Abstract: A tracked vehicle, especially a snow scooter, that has two laterally spaced-apart front drive-track assemblies (10), each of which is turnable around a substantially vertical axis and which are coupled for common turning. Each drive-track assembly is carried by a vehicle chassis (11) via a vertically movable link device, which in respect of vertical turning rests against the chassis via a spring-damper assembly (7), and the drive-track assemblies are mechanically coupled by a parallel steering mechanism (23-26), which is maneuverable by a driver of the vehicle.

Abstract: A base has wheels, including a drive wheel, for wheeling the base over a floor. A nozzle is fixed to the base for a fan in the base to draw air from the floor through the nozzle. A handle is connected to the base for propelling the base by manually applying a force to the handle. A drive assist motor, which is not configured to drive the fan, has an output shaft coupled to the drive wheel. The controller is operative in a driving mode to power the motor to rotate the drive wheel in a direction corresponding to a direction of the force applied to the handle. The controller is operative in a non-driving mode to refrain from powering the motor to rotate the drive wheel.

Abstract: A snowmobile rear suspension is shown comprised of a linear force element (LFE) positioned outside the envelope of the snowmobile endless track. The LFE is attached at one end to the frame and at the other end to a bell crank. The bell crank is operatively connected to the slide rails, and carrier rollers extend from the bell crank. When the slide rails collapse in normal operation, the bell crank strokes the LFE, and the suspension is progressive throughout the range.

Abstract: A snowmobile suspension and drive train for supporting a snowmobile chassis and guiding an endless loop type track, the snowmobile suspension and drive train comprises an endless loop type snowmobile track supported by a suspension mechanism; wherein the track is being driven and guided at a rear track position with track drive sprockets and is supported and guided at a front track position with front idler wheels, and wherein an upper portion of the track is guided and supported at an intermediate position over top track wheels. The snowmobile suspension wherein the suspension mechanism includes a diagonally extending upper frame pivotally connected at a pivot point to a horizontally oriented lower frame in scissor relationship such that the suspension can move between a raised position and a lowered position.

Abstract: A suspension system for a tracked vehicle providing a wide range of performance characteristics via a user-adjustable overload spring assembly which engages a rear suspension element. An optimum spring force can depend on the both operator characteristics and local operating conditions. A user is afforded the ability to adjust a rear suspension system to provide desired ride characteristics. A suspension system including a movable stop to define a mechanical relation between a rear suspension arm and a front suspension arm is also disclosed.

Abstract: A suspension assembly for a snowmobile is provided that rotatably supports a closed-loop track in the rear tunnel of the snowmobile and also supports both vertical and horizontal travel of said closed-loop track during suspension system travel. The suspension assembly includes at least one elongated ground contact that supports rotational travel of the closed loop track and at least one swing arm angularly disposed in the closed-loop track and having a front end portion pivotably coupled to the rear tunnel and a rear end portion coupled to the at least one ground contact. In the preferred arrangement, a front resilient member is arranged to bias against displacement between the chassis and the at least one ground contact during suspension assembly travel and a rear resilient member arranged to bias against displacement between the chassis and the swing arm during suspension assembly travel. A tensioner couples the rear end portion of the swing arm to the at least one ground contact.

Abstract: A suspension assembly for a snowmobile is provided that rotatably supports a closed-loop track in the rear tunnel of the snowmobile and also supports both vertical and horizontal travel of said closed-loop track during suspension system travel. The suspension assembly includes at least one elongated ground contact that supports rotational travel of the closed loop track and at least one swing arm angularly disposed in the closed-loop track and having a front end portion pivotably coupled to the rear tunnel and a rear end portion coupled to the at least one ground contact. In the preferred arrangement, a front resilient member is arranged to bias against displacement between the chassis and the at least one ground contact during suspension assembly travel and a rear resilient member arranged to bias against displacement between the chassis and the swing arm during suspension assembly travel. A tensioner couples the rear end portion of the swing arm to the at least one ground contact.

