Abstract: A steering post for a snowmobile is positionable in more than one position and includes a bearing which has a two part bearing block and a two part bearing. The bearing includes a generally spherical body with axially aligned oppositely extending cylindrical extensions and a bore substantially the same diameter as the steering post axially aligned with and extending through the spherical body and extensions. The bearing body includes openings axially aligned and communicating with a cavity adapted to receive the spherical body therein. The openings include an encircling chamfered area engagable by the extensions on the spherical body such that when the steering post is out of alignment that it does not engage the bearing body and bind.

Abstract: An improved spindle arrangement for a suspension system for supporting skis of a snowmobile induces a steering bias in each of the respective skis. A spindle is attached to respective upper and lower linkages of unequal dimensions by ball joints. The ball joints attached at each respective spindle are offset from the longitudinal axis of the spindle in a manner such that a bias is induced in each respective ski causing it to toe-out. Accordingly, the bias induced in the skis creates a situation wherein the snowmobile will give the rider much more confidence and a more comfortable ride when operating the snowmobile at high speed by eliminating the disconcerting feeling that can be generated when the skis tend to toe-in.

Abstract: A suspension/traction unit for a snowmobile is disclosed as having an area of primary support and a two stage angle of attack. The traction unit includes a drive sprocket rotatably mounted to the snowmobile chassis a predetermined height above ground level when the snowmobile is at rest. An endless belt is guided by slide rails such that a low primary angle of attack of about 6 degrees is presented as well as a secondary angle of attack steeper than the primary angle attack making it possible for the snowmobile to effectively start and move in deep snow.

Abstract: A suspension system for the skis of a snowmobile controls the movement of a projected steering point associated with each ski such that the steering points move substantially parallel to a vertical plane containing the longitudinal axis of the snowmobile during deflection of the suspension system. The linkage for each ski includes a spindle arrangement, the chassis, an upper suspension linkage, and a lower suspension linkage.

Abstract: An air intake noise suppressor for a snowmobile engine disposed on the intake side of a carburetor has an enclosure with a front face having apertures therein connected to the carburetor and a rear face canted relative to the front face. The rear face has an integrally formed frustoconical extension for permitting air to flow into the enclosure. The frustoconical extension extends into the enclosure and the enclosure has a irregular bottom wall providing additional reflective surfaces inside the enclosure. Sound emanating from the carburetor enters the enclosure through the apertures and is reflected and entrapped therein unit it is attenuated. The small amount of sound that may escape the enclosure through the frustoconical extension is either attenuated in a juxtaposed enclosure formed by a shroud or directed through louvers down and away to either side of the driver.