skipper 6x6

[Airhorn]

Hi. Im 16 and i'm new here and to 6x6s in general. yesterday i bought a beat up skipper atv. I think it has a blown engine(wont crank over) but then again it has sat for a long time. Any thoughts, advise, good engines to swap in? I can't find much info on these. any info would be much appreciated. I am planning on doing a full rebuild. I fish a lot so i want to put a trolling motor in it. also, is there a good way to paint these? where do i find parts for these?

[xbunsenx]

Airhorn,

Welcome to the forum.

If you go to "Other AATVs" and do a search for "Skipper", you will find some threads about your machine. The engine selection would depend on whether you plan to use it as a trail machine or racer. Generally, if you use it as a trail machine you would select a 4 stroke V-Twin engine like a Briggs & Stratton or Predator (inexpensive Harbor Freight brand). If you are into racing, a two stroke might be your choice.

I am not familiar with the Skipper, but there may be some members that could help you more. You may want to look at changing it over to a T-20 transmission since that is a very popular unit and parts are readily available for repairs and rebuilding.

http://www.6x6world.com/forums/searc...archid=6872645

[Airhorn]

Thanks for the reply. Mabe a trans swap is a good idea. I can't even find a part # on mine. also, what do you think about using hydraulics to power it???? honestly, i think how they engineered the steering pretty cheesy. If i'm going to have to replace engine and trans and the steering mechanism, it might be worth it. Give me your honest opinion.

[xbunsenx]

A hydraulic system would be cool, it may get expensive though if you don't already have the system lying around. The T-20 transmission is a good, reliable unit that is easy to operate. You would have to do some fab work to fit new equipment in the machine anyway you look at it. There is a T-20 for sale on here that is only $500.

http://www.6x6world.com/forums/parts...-illinois.html

[Airhorn]

That's not bad..... i have a couple of other projects going on at the moment. I really need to finish those before i start on this. the fab work is not a problem. I have a stick welder and oxy acetylene tanks at our house. i also have access to tig and mig welders.

[Airhorn]

any more ideas would be appreciated. im still planning the build. ill probably roll with a t-20.

[smudvapor]

Where are you located?

[allwheeldrive]

I'd dump a running engine in it first and see what other gremlins come out of the works. If you have the tools and a dry flat place to take it apart than anything is possible with enough time.
Hydraulics aren't really worthwhile in the long run (unless you have the parts for free) you'll need 2x as much HP to get the same performance, and expect to increase the overall weight of the machine by 50%
Their good larger heavier machines.

[Airhorn]

decided to stay away from the hydraulics. I am rebuilding the engine right now.

[jerseybigfoot]

Good idea dropping the hydraulics. Hydraulics are heavy, expensive and don't give your the the reduction ratios of a CVT. I think later skippers had T-20 transmissions which would make it ideal. Post some pics to see what you have. skippers were interesting as they have passenger seats forward of the driver.

[ARGOJIM]

If it has a black box trans in it now I'd try that first, get a cheap clone single and test it out.

[Airhorn]

For some reason, the pics wont attach for me. It's the same trans that is in the brochure pics. Mine is in really good shape. just gotta replace the brake bands.

[Airhorn]

k. so I'm at the middle of the engine. Nearly done with the engine rebuild. I got all parts and stuff. just needs assembly. I was wondering though...... when i pulled out my crank shaft, My bearings were seized. i took a pry bar and pliers and pushed the outside race towards the casting, lubed it up and they spin just fine now. Should i replace these anyway? I want this engine to last a while...... They spin and act new now but...........

[dirtdobber]

I would replace the bearings.

[olargo]

I agree with dirtdobber. Definitely replace the bearings, as you said - you "want this engine to last a while"