Abstract: A rear suspension of a snow vehicle is provided with a slide rail which guides a track belt. The slide rail is made of metal and formed by extrusion. A bent portion is provided on an end of the slide rail to extend to a tip end thereof with a position toward the end being a starting point of bending. A projection, to which one end side of a torque arm supporting a vehicle body is connected, is arranged toward the end of the slide rail so as to project upwards. The projection includes a bracket provided separately from the slide rail and the starting point of bending is positioned in a length range of the projection.

Abstract: A snowmobile is disclosed having a tunnel to accommodate and cover the drive track of the snowmobile underneath and to support the straddle seat of the snowmobile above. The tunnel includes portions interconnecting the sidewalls of the tunnel to the top portion of the tunnel and which provides clearances to fit a narrower straddle seat thereon thereby improving manoeuvrability and rider comfort. A straddle seat adapted to register with the tunnel is also disclosed.

Abstract: A suspension for a tracked vehicle providing a wide range of performance characteristics via a user-adjustable spring system within a rear suspension portion. An optimum spring force can depend on the both operator characteristics and local operating conditions. A user is afforded the ability to adjust a rear suspension system to provide desired ride characteristics. A suspension system particularly for long-tracked snowmobiles is disclosed.

Abstract: A snowmobile includes a vehicle frame, a track belt to which driving force is transferred from an engine mounted on the vehicle frame, a guide rail guiding the track belt, a frontal connecting member rotatably connected to the vehicle frame and the guide rail in a front portion of the snowmobile, a rear connecting member rotatably connected to the vehicle frame and the guide rail in a rear portion of the snowmobile, a first link member rotatably connected to the frontal connecting member, and a second link member rotatably connected to the first link member and the guide rail, and a shock absorber rotatably connected to the first link member or the second link member via a first connecting member. The first connecting member is provided above a second connecting member connecting the guide rail and the second link member.

Abstract: A suspension assembly for a vehicle having an endless drive track is disclosed. The suspension assembly has a slide frame assembly and a rail extension assembly pivotably connected to a rear portion of the slide frame assembly and pivots about a first axis. The rail extension assembly is pivotable between a raised position and a lowered position with respect to the slide frame assembly. A spring biases the rail extension assembly toward the lowered position. The magnitude of the biasing force of the spring is adjustable. The rail extension assembly can be prevented from pivoting from the lowered position to the raised position independently of the magnitude of the biasing force.

Abstract: A rail slide for a slide rail suspension system in a vehicle having an endless track, the rail slide having a sliding surface for contacting the endless track, the sliding surface containing one or more grooves aligned at an angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the rail slide and containing a low friction insert material therein.

Abstract: A frame assembly is described including a tunnel, an engine cradle disposed forward of the tunnel and connected thereto, and a sub-frame disposed forward of the engine cradle and connected thereto. A forward support assembly extends upwardly from the subframe. An upper column extends upwardly from the engine cradle to connect with the forward support assembly. A rear brace assembly extends upwardly from the tunnel to connect with the forward support assembly and the upper column. In one embodiment, the frame assembly further includes an engine disposed in the engine cradle. An endless track is operatively connected to the engine and disposed beneath the tunnel for propulsion. A pair of skis is operatively connected to a steering device for steering. In another embodiment, the frame assembly further includes an engine disposed in the engine cradle.

Abstract: A suspension system for a tracked vehicle that includes at least four suspension cylinders for suspending at least two track module frames to a chassis of the tracked vehicle to allow torsional flexing to accommodate terrain unevenness with significantly less terrain damage to provide a smoother, safer ride, with bump absorption and improved stability. The suspension cylinders can be hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders for air bags, powered jackscrews or manual jackscrews. The suspension system also includes lateral links for attaching the at least two track frame module to the chassis to allow the track module frame to move vertically, to tilt and to angle for resiliently tracking uneven surfaces. Longitudinal links for attaching each of the at least two track frame module to the chassis to keep the at least two track module frames centered within the chassis of the tracked vehicle.

