dan .. you may want to consider making a simple tracked machine like those russian 's do . homebuilt using a small car rearend and steering by braking either back wheel . of course they are tracked all the time , but no chains , etc . don't even need a enclosed body unless your going on ponds or rivers . just a bottom and some wheel fenders to keep mud off . check them out in videos on the web . i've always really liked them . the tracks are pretty straight forward to make too . however you go , it will be fun in your heated shed ! jboy