandic lt build in Finland and I would say best snow machine ever built for trapping and narrow trails. Although would a bit tippy for average riders
Nice work fixing up the SWT. I would have liked to see the process but I realize it takes longer to film it while you work. I need to get my 2000 SWT running again. When it last started it would run for about 15 minutes and then quit. Then it wouldn't start again until after sitting for a couple of days. Not sure what would cause such an odd symptom but it was repeatable. Does anybody know if there's an online forum for owners of these beasts to share info?
I have a 98 wt 500fan and love it. That thing is like a tank. You are correct in saying they don’t turn well. The best thing to do is upgrade to the new skandic skis with the 10” liners. Mine has an axe and chainsaw holder. A good skandic saying up here in Maine is never tell a skandic owner you won’t make it because that is taken as a challenge. I wish mine was a swt but I’ve been able to climb a 35 degree slope with it.
The new ride looks great! Nice job cleaning her up. Since moving south, I have to say snowmobiles are the one thing I miss. They are easily one of the most fun and satisfying machines to operate.
I agree with ya there. The “woo hoo” factor is high when I’m out for a rip on the sleds
“Old” machines are the best. Just got myself a 2004 Tundra R. New enough to not be all dry rotted, old enough to be easy to work on.
My first sled was a 74 Lynx with the wide track. I could go out in a foot of slush, stop, have a snack and never worry about it sinking. Flotation is a great friend when you're pulling a toboggan full of wood😉
I bet! Those lynx's are great!
No doubt! That's the 1st sled I ever bought , I was 10. Wallowed snow like crazy but needed a running start to cross a paved road
At one time in the late 60's and mid 70's, we had 6 SkiDoo's. Three of them were Alpines and an Invader, which had a single ski and 2 -15 inch tracks. They were workhorses, but wouldnt turn very good! Back before snowmobiles became popular, my dad took ice fishermen out on Saginaw bay with a 12 passenger Bombardier ice taxi. Them were the days!
Those ice taxis sure are a great unit. I wish I had a reason to own one!
I had two Alpines and even had a push bumper where you could hook them in tandem for real deep snow. They steer hard where you lean on the outside track to make a turn. I have a Polaris 600 IQ 20”x155” track. It has both an heat exchanger and a radiator. With the EFI it gets real good mileage.
We were off Thompson road this week...hit eyes and perch
Beauty - I have the 2005 Skandic WT so only a 20” wide track. Got it from a guy who only went back and forth to his ice shack. He let the carb boots split (he really had no idea about any mechanical items) and scored both cylinders. I had to rebuild the top end when it only had 2000k on it but oh well, it’s absolutely perfect now! Pulls like a tank and has a drinking problem but it’s the best machine I have ever had.
I can absolutely attest to the SKIDOO SKANDIC being damn near bullet-proof. Especially the wide track. I have seen and done back country exploring on my property in 6 feet of powder snow with this machine. Best part of owning one of these older models is that they made soooooo many of the damn things. Parts are not hard to find even in this supply chain shortage. Best wishes brother.
Any idea where to start, trying to swap seat over to a 2 up on my wt skandic 550f. Surely someone has done a modification!
That’s a beautiful sled dude. I enjoy your snowmobiling videos, thanks for sharing. ✌️
Thanks for watching Andrew
Those older Scandics are fantastic. You don't see too many around here. Congrats on your new to you sled.
I love the way you talk about a new sled even if it’s 15 years old. I do the same for new is not within my budget, but the smile on my face when i ‘m riding is not smaller! 😊I run a 95 wt skandic, the squared nose one for it was made by lynx in finland. It is a bit smaller than yours, perfect for me, pull 3/4 of cord of wood with ease yet still manageable between tight spots.
You'll be very happy with your "new" Skandic. We sold our 2006 SWT this spring, and just got our 2022 SWT Skandic with the 4 stroke engine. Nice and quiet. Our 2006 also had rust issues, as the previous owner trailered it a lot, and never cleaned off the road salt, here in Northern Minnesota. One item we had to replace a few times was the rubber boots attaching the carbs to the engine. Nice job on the restore.