Abstract: A track drive system comprises a chassis frame and a drive wheel rotatably coupled to the chassis frame. An upper idler is rotatably coupled to the chassis frame rearwardly of the drive wheel. A forward idler is rotatably coupled to the chassis frame below the drive wheel. A suspended frame is pivotally coupled to the chassis frame by upper and lower swing arms. A rear idler is rotatably coupled to a rear portion of the suspended frame at a location displaced generally downwardly from an attachment point of the upper swing arm by a rear idler offset distance. A lower idler is rotatably coupled to a forward portion of the suspended frame. A biasing means biases the suspended frame away from the chassis frame.

Abstract: A rear track suspension for a snowmobile having a single resilient element for biasing both the front and rear arms. The slide rail is permitted to pitch between first and second pitching constraints in response to terrain obstacles in a gradual manner as the motion constraints are approached. This reduces jarring of the rider when the pitching constraints are met. Suspension compression exhibits an initial falling rate motion ratio, followed by a constant rate motion ratio, followed by a rising rate motion ratio. This U-shaped motion ratio profile advantageously provides cushioning upon landing along with a resistance to bottoming out of the suspension upon full compression. The result is an improved ride without sacrificing suspension performance.

Abstract: A snowmobile track suspension is disclosed. The track suspension includes a chassis, a skid frame, a front arm, an idler arm, and a rear arm. The chassis includes a tunnel. The skid frame includes rails along which the track rides. The front arm has a forward end pivotally and slidably connected to the tunnel. The front arm also includes a rearward end pivotally connected to the rails. The idler arm includes a forward end pivotally connected to the tunnel and a rearward end connected to the rear arm. Such connection is at the upper end of the rear arm, with the lower end of the rear arm pivotally coupled to the rails.

Abstract: To enable a rider to control in real time the type of ride he desires, a snowmobile is equipped with a suspension system that includes at least one fluid actuated device which can be adjusted in real time to control the relative distance between the body of the snowmobile onto which the rider sits and the frame, or the slide tracks about which the drive belt is mounted. By setting a constant predetermined desirable distance between the body and the slide tracks, or the frame, of the snowmobile, an optimal cushioned ride for the rider is obtained. The control of the fluid actuated device(s) may be effected at any time manually by the rider, or be effected by a feedback system. The snowmobile is also equipped with an ABS system for enhancing the traction of the drive belt on snow and therefore the control of the snowmobile by the rider.

Abstract: A vehicle comprises a frame and a slide rail disposed below the frame for guiding a drive track along a road surface. An arm has a first portion pivotally coupled to the frame at a frame pivot location and a second portion pivotally coupled to the slide rail at a rail pivot location. Vertical movement of the slide rail causes a length of the arm between the frame pivot location and the rail pivot location to extend or contract. The vehicle suspension system becomes increasingly stiffer as the deflection of the slide rail increases, to contribute to a more comfortable ride and to reduce the risk of bottoming-out.

Abstract: A vehicle comprises a frame and a slide rail pivotally coupled to the frame. A spring member urges the slide rail in a direction away from the frame. The spring member has a first portion mounted to the frame and a second portion supported on the slide rail at a first spring support position in a first configuration. A spring support is coupled to the vehicle at a second spring support position and is arranged to engage the spring member upon deflection of the slide rail in a second configuration. The vehicle suspension system becomes increasingly stiffer as the deflection of the slide rail increases, to contribute to a more comfortable ride and to reduce the risk of bottoming-out.

Abstract: A snowmobile rear suspension is shown comprised of a linear force element (LFE) positioned outside the envelope of the snowmobile endless track. The LFE is attached at one end to the frame and at the other end to a bell crank. The bell crank is operatively connected to the slide rails. When the slide rails collapse in normal operation, the bell crank strokes the LFE, and the suspension is progressive throughout the range.

