2nd Smitty Sled Build

[jbird68]

I built a Smitty Sled years ago and it worked great. But I had issues with it dragging on the snow and ice when trying to change directions. So I went and built a new sled that uses 2 sets of skis where the front skis would turn and help steer the sled. It is a rough build and I still plan on paining it. But I gave it a trial run and it seems to work pretty well. The only thing I think I will had is a stiffener board across the front of the plywood so the weight of my sled doesn't cause it to flex and rub on my cross member and a couple bungees connecting teh front ski supports to the rear ski supports so it doesn't over steer and tracks a little straighter.

 

I made a video and posted it to youtube.

 

Smitty Sled #2

Edited November 20, 2018 by jbird68

[jgrimmz]

Nice build! Are you using a simple caster as the turning assembly? How do you mount the skiis? I've drilled up from the bottom but have always wondered if there is a mounting style with less drag

[jbird68]

Brackets mounted to the skis are countersunk for a 1/4-20 flat head cap screw. The turning assembly is just a 5/8" bolt. I found some PVC flanges at the local hardwae store that had a nice slip fit over the bolt. I have one in the cross board and one in the plywood with a washer in between. I can take more photos to show the detail.

[eyeguy 54]

sure looks nice.  I glued some cut offs to my scout last year. really like it so far. 

[jbird68]

Did you have any problem with the cutoff end of the skis? Unprotected wood getting wet? 

[eyeguy 54]

no prob

[jbird68]

slapped some paint on the sled last night. 

[eyeguy 54]

what kind of K2's?  I skied on 810 Comps many years ago. Heavy ski but ran sweet. 

 

[jbird68]

I know nothing about the types of skis. I got the K2 skis for free from a guy on facebook. I got the front skis at a church sale for $3. They are kids skis. Also got a pair of cross country skis. My sons wants to make a smaller shed for the accessory sled he pulls. 

[slammer]

Nice work.   Im guessing that thing glides pretty easy.   

[GrahamD]

Brilliant design. That should move smoothly on turns.

[jbird68]

haven't had a chance to really try it out yet. But we just got 9 inches of snow today. 

[Lednert Hurman]

On 11/20/2018 at 9:26 PM, jbird68 said:

I built a Smitty Sled years ago and it worked great. But I had issues with it dragging on the snow and ice when trying to change directions. So I went and built a new sled that uses 2 sets of skis where the front skis would turn and help steer the sled. It is a rough build and I still plan on paining it. But I gave it a trial run and it seems to work pretty well. The only thing I think I will had is a stiffener board across the front of the plywood so the weight of my sled doesn't cause it to flex and rub on my cross member and a couple bungees connecting teh front ski supports to the rear ski supports so it doesn't over steer and tracks a little straighter.

 

I made a video and posted it to youtube.

 

Smitty Sled #2

 

 

It looks awesome... :)