Sawing, Snowmobiling and Sludge... You have a perfect trifecta for enjoying Winter!
haha I try to make it through the best I can
Wow nice work on rebuilding the Skandic. It's a real treat taking the old and broken and bringing it back to life, and giving it a future! Happy trails!
Awesome machine!! You did real nice job getting her looking so sweet! Good luck with it. I'm still riding my '97 Skandic WT....amazing machines! The only thing I would recommend is some wide plastic ski skins to get better front end floatation in the deep stuff! Great video.. Thanks
Indeed, @xc center we had ski skins for the added float on and of groomed trails
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I have a 1998 Skandic SWT 24" and I know that you will be extremely happy with the work it can do. I have several times pulled decent sized logs with it...16 foot long by about 24' butt diameter(basswood)...It took a few jerks to get the log moving but once going there was no problem getting it back to the mill about a quarter mile distant. Having the low gear is definitely the key in order to haul bigger loads as you mentioned. Reverse is also a definite necessity as the machine weighs about 600 pounds. Mine has stock pintle AND ball hitch installed which is the only difference I noticed between yours and mine.
Having a fan cooled machine is a must for me as I have to use it in late fall and early spring when there is hardly any snow but enough where I cannot use an ATV yet.
Great to hear Mike! I’m looking forward to putting this to the test
Is that You Mike , and do you really have a Skandic !! Van
I have a 1987 Tundra 250 “ one lunger “ light weight! Converted it to a LT ( long track ) ski skins on the front make each ski about 10” wide. I also cleaned that one up and would NEVER part with it. Love the sled you bought. I have no experience on the SWT Sleds. Would love to try one though for what I do I don’t need one. Recently found your channel, have enjoyed it very much.
Welcome to the channel John! Great to hear you like the older machines just like me. I feel like it’s my job now to preserve some of the old stuff
@@sawingwithsandy Thank you Sandy. I will be building a small off grid cabin on my property. This will be locally purchased green rough sawn lumber.Ultimately I will build a house there. I would LOVE to have a saw mill set up similar to yours. That might not happen but I will build a solar Kiln and buy rough lumber locally and dry it.
the tundra is much better then the super-wide tracks. at least if tundra is not pulling 4000 pounds of gear trail-breaking. tundra longtrack is perfect machine for expeditions outside the trails ! :)
Hey Sandy, you should add a primer to your touring. It takes about 30min., and costs around $30 bucks. Best upgrade I did to mine. Love your videos.
Or he should just put the choke full on.
Had three Skandiks over the years with 2 stroke engines.......but if you want hassle free, get Expedition from 07 up, you can't kill them and go anywhere, even in reverse with the flap off of course .......over 24000 KMS on my old one now trapping and hauling wood and still going strong on second belt, same spark plugs because it didn't need changing! Maintenance is the key though. Like your vids.
Thanks for the sled update. Had 1970 AMF skidadler back in the day. Thought about getting another sled for the days snow was too deep to get tractor to woods. But don't get much snow any more. And all the work you had to do on it make me glad I didn't 😊
Sure are nice units those old AMF machines
I was literally just going through RUclips looking at utility skidoo reviews and what pops up but a review from one of my favorite tubers.
Awesome work Sandy your an inspiration. Ordering my WM 130 this spring
Right on! Great to hear Scott. I love the utility sleds . The new ones are likely quite a bit nicer but this one was budge t friendly
I'm also owner of BRP SWT, made in Finland and labelled Lynx 6900 Army. Hell's bell's this thing is unstoppable. It runs over darn powder like ptarmigan, regardless slowly through the thick forest or gliding over clear places. I do astonished most pleasantly by it's abilities. Steel frame but light as a feather, or next gen Scandics with Alu frame and 20 inch track.
BTW, your garage is made of real wooden planks. Hell it should cost a lot of money, if i understand USA circuimstances correctly.
