I really wanted to bring life back into something that brought me so many memories. I wanted to re-build it to its former glory as if it was coming from the dealer floor.
This project began with a touch of nostalgia. The first sled I can remember riding and driving was a Jag that my father owned. I have always had a sweet spot for it as it is where my interest in the sport likely began. I wanted to resurrect one that was like the one I had rode as a child as my wife and I were expecting our first child. To be corny….it boiled down a legacy.
Nothing to creative, other than I wanted to make it look like factory showroom. It was a challenge to find reproduction items like decals and what not that were just as good as the originals, but in the end the ones that were sourced were excellent.
I think the thing I am most proud of is that I am merely an amateur mechanic. While there were some bugs to still work out after re-assembly, I could step back and say “I did that”. The reactions from people who knew the sled prior to the restoration were priceless. Additionally, I know have a piece of history that I can use to share with my two boys and hopefully foster their love of the sport.
Realistically its just an old Jag. They are a dime a dozen, but this one has my sweat equity in it. It is satisfying to hear others say how great it looks. Since completion I have had other approach me saying “you know I have another one for you in my barn when you want it”.
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5 Comments
Very impressive. Looks great.
Nice! I remember being a kid back in the day and watching those Jags go by on the trail that ran by our house – always loved those machines!
Fantastic job. I am working on the same sled, same year. How did you get the great gloss shine to the hood. Mine was so flat and grey looking. I have used rubbing compound and it looks ok, yours looks new! I have new decals coming, hope it looks almost as good as yours when done. Great Job. Gregg
Where did you get hood decals
I bought them from a seller on E bay.