Abstract: A rear suspension system for a snowmobile includes a plurality of adjacent closed-loop tracks disposed in a rear tunnel of the snowmobile. Each of the plurality of adjacent closed-loop tracks are rotatably driven by a drive system. One of a plurality of independent suspension assemblies is disposed in each closed-loop track and the plurality of independent suspension assemblies articulate independently of each other during travel of the rear suspension system.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for propelling snowmobiles are disclosed. A snowmobile in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a chassis defining a tunnel, a drive shaft at least partially disposed in the tunnel, and at least one drive sprocket fixed to the drive shaft. A drive track overlays a portion of the at least one drive sprocket. A bearing is disposed within an interior of the drive track for rotatably supporting the drive shaft. The drive shaft is preferably operatively coupled to an engine by a drivetrain. In an advantageous embodiment, the drivetrain comprising a reduction mechanism that is substantially disposed within the tunnel defined by the chassis. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the reduction mechanism is disposed within a projection extending from a drive sprocket fixed to the drive shaft.

Abstract: A vehicle comprises a frame, a slide rail, and front and rear arms pivotally coupled to the frame and the slide rail. Front and rear shock absorbers are interposed between the slide rail and the frame. A linkage system is coupled with the slide rail, the front arm, and at least one shock absorber. The vehicle suspension system becomes increasingly stiffer as the deflection of the slide rail increases, to contribute to a more comfortable ride and to reduce the risk of bottoming-out.

Abstract: A snowmobile includes a quadrilateral linkage system formed between a vehicle body frame, a front torque arm assembly, a rear torque arm assembly, and an extendable member. The four-node linkage is coupled with at least one slide rail to provide for the vertical distance between the vehicle body frame and the at least one slide rail to vary. The nodes of the four-node linkage are configured to generally define a quadrilateral shape in at least fully contracted and fully expanded configurations.

Abstract: This torque compensating track drive is designed to provide track drive vehicles with an undercarriage that distributes the weight of the vehicle over the greatest possible area and also ensures that as much of the drive track is in contact with the surface as possible in all driving situations.

Abstract: A personal watercraft stand and tote device comprising a frame member, a control assembly associated with the frame member, a powertrain assembly associated with the frame member and the control assembly, a handle assembly associated with the frame member, and, a loading assembly associated with the frame member. The control assembly includes a motor and an control unit positioned within a housing. The device is capable of powered operation in a fully submerged condition, such as, for example five feet below the water.

Abstract: A vehicle comprises a frame and a slide rail disposed below the frame for guiding a drive track along a road surface. An arm has a first portion pivotally coupled to the frame at a frame pivot location and a second portion pivotally coupled to the slide rail at a rail pivot location. Vertical movement of the slide rail causes a length of the arm between the frame pivot location and the rail pivot location to extend or contract. The vehicle suspension system becomes increasingly stiffer as the deflection of the slide rail increases, to contribute to a more comfortable ride and to reduce the risk of bottoming-out.

Abstract: A vehicle comprises a frame and a slide rail pivotally coupled to the frame. A spring member urges the slide rail in a direction away from the frame. The spring member has a first portion mounted to the frame and a second portion supported on the slide rail at a first spring support position in a first configuration. A spring support is coupled to the vehicle at a second spring support position and is arranged to engage the spring member upon deflection of the slide rail in a second configuration. The vehicle suspension system becomes increasingly stiffer as the deflection of the slide rail increases, to contribute to a more comfortable ride and to reduce the risk of bottoming-out.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for propelling snowmobiles are disclosed. A snowmobile in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a chassis defining a tunnel, a drive shaft at least partially disposed in the tunnel, and at least one drive sprocket fixed to the drive shaft. A drive track overlays a portion of the at least one drive sprocket. A bearing is disposed within an interior of the drive track for rotatably supporting the drive shaft. The drive shaft is preferably operatively coupled to an engine by a drivetrain. In an advantageous embodiment, the drivetrain comprising a reduction mechanism that is substantially disposed within the tunnel defined by the chassis. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the reduction mechanism is disposed within a projection extending from a drive sprocket fixed to the drive shaft.