You are going to love that machine. I have had a 97 an 04 and now have a 2012. It is amazing what they will do and you can back out of almost any mess you get into. Have fun and enjoy the swt
I had a 399 Olympic Ski Doo fan cooled. Every end of season stripped the sled. Cleaned the tunnel and repainted with rustelum semi gloss black. Always looked mint. Fan cooling is the way to go.
I"m with ya on the fan cooling Jason
Sandy, I'm running a 2019 Expedition SWT. It is amazing what the 24" track machines can do. Welcome to the super wide family.
Yessir! I love my SWT Expedition as well!
Right on! Thanks Doug! I'm finding this is a game changer for sure
Hey Sandy! Great find and great to see how you’ve took so much pride in bringing it back and ultimately keeping the old iron going as I say :). Totally get about the blood sweat and tears on a project like that as I’ve had projects like that myself that I get passionate about :). Yes those olde sleds are tanks and glad to see that you were able to pick one up! Looking forward to seeing it in action! Take care and also thanks for the sled talk and tour! Andrew from NB :)
Hey Andrew! Not sure if you guys got the big snow this weekend but we sure are digging out here and I’ll have that skandic out real soon
@@sawingwithsandy hey there, no we didn’t really end up with to much here where I’m at in central NB, just enough to turn the woods white and be able to leave tracks with my Brute Force! Planning on getting out soon for some colder / snowy partridge hunting.. fall and winter are my favourite times of the year to be outside :) Will be getting the sled out soon for the trails. Andrew from NB :)
I’m currently waiting on mine to be barged up to Alaska. My brother n law won a couple from the Forestry department auction and I bought one of them. It’s a 2006 WT not the swt but it’ll do way better than the Bearcat I’m riding now with a standard width track. Looking forward to hauling logs with it this spring.
Hey Sandy - nice machine that SWT... what a tank eh? I had a VK540 (20" track) for a few years, and just like you, I found a 2002 SWT for sale in spring 2021 and jumped on it. I use it for grooming our ski trails, and it seems to pull better than the VK, and definitely turns way better than the VK. Just like you, I'm happy with my machine so far... although I've got to do some restoration next year on the steel chassis... some rust starting on it.
Sandy, that's awesome. I love how you place such value on practical/utility features... enjoy!!!
I’m all about the function or form with most of my things although having some new machines one day that aren’t over 10 years old would be nice haha
I like the fact you went the distance and fixed up that skandic.Those machines are highly sought after here in northeast ontario.I oil spray the tunnels on the steel chassis also,and before there put away for the summer.Things are just to expensive anymore to neglect.I love the long tracks for bush running up here.Nice work.We got about 12 inches of snow,and bitter cold.
I agree with ya there. Even the parts to get them fixed up can be hard to find at times
I was searching for way to adjust the belt in a 2006 Skidoo expedition and you are the first to show the gearbox on the same side as the drive assembly. The space between the gearbox and the secondary pulley is so narrow that I cannot adjust deflection and changing belt is a real pain as it is impossible to use the small pulley opening tool. I wonder if you had to remove the gearbox to access and fix the distance between pulleys. Anyway enjoy your Skandic. It is a very useful sled for heavy work. Replacing the Alpine skidoo very well.
Hi Antoine, I"m still relatively new to the skandic so unfortunately I can't help you on this one. Hope you're able to find a solution
Wow I hope you got a good deal on your new machine. You sure went over it and spent a buck or two and lots of time. Good luck great job thanks. 🇨🇦👍
Thanks Tom
Those are all sweet sleds but that Skandic is a true workhorse. You're gonna get your money's worth out of it in one season I bet (just need some snow). My grandfather gave me his 3 older sleds this year: a 66, a 70, and a 72 all olympiques. And you can still get parts! My local dealer had carb kits on the shelf! They're relics but they're great beaters for my young boys.
Can’t go wrong there! Those old sleds are something great to keep going for sure
My brother and I convinced our father that this exact skidoo was what he needed at the cabin.
After a few years riding it to get wood and water at the cabin... he wants an expedition instead.
My 70yo father is unable to yank this thing side to side,
when the sled decides it's going to tip on the side, he just fall off the sled.
He think the pole strut suspension style make the Scandic more prone to tit side to side... since its less wide.
Hey Sandy,
Nice work on cleaning up your newest snowmobile. A little elbow grease and love go a long way. Looking forward to seeing it in action.
Stay safe 🪓🪵🌲
Thanks! I’m super happy with it
She sure is a beauty! I've been trying to get my neighbor to sell me his SWT 550f Skandic for years. He just loves it too much, can't blame him.
I can imagine. I'd probably be the same. Unless it blows up or something on me then I"ll hate the thing haha
Had a 97 ski Doo formula sl 500f for years. Was a great sled but one day the fan belt broke and well the motor followed shortly after. Rebuilt the motor from the crank up, new .20 over pistons, bored out the heads and used it for many years later, but I always had a spare fan belt with me. Just advice for the fan engines check that fan belt everytime you go out, any sign of wear change it. That fan belt spins with the engine, when idling it's spinning, when you rev up the motor it spins faster and so on, keep an eye on those fans belts. Great for work sleds though, ice fishing and whatnot. Many times buddies would be over heating in the lake cause there was no snow and the fan cooled was chugging along. Over 35-40 degrees the fan engines really bog down. But other then that easy maintenance, lighter weight then it's compared liquid cooled ( 500F vs 500L) and just overall better for a work snowmobile in my opinion. And have to mention after being bored out and rebuilt with little larger Pistons that ol 500 fan was just as quick as 500 liquid cooled sleds that friends had.
Very nice fleet of machines. With the short shelf life of today’s gasoline it is best to completely drain your machines if you can and start with some fresh fuel at the beginning of the snowmobile season. I started doing this and have eliminated many of the problems that I used to have.
I just bought this exact model and year. So exited to try this at Latuque in Québec Canada. Thanks for sharing!
Great to hear! I've really found this to be a game-changer compared with my 2003 Skidoo Grand Touring which I was using for utility work. Like going from a lawn tractor to a farm tractor
Sandy, years ago, I had a 1969 Skidoo, narrow track with a "one lung" Rotax engine. The carb was at balls height, so if it backfired, you knew about it, lmao! Memories!!
Wow that sure would keep ya warm though when it did backfire. Blood pressure would be up there haha
Nice job on the Skandic, that will pull a log or two for sure. Stay warm Sandy! 🏝🍻🌴
For sure! We just got some fresh snow so I"m looking forward to getting out soon.
Never been on a snow machine, can only imagine the fun. We get snow but it never stays more then maybe a week before the rain returns. Northern Western WA. State. Great video as always!
Thanks Keldy! They sure are fun to get around on. Helps me get through the long winter months haha
Excellent video. Congratulations on your new acquisition
Thanks Rick!
Something different! I enjoyed that. Good explanations. Thanks for sharing!
That’s great to hear Marvin!
I can’t believe how little snow you have we have about 3 feet in Creighton Saskatchewan I have a skandic 600 Ace with 24” track with high and low range with reverse it’s been an awesome machine
Nice machine you got there! Yeah this winter has been incredibly light for snow unfortunately
Trying to find one of these in the states is damn near impossible
Lots of snow in sk
very nice...I run a 97 Transport for a work machine, but have always admired the Scandi
I have never owned or even been on a snow Mobile but I'm sure they would be a blast. Does look to me you have went the extra mile to get this machine in really good condition it all looks very good and you did make it look new again. Great video Sandy I did learn some things that where interesting. Thanks
Thanks ! I took some pride in this one
I never rode on one of those snow machines before.. Always wanted to...
Your newly acquired machine sure looks pretty clean and stout enough to get the job done, cant wait to see it in action. Keep up the great work there brother..
Thanks Steve! Sure is a brute of a machine
ahh dont vory. they are not better than the 50cm WT. They loose the traction real easy due to too big footprint and not enough pressure on the snow. :( (floats to much to get good grip) :(
Nice find Sandy, I have been hunting for one for a while, covid pricing on snow machines is also not helping. I'm not sure where you are in Ontario, but we got quite a dump of snow, finally, last night so your ready to go now!
Yeah we got a good dump of snow last night as well finally. Looking firward to getting some seat time on the skandic. Hard to believe the price of used machines these days
Have the 600 2006 liquide and it's an awesome machine. Very nice job you did on yours. Enjoy.
I can see how those would be fun as well as useful for people that have snow where they live, but I would never get a chance to use one here in southeast Texas. Thanks for sharing, I enjoyed learning about something new to me.
They sure are a fun way to pass the winter. Hope all is well and thanks for watching!
Interesting aspects I didn’t realize about snowmobiles. Have fun with it and looks like you did a great job fixing it up.
Thanks Russel!
Awesomeness, I can't wait to see your box building vid
Thanks Todd and you’re also right that I’m looking to build a cargo box now
Gordon here , I still have my old timer double track ski-doo Alpine better name any how I ran a trapline that would take all day to pack trails 4 tracks wide (15 inch) each track , then the next day head out with my faith full trike with the front ski off the double track held on with a ratchet strap to front tire and Metal homemade sled with runners made off a 52 chev pickup truck that would cost me a gallon gas a day and ski-doo cost 5 gallon a day. So I used the trike (still got it ) (175 Yamaha) and I still love it more than the quad. And also I got a a Moto-ski that is one racer little one lol.
Sounds like a great line up of machines! Love keeping the old machines alive
Ai think that Lynx 5900 early eighties.. was grand mother! wide track rules!
you sure got that right about the super wide not turning well. I groomed xc for years and the super wides were our work horses. Sucks to get one stuck, always bring a shovel and have a 2 ton come a long handy. you should have no problems though, if you track pack 1st, but you probably know that. Thanks for the videos
Great plan with the come along. I've had my smaller machines stuck and can just about imagine what this would be like. yikes!
yeah. its funny how you see that you cant get traction on a 60cm track... but i think its to wide for de real deep snow. :(
@@miffoivan Hey Mif, my experience comes mainly from towing a 300# grooming drag. My preferred snow mobile when I was working at the xc center was a PistonBully pb 100. Heated seat, heated windshield, heated wipers, heated mirrors, tunes. Pretty cush @ -20 f.
Thanks love those older machines. The pogo sticks are cool.
It sure is nice having the nostalgia of the old units around
We sent the snow to you now and cold from out west lol. (I'm in sask) I've been looking at these, the yamaha bravo trapper, elan and a couple others for ungroomed back country. I'll keep an eye out for any more videos of yours here I'm curious to see how it does in loose deep snow! I haven't decided which to get yet have seen a few of each around my area
Bravo
Nice to see someone out there put snowmobiles up inside. Can’t believe all the guys that leave sleds setting outside uncovered and they look ten years older then they actual are
They sure to do weather quick don't they when they're outside. I try my best to keep them inside where possible.
my dad is one of those people lol
We have two yamaha vk 540. We love them. Bullet proof always start. Minus 30 Celsius. Heated carb
I just bought a 2022 Skandic SWT 900, incredible.
Always enjoyed watching your videos! Good to see some of your equipment! Regret selling my 98 ski doo grand touring, that was used as my work sled!
The first Skandic we had a 1970 20" inch wide track 20 horse was intended to be rental machine.
I want one😊
Nice sled posse. I like your approach to upkeep / budget.
I sure wish I had brand new sleds but that’ would be a small fortune for sure
Very helpful dissertation on the various machines. I own a Skandic similar era, ready for some love for sure . I was hoping to find info on battery replacement, looks like that would be a project ! Also , any luck I can get your parts contact?
Tnx.
