Does your snowmobile feel a little… ordinary? Maybe you’re tired of being left in the dust on the trail, or perhaps you dream of conquering deeper powder with more confidence. Choosing the right snowmobile upgrades can feel like a blizzard of confusing options. You want to make your ride better, but with so many parts and accessories out there, where do you even start? It’s easy to get overwhelmed and wonder if you’re spending your hard-earned money on the right things.
But what if there was a way to cut through the noise? This guide is here to help! We’ll break down the most popular and impactful snowmobile upgrades. You’ll learn what makes a big difference and how to pick the perfect parts to match your riding style. Get ready to discover how to transform your machine into a trail-blazing powerhouse, making every snowy adventure more thrilling and enjoyable.
Our Top 5 Snowmobile Upgrades Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Snowmobile Upgrades Detailed Reviews
1. KASTFORCE Snowmobile Dolly Set Max Supporting 1500Lbs with Heavy Duty Straps Firmly Attaching on Skis KF2011
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of struggling to move your snowmobile or snowplow around your garage or shed? The KASTFORCE Snowmobile Dolly Set KF2011 is here to make your life easier. This robust set is designed to support up to 1500 pounds, letting you effortlessly shift your winter gear from your driveway to its storage spot. Its clever design ensures your snowmobile stays secure while you maneuver it with ease.
What We Like:
- It helps you move snowmobiles and snowplows easily from your driveway to storage.
- The 2-inch PVC swivel casters make a 360-degree turn simple.
- It comes with two strong, adjustable nylon tie-down straps to keep things secure.
- The set includes two 8-inch by 10-inch steel dollies that fit perfectly under your skis.
- A 7-inch by 7-inch dolly is included for the rear track, providing complete support.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dollies might be a bit bulky for very tight spaces.
- Users with very heavy, custom snowmobiles might want to double-check the weight limit.
Overall, the KASTFORCE Snowmobile Dolly Set KF2011 offers a practical and effective solution for storing your snowmobiles. It’s a solid investment for anyone who needs to move their winter vehicles around with minimal effort.
2. Moonoom 17.5ft Heavy-Duty Tow Strap with Two Hooks
Rating: 9.4/10
When you’re out enjoying the snow on your snowmobile, ATV, or sled, getting stuck is never fun. The Moonoom Heavy-Duty Tow Strap is designed to get you out of tough spots. This strap is built tough and is ready for your winter adventures. It’s like having a helping hand when you need it most.
What We Like:
- Strong and Reliable: It has a 400 KG load-bearing strength, so it can handle pulling heavy snowmobiles or sleds.
- Versatile: The strap is about 11.8ft (3.6M) for snowmobiles and 9.8ft (3M) for general towing, giving you options.
- Easy to Use: It comes with two hooks that securely attach to vehicles, making towing or rescuing simple.
- Built for Emergencies: The triple reinforced protective loop works well with winches, so you won’t get stranded.
- Essential Safety Gear: This strap is a must-have for anyone who snowmobiles, sleds, or skis.
- Portable: It’s tough but easy to carry in a bag, so you can take it anywhere.
- Great Gift Idea: It’s a thoughtful gift for friends and family who love winter sports.
What Could Be Improved:
- Break Strength Limit: While 400kg is good for many situations, it might not be enough for extremely heavy vehicles.
- Length Variation: The specific lengths for snowmobile and general towing might not be ideal for all towing scenarios.
The Moonoom tow strap offers peace of mind for your winter outings. It’s a practical tool that helps you stay safe and get moving again when things go wrong.
3. Upgraded Snowmobile Bumper Hitch Bumper Tow Hitch Fits for Ski Doo/Polaris/REV/Arctic Cat/Yamaha
Rating: 9.3/10
Planning to haul a sled or other gear behind your snowmobile? The Upgraded Snowmobile Bumper Hitch Bumper Tow Hitch offers a versatile solution for a wide range of snowmobile brands. This tongue-type accessory is designed to connect your trailer or sled securely, making your winter adventures easier to manage.
What We Like:
- Broad Compatibility: This hitch fits many popular snowmobile brands like Ski Doo, Polaris, REV, Arctic Cat, and Yamaha.
- Adjustable Fit: The size can be changed from 0.8 to 1.42 inches, so it works with different bumper sizes.
- Tough and Reliable: Made from strong steel, it’s built to last and has a powder-coated finish to prevent rust, even in wet and snowy conditions.
- Simple to Install: The hitch is designed for an easy installation process, and its tab feature makes it quick to put on and take off.
What Could Be Improved:
- Potential for Drilling: A warm reminder notes that you might need to drill holes. It’s important to measure and adjust before drilling to avoid mistakes.
Overall, this upgraded snowmobile hitch is a sturdy and adaptable choice for many riders. Its robust construction and adjustable design make it a practical addition for anyone needing to tow with their snowmobile.
4. Fuel Gauge Cap Gas Gauge for Arctic Cat Snowmobile Z 370 440 570 ZL ZR 500 550 600 800 900 M6 M8 M1000 Mountain Cat Firecat Sabercat Crossfire King Cat CFR
Rating: 9.0/10
Keep your Arctic Cat snowmobile running smoothly with this reliable Fuel Gauge Cap Gas Gauge. This essential part helps you accurately track your fuel levels, ensuring you’re always ready for your next adventure on the snow. It’s designed to fit a wide range of Arctic Cat models, from the Z 370 to the powerful M8 and Crossfire series.
What We Like:
- Exact fit and accurate readings: The gauge has an exact structure, and the float moves precisely to show your fuel level correctly.
- Durable and leak-proof: It features an upgraded seal that resists aging and corrosion, preventing leaks and ensuring it lasts a long time.
- Wide compatibility: This gauge is made to fit many popular Arctic Cat snowmobile models, including the CFR, Crossfire, Firecat, King Cat, M series, Mountain Cat, Panther, Sabercat, Z, ZL, ZR, and ZRT.
- Includes necessary parts: The package comes with the fuel gauge assembly and a seal, so you have everything you need for installation.
- Good customer support: JAVIK offers 24-hour customer service and a 1-year warranty, giving you peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific model exceptions: Some models have specific exceptions (e.g., “Except Touring Edition” or “Except Sno Pro Edition”), so double-check your snowmobile’s exact build to ensure compatibility.
This fuel gauge is a solid replacement part that should keep your Arctic Cat snowmobile’s fuel system in good working order. Its robust design and extensive fitment make it a practical choice for many riders.
5. KAVIUS Ice Scratchers Snowmobile 2024 UPGRADE 2PCS Set Compatible with Skidoo Polaris Arctic Cat Cable Ice Scratchers Fit for Reverse & Non-reverse Gear Equipped Snowmobiles Track Heights Above 2-1/2″
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your snowmobile for the 2024 season with the KAVIUS Ice Scratchers 2-Piece Set! These scratchers are designed to keep your snowmobile running cool and smooth, no matter the conditions. They are built tough and made to fit most snowmobiles, making them a great addition to your ride.
What We Like:
- Universal Fit: These scratchers work with many popular snowmobile brands like Polaris, Arctic Cat, and Ski-Doo. They fit snowmobiles with track heights over 2-1/2 inches, whether they have reverse gear or not.
- 2024 Upgraded Quality: Made with strong galvanized wire rope, these scratchers resist wear and moisture. They have sharp carbide tips that effectively move snow. The hardened steel ends and improved mounting hardware ensure a secure fit.
- Easy Bolt-On Installation: The scratchers come already put together. You just need one bolt to attach them. All the parts you need are included. You can even flip them up onto the track when you’re not using them.
- Protects Your Snowmobile: By kicking up snow, these scratchers help prevent your snowmobile’s engine from overheating. This means your engine lasts longer. They also reduce wear on your track, saving you money. Plus, they help groom the trails for a better ride for everyone.
- Buy With Confidence: KAVIUS offers a 12-month warranty. If you have any questions, they’re ready to help you out quickly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description mentions “track heights above 2-1/2 inches,” but doesn’t specify an upper limit. It would be helpful to know the maximum track height they can accommodate.
- While the installation is described as easy, a simple diagram or a link to an installation video would be a nice addition for those who prefer visual guides.
The KAVIUS Ice Scratchers are a smart investment for any snowmobile rider. They offer excellent protection and performance for your machine.
Level Up Your Ride: A Snowmobile Upgrade Buying Guide
Ready to make your snowmobile even more awesome? Upgrading your machine can make your rides smoother, faster, and more fun. This guide will help you pick the best upgrades.
What to Look For: Key Features of Snowmobile Upgrades
When you shop for snowmobile upgrades, keep these important features in mind:
- Performance Boost: Do you want more speed or better handling? Look for parts that increase horsepower or improve how your snowmobile steers.
- Comfort and Convenience: Long rides can be tough. Upgrades like better seats, heated grips, or storage solutions make your time on the snow more enjoyable.
- Durability and Protection: Snowmobiling can be rough. Parts that protect your machine from damage or are made from strong materials will last longer.
- Aesthetics: Sometimes, you just want your snowmobile to look cool! Custom graphics or new body panels can give your ride a fresh look.
Important Materials for Your Upgrades
The stuff your upgrades are made of matters a lot.
- Aluminum: This is a light but strong metal. You’ll find it in exhaust systems and suspension parts.
- Steel: Stronger than aluminum, steel is used for parts that need to be really tough, like bumpers or chassis components.
- Carbon Fiber: This is super light and super strong. It’s often used in high-performance parts where every ounce counts.
- High-Density Plastics: These are durable and can be molded into complex shapes. They’re good for things like storage boxes or fairings.
What Makes an Upgrade Great (or Not So Great)?
Some things make an upgrade worth your money, while others don’t.
- Quality of Craftsmanship: How well is the part made? Clean welds and smooth finishes usually mean a high-quality product.
- Fit and Finish: Does the upgrade fit your snowmobile perfectly? A good fit means it will work as intended and look good.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making great snowmobile parts. Researching brands helps you find reliable upgrades.
- Ease of Installation: Some upgrades are easy to put on yourself. Others might need a mechanic. Think about how much work it will take.
- Compatibility: Make sure the upgrade is made for your specific snowmobile model and year. A part that doesn’t fit won’t work.
Things that reduce quality often include poor materials, sloppy manufacturing, or parts that don’t fit quite right. These can break easily or not perform as expected.
How You’ll Use It: User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you ride your snowmobile. This will help you choose the right upgrades.
- Trail Riding: If you spend most of your time on groomed trails, upgrades that improve comfort, like a better seat or windshield, are great. You might also want better suspension for a smoother ride.
- Deep Snow Riding (Backcountry): If you love riding in fresh powder, you’ll want upgrades that help your snowmobile float better. A wider track or lighter parts can make a big difference. Engine performance upgrades also help you climb hills.
- Mountain Riding: For steep climbs and technical terrain, you need a snowmobile that’s both powerful and agile. Lighter components and improved engine tuning are key.
- Long-Distance Touring: If you ride for many hours at a time, comfort is king. Heated seats, hand warmers, and good storage for gear are essential.
A good upgrade should make your riding experience better, whether that means going faster, feeling more comfortable, or having more control.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Snowmobile Upgrades
Q: What are the most popular snowmobile upgrades?
A: Popular upgrades include better seats, improved suspension, performance exhaust systems, and upgraded tracks. Many riders also add heated grips and storage solutions.
Q: Can I install upgrades myself?
A: Some upgrades, like hand warmers or a new windshield, are easy to install. Others, like engine tuning or suspension changes, might require special tools or knowledge, and it’s often best to have a professional do them.
Q: Will upgrades void my snowmobile’s warranty?
A: It depends on the upgrade and your warranty. Simple bolt-on parts usually don’t. Major engine or drivetrain modifications might.
Q: How much do snowmobile upgrades cost?
A: Prices vary a lot. Simple upgrades can cost less than $100, while major performance kits can cost thousands of dollars.
Q: What’s the best upgrade for more speed?
A: For more speed, consider a performance exhaust system, an air intake upgrade, and engine tuning. A lighter or wider track can also help.
Q: How do I choose the right track for my snowmobile?
A: The best track depends on where you ride. Longer, wider tracks with taller lugs are good for deep snow. Shorter, stiffer tracks are better for groomed trails.
Q: Are aftermarket parts as good as OEM parts?
A: Many aftermarket parts are excellent and can even be better than original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. It’s important to research brands and read reviews.
Q: What’s the most important safety upgrade?
A: While not always considered an “upgrade,” ensuring your brakes are in top condition and adding reflective tape for visibility are crucial safety measures.
Q: Can I make my snowmobile quieter?
A: Yes, some aftermarket mufflers are designed to reduce noise compared to stock or performance exhausts.
Q: What’s a good first upgrade for a new rider?
A: For a new rider, comfort upgrades like heated grips or a better seat, or a slightly taller windshield for wind protection, are excellent first choices.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.