Snowmobile transmissions

[Pastern]

Hey everyone. Me and a couple of friends are taking on a pretty big project on our hands. We are looking to repower a snowmobile with a different motor. We are thinking a street bike motor but not sure yet. However we come into trouble with the transmission/gearbox. Asking for some help do you think a regular cvt will be able to handle the motor, would I have to get or build a better one, or run the gearbox from the street bike it’s self. Thank you guys

 

[Macheater]

Sounds like you and your buds are getting into a big project with very few upsides, except to say you did it.

Putting a different engine in a sled presents all kinds of challenges. And to some extent, it was already done with the RX-1 back in 2003. The only 2 engines that I could see being worthwhile for a project such as this would be a Busa or ZX-14.

There's also many good reasons why the cvt clutch has been the main transmission in sleds for over 50 years. And yes, they can easily handle some serious hp with some upgrades. The drag on a moving sled is one of the biggest reasons that a manual trans wouldn't work well.

If you still want to take on the challenge, it can certainly be done. You're going to need some good fab equipment and personnel. Many if not all, parts will need to be custom made.

Be prepared for alot of trial n error.

Good luck!

 

[Macheater]

I almost forgot to mention, the power being put to the cvt really isn't the problem. It's slowing the clutch down to a reasonable speed to allow belts to last and be reasonably efficient. Most 4 stroke bike engines turn too many rpm. That's why Yammi put a reduction system on the RX-1 and Apex's.