I have the 800V SWT 4 stroke. Fuel injected starts first try regardless of conditions.I use it for towing ski grooming equipment. Quiet, not smelly, fuel efficient, just a tank. Does'nt like to get stuck, but if you do you're pooched.
That sounds like a great machine!
I also have a skandic a 2000 with a 502engine you mentioned In your video you know somebody that is good at locating parts with these older snowmobile ,I use mine for ice fishing great machine . Bill
That's a nice machine you've got there Bill. The business I found that is able to get all kinds of parts for me is Fullerton's PAC fullertonspac.com
In fact it's 503 engine. Rotax 503. Many East Asia factories are producing parts for those engines.
I have a 1987 Skandic, red hood, 503 motor. Love it. would be lighter than newer machines. Leaf springs. I also have two spare motors.
That shed turned out great!!
I feel fortunate to have been able to save it as it was headed down hill fast
As an effort to ensure it won't ever snow again, I just bought a 2003 skandic 600. I was out talking with a very good mechanic buddy of mine and he said you don't want nothing but fan cooled. I'm starting to think I made a bad purchase but I can sell it. 18 degrees celsius when I got up this morning. Not feeling very snowy yet damn it :)
I’m sure looking forward to snow! I think if you maintain your sled you shouldn’t have a problem. With that said though I do like the fan engines for simplicity
Love Skandics , wish i could find a nice one like that . Great video
Thanks Tim! This was definitely an impulse buy but am happy I did
Pretty cool! I've been craving having snowmobile lately. One of the worst accidents I've ever had was on one. Went over a large snow burm too fast and ended up flying off and landing flat on my back knocking myself out. Lucky I didn't break my back but still messed me up pretty good for a while. What's the worst accident you've had on a snowmobile Sandy? Very happy for you on your new purchase! Be safe and take care!
Sorry to hear that. I can imagine it wouldn't take much. Knock on wood I haven't had any bad accidents on sleds just because I don't drive them much except putting around pulling logs.
Nice SWT! I’ve always wanted one or a Tundra for just bombing around in the woods.
I was in the same boat. Always wanted one and just happened to see this one day and I was the first person to make an offer
I have a 96 Polaris Trail touring with a 500 cc engine.This unit has really good traction in deep snow and the engine is bullet proof.It steers perfect.Not fast but really realiable.
That new old log sled will go great with your new old showrunner. Looks good. ☕🍻
Thanks Jake! Cheers
Great sled , make sure the gear case is serviced properly.
I had an old wide track MotoSki years ago. When my buddies got stuck in a drift I would simply ride around them. Extra inches on the ground/snow make all the difference.
Those are awesome units! Love the old ones
Yahoo! Welcome to the club. I really like my 2021 WT 600ACE Skandic. Have over 1300 miles now and have some pros and cons with the new chassis they used. Mind if I share my RUclips video link here to the tippy issues? Practical Porters Alaska.
Cheers.
Please post a review after your break in.
Thanks! Yeah I"m hoping it holds up long term. Those new ones sure are slick !
Nice machines , I would buy some covers for them . And keep up with the oil changes on the trans. In the off season keep the carbs empty .
What a great machine.
I'm curious where the drain plug is on that SISU transmission. I've been wanting to flush mine but it's unclear to me if I need to pump out the old oil or if there's a drain plug
You should always overfill the sisu gearboxes. the higher bearings will not get lubed when you drive slowley. That makes them fail :(
@@miffoivan Yes I've heard that. I plan to put in 1L of fluid
I have a 96 skidoo formula 500. Had it since I was a kid. I love the older stuff
Me too
I have a 95 Arctic cat panther Deluxe 440 fan they're the best In all conditions it's the ice fishing warrior. Was tired of my liquid cooled sleds always overheating and the 440 has outlasted them all.
I think "my dream sled" I would like a Yamaha VK (SRV)540 or the very sled you're talking about. There are two 550 SWTs in my area for sale right now....I'm going to look at one in the morning.
Great to hear. Hope you get one of them
I've always wanted a scantic or a tundra They are amazing workhorses.
Hey Sandy, great videos. Nice to see the sleds still running good. Have you looked into Camso tracks for the ATV? Depending on the speed and distance you are going they are incredibly versatile. Great for hauling wood.
I haven't spent too much time looking at them but like you said they sure would be a handy item to have around. Maybe I"ll keep an eye out
Love that Skandic. I had a tundra for years
Those tundras are great sleds for sure!
I always run a little injector oil in the gas also. Plugs are cheaper than pistons
Yeah rich is better than lean for sure
Hi, I actually just bought a Skandic 500 wt. It has the same Gearbox/Clutch system. But I can’t get it to idle jet… My guess is that the Belt is way to tight. As soon as it starts or try’s to start the belt already engages. I could not find any videos on these older Skandics and how to adjust the Belt because almost no other sleds have the gearbox. Any information how I can fix it is much appreciated! It just keeps dying and I can’t get into gear because the secondary clutch is always engaged… Thank you! A video on how to remove/replace the belt would be helpful aswell. The previous owner said he just replaced the belt and never drove it after that. So it could also be the wrong belt….
Hey sandy love ur stuff just got a woodland 126 got a problem with resin build up on the blade have u got a video that covers this keep up the good work
Hi Richard! I find with the resin build up a very small touch of dish soap in the water can help. There may be a video about two months back talking abotu different lubrication types. I tend to just stick to pure water mostly
Awesome, Toy Shed Brother. Great Video
Thank you!
That sled will out run its parts, already has. I'd buy every part you can now.
Hey Sandy, always great videos and appreciate the extra time you take in setting up your camera shots and additional editing.
Question : if you're looking for utilitarian usage, you might like trying tracks on ATV. We just got them for our log hauling for the Mill and they are remarkably capable. Sure they're not as quick as a sled, but they are more capable, in my non-professional opinion. For about 4k$, tracks will give you a solid contender. I'm still amazed by the power/floatation/traction they provide.
That’s great to hear. I always wondered how the tracked machines did. I think it would be something worth trying for sure if I could get a set for a decent price.
@@sawingwithsandy sell your two other sleds and you'll have a decent lump sum for a used, even possibly new set!😬😁 Especially if you're newly in love with your yellow giant, you won't feel the emotional loss as much!!😉😂 From the looks of it, you're set for winter regardless! That SWT is also my dream sled!
Keep an eye out for used as it's typically a very easy conversion to whatever machine you have, pretty much bolt on.
Sounds good!
The far rear bogies being up off the trail is a strategy to help with turning radius too, I believe.
That’s a great point
Damn that black grand touring brings back some memories for me!!,,, my aunt use to let me drive around with her grand touring every single daay she would make sure to fill it up for me as a young teen… but untill my aunties daughter’s boyfriend claimed it and broke it..
Looks like you may have a handlebar riser on the SWT. I had 2 of the 2006s and put 10,000 miles or so on them. Have a 2014 SWT 600 Etec now with close to 11,000 miles.
The SWT is a sled i would like one day as well! It would be a great step up from my 1985 Yamaha Bravo.
I'm very happy with it so far
You have nice Ski-doos. I would like to have one but I don t have job for it. Thanks for the video.
Full choke your 97 when it’s cold and it might start easier! That lever will go another 90 degrees. Just look at your carbs when you engage it and you’ll see the enrichment plunger move even further.
That’s Eric. Learned something new.
Good Job!
Is the 550 build in Finland? I have 3 440skandic lt build in Finland and I would say best snow machine ever built for trapping and narrow trails. Although would a bit tippy for average riders
Nice work fixing up the SWT. I would have liked to see the process but I realize it takes longer to film it while you work. I need to get my 2000 SWT running again. When it last started it would run for about 15 minutes and then quit. Then it wouldn't start again until after sitting for a couple of days. Not sure what would cause such an odd symptom but it was repeatable. Does anybody know if there's an online forum for owners of these beasts to share info?