Abstract: A suspension system for suspending an endless track beneath a tracked vehicle chassis. The suspension system can be a fully coupled suspension, a partially coupled suspension or a non-coupled suspension. The suspension system includes at least one elongated suspension rail having a front portion, a rear portion and a bottom track-engaging portion. At least one suspension arm has an upper end adapted for pivotal connection to the vehicle chassis and a lower end pivotally connected to the suspension rail. The lower end of the suspension arm can optionally have a displacement with a non-linear component. A biasing mechanism provides a biasing force to bias the suspension rail away from the vehicle chassis. The track tensioning system coupled to the suspension arm applies a tensioning force to the endless track in response to displacement of the suspension arm. The tensioning force generates a supplemental force transmitted by the endless track that augments the biasing force of the biasing mechanism.

Abstract: A snow vehicle includes a frame having a longitudinal axis, a pair of rear suspension assemblies, a pair of front suspension assemblies, a pair of drive tracks, and a pair of ski assemblies. Each rear suspension assembly pivotally connects a drive track to a rearward portion of the frame. Each front suspension assembly pivotally connects a ski assembly to a forward portion of the frame. The rear suspension assemblies, the front suspension assemblies, the drive tracks, and the ski assemblies are symmetric about the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A swing arm for a snowmobile has an upwardly curved, stepped, or angled intermediate portion that increases the swing arm's ground clearance relative to conventional, straight swing arms. The increased ground clearance permits more snow and other elements to pass underneath the swing without contacting the swing arm.

Abstract: The present invention provides a snowmobile suspension system comprising a slide frame for engagement with an endless track, a suspension arm, a bracket arm, and a rocker arm. The suspension arm has an upper portion adapted to be pivotally mounted relative to a chassis on a snowmobile and a lower portion adapted to be pivotally mounted relative to the slide frame. The bracket arm has an end fixedly connected to the lower portion of the suspension arm. The rocker arm has an upper end pivotally connected to the other end of the bracket arm and a lower end supporting a lower end of a shock absorber, the lower end of said shock absorber being pivotally attached thereto. The upper end of the shock absorber is pivotally interconnected to the chassis. The rocker arm is constructed and arranged such that a lower end thereof is disposed beneath the lower portion of the suspension arm.

Abstract: A slide rail system of a snowmobile vehicle includes a pair of substantially parallel elongated front slide rails, each front slide rail having a forward end and a rear end, the forward end pivotally connected to a chassis or a front drive axle of the snowmobile. The system also includes a pair of substantially parallel elongated rear slide rails, each rear slide rail having a forward end pivotally connected to the rear end of each front slide rail.

Abstract: An extended movement rear suspension for a snowmobile. The suspension includes at least two elongated members of a substantially constant length coupled to the snowmobile frame and to an endless track guide rail assembly. The suspension configures the endless track into a generally triangular shape.

Abstract: A suspension system for suspending an endless track beneath a tracked vehicle chassis. The suspension system can be a fully coupled suspension, a partially coupled suspension or a non-coupled suspension. The suspension system includes at least one elongated suspension rail having a front portion, a rear portion and a bottom track-engaging portion. At least one suspension arm has an upper end adapted for pivotal connection to the vehicle chassis and a lower end pivotally connected to the suspension rail. The lower end of the suspension arm can optionally have a displacement with a non-linear component. A biasing mechanism provides a biasing force to bias the suspension rail away from the vehicle chassis. The track tensioning system coupled to the suspension arm applies a tensioning force to the endless track in response to displacement of the suspension arm. The tensioning force generates a supplemental force transmitted by the endless track that augments the biasing force of the biasing mechanism.

