Do you think a snowmobile would be fun to own, but you can’t justify the price? Are you looking for an off-road vehicle that can easily fit in your SUV or truck? Then a Snowdog may be just what you need. Snowdog’s motor tows can pull you along ice, snow and even bare ground, getting to places out of reach to ATVs and snowmobiles. Add some sleds, and you can bring a friend and some extra cargo.
What is a Snowdog?
This vehicle is classified as a motor tow. In principle, it’s the same idea as a wide area walk-behind mower. If you eliminate the seating position from a machine, you can make it lighter and cheaper without compromising performance. A Snowdog is just an engine, transmission, frame and track. However, it delivers the same snow and ice performance as a full snowmobile at a fraction of the cost. It can also be used on dry ground, opening it up to use year-round.
A Snowdog has a steel frame that surrounds the engine and provides a place for cargo. A removable vinyl cover shields the top half of the frame and helps deflect snow away from the operator. The Snowdog’s three-position handlebar adjusts for riders of different heights. Operators can be pulled along while they’re wearing skis, or they can attach a trailer to ride behind their motor tow.
Power
All Snowdogs are powered by a 13.5 HP single cylinder Briggs & Stratton engine. An electric starter comes standard, so you don’t have to worry about trying to pull start the motor in cold weather. On average, this engine uses a half-gallon of fuel per hour.
The engine and CVT are mounted on top of the frame platform, making them easy to access for maintenance. A chain final drive connects the CVT to a single track. Top speed is 20 MPH. Like a snowmobile, the Snowdog has an engine shut off switch attached to a wrist strap. If the operator falls, the engine shuts off immediately.
Models
Compact B13ME
At 50 x 24 x 30 inches, this model is small enough to fit in a car trunk. Weighing in at just under 270 lbs, it’s easy to drive it up a ramp into the bed of a truck. It can tow up to 330 lbs. on dry ground, and up to 550 lbs. on snow.
Standard B13ME
An 8-inch longer frame makes the Standard 30 lbs. heavier than the Compact. The added track length lets the Standard tow up to 660 lbs. on dry land. When operating on snow, it can tow up to 1,100 lbs.
Standard B13MER
This motor tow comes with a reverse gear, making it easy to maneuver in tight quarters. Otherwise, it’s identical to the B13ME.
Trailers and Accessories
As long as you wear skis and operate on snow, a Snowdog can be used on its own. While you’re experiencing the joys of cross-country skiing without the physical effort, you can also smooth out the trail for other skiers with the ski trail groomer. There’s also a groomer made specifically for snow on fat bike trails.
Want to skip the skis? You have several options. The sled is designed to slide on ice and snow while limiting drift. It has hitches on the front and rear, so several sleds can be towed to increase cargo space. A swiveling seat can be added to carry one passenger, or a fixed wooden chair can be used for one seated passenger as well as a grab handle for a second standing passenger.
Snowdog’s two-wheel trailers work on all surfaces. The cargo semi-trailer has a padded seat and a luggage compartment. The Sport semi-trailer just has a small footplate for the operator to stand on. It has a hitch to attach a sled, adding passenger and cargo space.
The slider suspension replaces the spring trolleys inside the track, improving deep snow traction. Skates can be added to sleds for better ice traction.
For cold weather, handlebar mitts can be added to insulate the driver’s hands. The handlebar bag adds more storage space, and its clear sleeve is perfect for mounting a GPS device.
Warranty
The engine is guaranteed by Briggs & Stratton for one year of residential use. The protective cover, CVT components, battery, and headlight are covered for 30 days. The wiring harness and control cables are covered for 90 days. Everything else on the Snowdog is guaranteed for 12 months by the manufacturer.
No Matter the Season, We Have You Covered
Shank’s Lawn Equipment has the outdoor equipment you need for work or play. We carry several snowblower brands, as well as fun outdoor toys like the Snowdog line of motor tows. If you’re looking to buy a Snowdog, or you need parts or service, come visit us. Our shop is located at 4900 Molly Pitcher Blvd. in Chambersburg, PA. We can also ship parts and accessories to your door, whether you live in the United States or Canada. To order, visit us online at www.shankslawn.com.