Article

Snowmobile Tool Kit Must Haves

Updated on: December 9th, 2020

Snowmobiling is an exhilarating wintertime activity that can be fun for anyone, whether you’re going hard to catch some hang time or simply meandering down scenic trails. Because it can often take you far away from civilization, having a few emergency supplies on hand can often mean the difference between riding out, and being towed out… often at your expense. So whether you’re going on a solo ride, or heading out with friends, take some time to put together a toolkit!

Here’s a list of the essential items that all snowmobilers should have on hand:

For Your Sled

Spare spark plugs

Mount the wheel chock to the deck of your truck bed or trailer. You may want to consider using quick nuts if you tend to move a lot of equipment since they create a permanent threaded hole that you can reuse.

Spark plug tool

In order to properly remove and replace plugs without stripping them, you’ll need a spark plug tool. Keep one handy at all times!

Small socket wrench set

A small socket wrench set is going to be an invaluable tool for a number of simple repairs and maintenance items.

Slotted and Philips screwdriver

For everything your wrench set can’t address, slotted and Philips screwdrivers can. From replacing studs to making ski adjustments, you’ll need both varieties of screwdriver to accomplish a range of simple tasks.

Electrical or duct tape

Some resilient tape can be a great way to make a quick fix in a pinch! Tape up loose or exposed wiring or mend a small crack in your grips with a swift but sturdy tape job.

Tow rope

If your snowmobile takes a dive far from home, you’re going to need a tow to get back to basecamp. A heavy-duty tow rope with loop ends will allow a friend to safely tow your rig back to where you can make repairs.

Emergency starter rope

If your recoil starter pull cord fails you out on the trails, it’ll be a long walk back to camp or, at the very least, an uncomfortable wait for someone to come and get you! Pack an emergency starter rope at all times, so that if the worst happens, you can make the switch and get back to riding.

Vise grips

Removing your snowmobile’s sliders or replacing your recoil rope is made easy with vise grips, which makes them an essential tool to have out on the trail.

Siphon hose

Out of gas? A hose is going to be essential to help you borrow some fuel from another sled so that you can make it to a fill-up point safely.

Baling wire

Like duct tape and WD40, baling wire is considered a core “fix-it” item. If you’re in the position to make an ad-hoc repair, chances are baling wire will be one of your go-to materials.

Spare belt

Nothing sidelines a snowmobile like a damaged or broken belt. To get back on the trail and back to the excitement, stock a replacement belt for your make and model.

Zip ties

Another basic repair item that can be used in a pinch, zip ties can provide a temporary solution to just about any problem! These ties are strong enough to stand up to some hearty wear and tear and easy enough to quickly apply.

Small container

The last thing you want is to lose screws in snow as your light is dwindling. A small cup or lipped container will keep parts easy visible at all times.

For You

Preparing for a snowmobile breakdown is great, but preparing yourself for the wait and the emergency repairs is even better. Here is a checklist of the basic emergency items that will keep you warm and connected so you can get help and wait comfortably until it arrives: