1978 Polaris RXL

What was your intended objective when you started the build?

To build an entry level grass drag sled.

What motivated you to start your project?

I fell in love with the IFS RXLs in the 90s when I opened a Polaris repair manual and saw a drawing of one. Since then, the internet opened my eyes to them even more. The sleek lines and beauty of vintage styling. I knew I would never find an original RXL for a decent price, I decided to build a clone out of a 1980 Polaris TXL Indy

What was the most unique and creative thing you did to the sled?

Had to change the steering and seating geometry. I’m 6’4″ and an original RXL is tiny, so to make it look true to the original the seat was moved back, the hood moved forward, and the steering post tilted about 25 degrees forward.

What are you most proud of?

The connections and friends I made along the way collecting NOS and repop parts.

What do other people say about your snowmobile?

I get a lot of high 5s and “That’s so cool” from kids, which really makes me hope for the future! If they can identify a nice looking piece of old iron, then hopefully the future designers can resurrect good styling.

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Submitted by: Bryan S

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Specifics

Classification: Mild

Make, Model & Year: 1978 Polaris RXL

Engine: EC34PL-05 1980 TXL Indy 340 liquid cooled

Intake: Stock 38MM Mikuni carbs.

Exhaust: Stock TXL-Indy tuned pipe, sandblasted and repainted.

Drivetrain: Updated medium bore P85 open faced primary, secondary from an XLT, 144 chisel point studs.

Tunnel/Chassis Modifications: Running board coolers removed, front radiator added, stock belly pan removed and aluminum plate added – which supports the hood. Trailing arm mounts pushed 1″ out to clear the hood. Original 1978 seat installed. Repop fuel tank installed.

Suspension: Completely stock/original to the 1980 TXL Indy

Brakes: Installed aftermarket master cylinder (Original was frozen).

Finish – Paint: Entire chassis stripped and sand blasted from blue to bare aluminum. Spar Polyurethane applied to protect from corrosion. Hood came painted midnight blue, added repop decals.