Abstract: Devices and methods for suspending a vehicle are disclosed. A suspension mechanism in accordance with the present invention includes a suspension arm having a first end and a second end, a swing arm having a first end pivotably coupled to the first end of the suspension arm and a second end pivotably coupled to a slide frame, a pivot arm having a first end pivotably coupled to the suspension arm proximate the second end thereof, the pivot arm further including a pivot axle and a second end, the second end of the pivot arm being pivotably coupled to the slide frame, a cradle pivotably coupled to the suspension arm between the first end and the second end thereof, an air spring having a first end seating against the cradle and a second end seating against a seating portion of the slide frame.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and an after-market, upgrade kit constructed and arranged to be installed onto an uncoupled snowmobile suspension system that, when installed, converts the suspension system into a coupled suspension system. Specifically, the upgrade kit of the present invention is configured to be installed onto the Arctic Cat® line of snowmobiles. The upgrade kit includes a pair mounting brackets that are mounted to corresponding slide rails of the suspension system, a pair of support rods that each fixedly attach to the corresponding mounting bracket, and a pair of couplers that are pivotally interconnected to the slide rails by being pivotally mounted to the support rods.

Abstract: An improved torsion type rear suspension system for a snowmobile. The suspension includes a pair of rails movable with respect to the snowmobile body and a pair of torsion springs disposed between the body and the rails for biasing the suspension toward its extended position. Also included is a cam block having a contoured cam surface which engages a leg of the torsion spring at a variable point of contact. As the suspension moves from the extended to the collapsed position, the effective length of the spring leg is reduced, resulting in a nonlinear change in spring force as a function of deflection. The cam block may be adjusted with respect to the suspension rails with an eccentric to permit additional adjustment of the spring force function to compensate for varying terrain, vehicle speed, and operator weight.

Abstract: A drive belt suspension system for a snowmobile includes an improved construction in which an excessive shock is not directly received by the snowmobile frame to ensure a smooth operation of the suspension system. The suspension system includes a suspension arm arranged to suspend a slide rail assembly from a frame assembly of the snowmobile body. The suspension arm has a sleeve connected to the slide rail assembly for pivotal movement about a lower axis and a rod connected to the frame assembly for pivotal movement about an upper axis. The rod is supported by the sleeve and has a pair of stoppers that interpose the sleeve therebetween. The lower axis is positioned between the respective stoppers in a direction parallel to a longitudinal dimension of the drive belt suspension system.

Abstract: A suspension system for a vehicle, having at least first and second shock absorbers. The first shock absorber has a first main piston, and the second shock absorber has a second main piston. The shock absorbers are motively linked such that when the first main piston retracts, the second main piston is also caused to retract. The first and second shock absorbers may be hydraulic shock absorbers, wherein the first shock absorber defines a first hydraulic chamber therein, and the second shock absorber defines a second hydraulic chamber therein, the first and second hydraulic chambers being connected with a hydraulic line, so that causing the first main piston to retract reduces the size of the first hydraulic chamber, which increases the size of the second hydraulic chamber, which then causes the second main piston to retract. The suspension system may include an adjustor for convenient adjusting of the suspension system.

Abstract: To enable a rider to control in real time the type of ride he desires, a snowmobile is equipped with a suspension system that includes at least one fluid actuated device which can be adjusted in real time to control the relative distance between the body of the snowmobile onto which the rider sits and the frame, or the slide tracks about which the drive belt is mounted. By setting a constant predetermined desirable distance between the body and the slide tracks, or the frame, of the snowmobile, an optimal cushioned ride for the rider is obtained. The control of the fluid actuated device(s) may be effected at any time manually by the rider, or be effected by a feedback system. The snowmobile is also equipped with an ABS system for enhancing the traction of the drive belt on snow and therefore the control of the snowmobile by the rider.

