Snowmobile Mechanics in Duluth

B-man Aug 26, 2010 16 Comments

I need some work done to my 2000 Ski-Doo. I have contacted local dealers and their shop rates are astronomical ($65-$90/ hour!) and they typically will not let me purchase the needed parts on my own which adds many hundreds of dollars to the total bill. I have asked around and many mechanics are too busy to take on any more projects.

Does anyone know of a reputable snowmobile mechanic that has immediate availability? I also have some friends that would be interested in booking some smaller maintenance type jobs with him/ her. I am trying to keep within a 20-30 mile radius of Duluth.

Thanks in advance for any responses, and I know it is only August but we may have snow in the next 90 days, and I’m trying to be prepared.

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16 Comments

Swan

about 14 years ago

I know nothing about sleds but with motorcycles I buy the factory service and parts manuals. With the OEM factory part number you can buy direct from the manufacturer, other online businesses or E-bay and do the work yourself. With exploded diagrams and factory manuals I have built many vintage motorcycles without any formal training.

Also, look for online Ski-Doo forums for advice, vendor reviews and part sources. 

Good luck and think snow.

Pear Head

about 14 years ago

I've had good results with Steve Wick (try ABD Mobile Brake Service).  Others I know have had mixed results with him, so YMMV.  I haven't brought anything to him for a few years as I've eventually moved to doing all work out of my own garage.

-Berv

about 14 years ago

I can't wait for the year 2023, so I can buy a ski-doo and say "23 skidoo" all the time.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/23_skidoo_(phrase)

B-man

about 14 years ago

@swan
I used to work on my own junk but engines have become vastly complicated for a kid with half a tool box. The electronics and self sensing altitude adjustments for the carburetors and , other stuff I'm ignorant about is too overwhelming for my mechanical skills.  I'm looking to replace the pistons, rings, and possibly the shaft bearings.

@Pear Head
I spoke with Steve and he will not take any business until the first Saturday of deer season, I'm trying to get it done in the next 30-60 days.

Thanks for the feed back y'all

kingsnow

about 14 years ago

What exactly is wrong with your 2000 Ski Doo? That will determine the level expertise you seek.

RS

about 14 years ago

Yes, what's wrong with it?  Would like to know so I can ask my hubby if it's ok to give out his # (if it's got an engine he can almost always fix it, unless the problem is something uncommon way out in left field.  His rap sheet includes but is not limited to: autos, pickups, both his and his fathers motorhome, his fathers semi, his race car (drag), sleds, wheelers, lawn mowers, snowblowers, golf cart, and a few other things I'm sure I'm forgetting).  Don't want to give out his number without his permission (he is not a mechanic professionally, however he IS the only person I trust to touch my car).

RS

about 14 years ago

Oops, hahaha, didn't see where you said "looking to replace pistons, rings, etc."  Will ask him and get back to you.

B-man

about 14 years ago

@kingsnow
I think I blew a hole in the #2 piston because there is metal melted to my RAVE exhaust valves.  I need it opened up, diagnosed, repaired and correctly reassembled.  It's the "correctly reassembled" part that is above my mechanical skills.

Any feedback or leads would be great.

Gary

about 14 years ago

Maybe give Emerson Stahl a call at Emerson's Used Snowmobile Parts in Proctor.  I'm sure he's got some parts you can buy from him and he's really a good guy.  624-2183

CardiacSeven

about 14 years ago

Jerry (can't recall last name) works on Sleds and MotoX.  Fixed and tuned my sled last season for me, super reasonable and highly qualified.

Cell = 218.390.4372

the PartsGuy

about 14 years ago

Not sure if the guy's still in business, but look up T. Craig services in the phone book.

Wink Timber

about 14 years ago

I have had good luck with T. Craig Services on U.S. 2 in Saginaw. He is located about midway between where MN 194 ends and MN 33. He has LOADS of used parts and often buys NOS from dealerships that are clearing out the old stuff.

7220 U.S. 2 
Saginaw, MN 55779-9687
(218) 729-8656

B-man

about 14 years ago

Thanks again for all the leads. I will be following up with these suggestions this week, and I can post an update in case anyone else is in need of this kind of thing too.

kingsnow

about 14 years ago

From what you describe it's a melt down. Dirty carbs cause them to run lean and then detonation occurs. Any snowmobile mechanic can do it (recommend TCraig as well). Your biggest issue is the cylinder itself. Chances are it will need to be replaced or replated. If want more info let me know and I'll be happy to assist.

shannon

about 13 years ago

I got a 2003 mxz zx 800 renegade. When I reach 60kmh, it backfires and sputters. A few quick jolts of the trottle and it's fine until I slow down again. I cleaned r.a.v.e, carbs, and tried another coil. No luck. Please help me. Thanks.

B-man

about 13 years ago

@ Shannon-
I have no idea what is happening to your sled, but Brandon @ Emerson Stahl most likely will.  He fixed up my junk right good last fall, and I have enjoyed 2000 miles of trouble free riding this season.  Give him or one of the other suggested mechanics a call, you will have lots of time after this next snow to get it in shape for next season.

http://www.usedsnowmobileparts.net/

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