1964 Polaris Super Pacer Prototype clone

What was your intended objective when you started the build?

We have a Vintage Snowmobile club in town, and 2020 marked a 10 yr anniversary, 60 mile trail ride we do. My mission was to build this sled and to make it the complete 60 miles!

What motivated you to start your project?

Learning that my cousin, who owns the original prototype that David Johnson himself (founder of Polaris and creater of the first Polaris snowmobile) raced in Beausejour, Manitoba in the early 60’s.
When I found out he had it for over the last 30-40 yrs, I went to see it and wanted to buy it in the worst way, but being a stubborn Ukranian like he is, declined any offer I put on the table.
I just couldn’t get that sled out of my head. I have a serious addiction to early rear engine Polaris snowmobiles, so that was one that I needed to have..
I gave him a few months to think about my offer, but still declining it, I decided we’ll if I can’t have that one, then I’ll just build my own!

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

Well I designed and built the entire thing from an idea and several pictures of the original sled.

What are you most proud of?

That I was able to put the ideas in my head and turn it into something, and that it actually worked!

What do other people say about your snowmobile?

Everyone gave me lots of positive motivation and inspiration! I think it impressed a lot of people

One Comment

anonymous says:

January 10, 2026 at 9:13 pm

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Submitted by: Jason Y

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Specifics

Classification: Wild

Make, Model & Year: Polaris Super Pacer Prototype clone 1964

Fondly known as: Super pacer prototype

Time spent: 500-600

Snowmobile cost: 5500-6000

Money spent: 5500-6000

Engine: Kohler Command Pro, 35 Hp, 1000CC

Intake: Naturally aspirated 2 barrel carburetor

Exhaust: Factory exhaust that came with the Kohler motor

Drivetrain: The primary clutch is a Polaris P80 clutch off an early 70's Polaris colt. I had the fixed sheeve of the clutch machined to fit over the straight/keyed crank shaft. The secondary is from a mid 90's Polaris 600 XLT. Both clutches were modified to work with the lower RPM Engagement of the 4 Stroke Kohler. The transmission is a 3 speed spicer, with reverse from a British car called a Hillman, just something I had kicking around. The chaincase, track and suspension came from a 1970 Polaris Mustang. I geared up the chaincase to try and utilize the variety of gearing the transmission offered.

Suspension: The only suspension the machine has to offer are the leaf springs on the skis and where the front section mounts to the power platform.

Brakes: The brake system is fully hydraulic, utilizing the foot brake from a 2012 Polaris Sportsman XP 850, brake lines and caliper from a 2010 Polaris sportsman 500. The disc, from a 70's Polaris colt, modified to fit in the earlier chaincase, which originally came with a band style brake.

Finish – Paint: The paint is just an acrylic heavy duty stage one paint. I usually powder coat all my projects, but just in case I had any modifications to make, I wanted to be able to.

Accessories: I installed lighting in the front storage compartment, built custom spare fuel can holders. The front part of the seat flips up for extra storage.