Abstract: A snowmobile suspension that provides a substantially constant motion-ration (i.e. reduced falling rate) over the entire suspension stroke of the suspension system. The suspension system includes a suspension assembly that includes a lower arm assembly, a suspension arm, and a shock absorber. The lower arm assembly pivotally interconnects the lower portion of the suspension arm and the lower end of the shock absorber to the slide frame at a location relative to the chassis and within the endless track. The upper portion of the suspension arm and the upper end of the shock absorber pivot independently from each other, and the upper portion of the suspension arm is positioned lower and forward of the upper end of the shock absorber. The upper end of the shock absorber is positioned relative to the chassis and within the endless track.

Abstract: A motor driven or pedal powered snow vehicle designed to emulate the steering and balancing characteristics of motorcycles and bicycles. The snow vehicle includes a frame, a swing arm, a track carriage, an endless loop track, a snow compacting ramp, an elongated steering member and a ski. The swing arm pivots upon the frame and angles downward behind the frame. The track circulates a fixed path around the track carriage. The track carriage extends forward from a pivot connection with the rear of the swing arm, and pivots vertically under the swing arm in scissors-fashion. The snow vehicle is suspended upon the track carriage using a single shock absorber and load-distributing bell crank. A snow compacting ramp attached to the track carriage compresses the snow ahead of the track. The steering member is like the front suspension fork of a motorcycle or bicycle, and is connected to the frame so that it rotates about a steering axis. The ski is mounted to the lower portion of the steering member.

Abstract: Devices and methods for suspending a vehicle are disclosed. A suspension mechanism in accordance with the present invention includes a suspension arm having a first end and a second end, a swing arm having a first end pivotably coupled to the first end of the suspension arm and a second end pivotably coupled to a slide frame, a pivot arm having a first end pivotably coupled to the suspension arm proximate the second end thereof, the pivot arm further including a pivot axle and a second end, the second end of the pivot arm being pivotably coupled to the slide frame, a cradle pivotably coupled to the suspension arm between the first end and the second end thereof, an air spring having a first end seating against the cradle and a second end seating against a seating portion of the slide frame.

Abstract: A cambered surfaced tensioning block is provided that is used in conjunction with the rear suspension of a typical snowmobile when sufficient lateral force is applied. The tensioning block fits within an open ended block housing which is attached to the slide rail components of the rear suspension in a position that is just rearward of the point at which the spring arms are attached. The upper surface of the tensioning block is formed in a curve in a manner so that the radius of that curve lessens as you move rearward thus, creating a cambered surface. The cambered upper surface of the tensioning block is utilized to move the load point of the suspension spring arm closer to the point of force application as the lateral force applied to the suspension increases. Therefore, the use of the present invention provides a rear suspension spring characteristic that grows increasingly stiff as more and more lateral force is applied to it.

Abstract: An improved snow vehicle track suspension employing a force-distributing mechanism comprising a swingarm, a three-arm bell crank, a connecting linkage, and a telescoping limiter linkage. The force-distributing mechanism apportions cushioning force from a shock absorber to track carriage components that bear upon a lower run of an endless-loop track to establish a desired weighting distribution of the track upon the surface of the snow. The force-distributing mechanism allows the track carriage to incline and decline within a limited angular range to enable the track to maintain tractional compliance with the surface of the snow.

Abstract: In a snowmobile track suspension, the slide frame is supported upon downwardly and rearwardly angled front and rear suspension arm assemblies. The suspension arm assemblies are of similar construction, length, and orientation, having upper ends connected to fixed pivots in the snowmobile chassis and lower ends pivoted to the slide frame. The lower end of the rear suspension arm assembly has a pivot mount that is movable longitudinally of the slide frame. Movement in the forwards direction being blocked by an abutment which ensures that during suspension travel the front end of the slide frame cannot move higher than the rear end thereof.