BRP Ski-Doo Skandic WT550 is a high-tech snowmobile from a Canadian developer. It belongs to the classic utilitarian snowmobiles, but at the same time it has unique characteristics. Among the main features of the device, we note efficiency, high traction force and excellent controllability.
The equipment was developed by BRP and is distinguished by excellent workmanship. Thus, the snowmobile enjoys well-deserved popularity all over the world, including in the post-Soviet space. The model in question was developed on the REV-XU platform, which uses proven technical solutions as well as innovative components. Thanks to this “trolley,” the Canadian company was significantly ahead of its closest competitors in terms of technology and prospects. This platform is also characterized by convenience and performance. Let's pay attention to the ergonomic seating position of the driver, who can stretch his legs without any problems, regardless of his height. The center of gravity is under the seat, and to reduce fatigue on long trips, the seat has been moved forward. In addition, the platform uses lightweight materials to reduce the weight of the snowmobile by 15%.
The BRP Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 is a modern model that is still relevant, despite many years of production. Unlike the conventional REV platform, the upgraded REV-XU chassis combines improved dynamic and strength characteristics. The fact is that the frame is made of aluminum. The snowmobile is a two-seater as standard. The modular seat is equipped with a full backrest and is suitable for any driving style.
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Main features of the snowmobile:
- Customizable steering column that can be adapted to a specific driver
- Sports rear suspension SC-5U, developed exclusively for this snowmobile. With such a chassis you can, without fear, overcome snow-covered trails of various types
- The front telescopic suspension of the LTS has high levels of rigidity, and allows you to move through deep snowdrifts. A car with such a suspension can move over rough terrain
- Wide tracks for increased maneuverability
- Halogen light optics
- Multifunction center consisting of digital instruments with gauges (includes speedometer, tachometer and odometer)
- Proprietary Synchromesh gearbox, adapted to heavy loads. The gearbox has only two forward and one reverse speeds, which ensure smooth running regardless of external climatic and road factors.
- The machine is equipped with thin and narrow Pilot DS2 skis of its own design. Such skis are characterized by high strength, rigidity and high maneuverability. In addition, the use of such skis had a positive effect on handling and maneuverability. The lower gear made it possible to expand the possibilities of using the snowmobile and made it more versatile.
- A high windshield that plays a protective role. It protects against strong winds in mountainous conditions.
The potential of the BRP Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 snowmobile is so high that it can be compared to a reliable off-road vehicle, ready to conquer any heights. The car is very stable and safe, it is ideal for recreation, hunting and extreme adventures. Moreover, this device is adapted to such conditions and is a reliable assistant that can help you get out of any off-road situation.
Ski-Doo Expedition 1200 SE Luxury Snowmobile Review
This snowmobile can safely be called a legend. It is recognized as one of the most luxurious, powerful and comfortable snowmobiles in its class. You can mention many more epithets for this model, but first things first.
The snowmobile comes with many features and things that many people can only dream about. Pleasant “surprises” include a front power bumper, a sliding plate, and a rear luggage case. To make it possible to pull the snowmobile out of a difficult area in a short period of time, a winch is provided under the seat. The adjustable steering column allows you to customize the control for each person, taking into account the physical characteristics of each person. 150 “mares” allow, despite the large size of the snowmobile, to ride quickly with a passenger, for whom a special backrest is provided at the back. Comfortable trips are hard to imagine without a roomy, ergonomic seat with a thick layer of padding.
The snowmobile has incredible cross-country ability. Track length (utility) is 154 inches, width 50 cm. Hook height 32 mm, reverse gear will not leave a chance even in the most severe weather conditions. A snowmobile capable of driving where it would seem impossible to do so. The presence of a low gear makes it possible to tow heavy loads, trailers and sleds. The use of the model under consideration is quite wide. A snowmobile can not only “plow”, but can also seriously compete with sports cars.
Fast driving becomes a reality thanks to the incredibly powerful 1.2 liter engine. The model of the productive element is “Rotex 1200”. This inline 3-cylinder unit is renowned for its performance all over the world. In addition to dynamics and power, it is very reliable. It is difficult to overestimate the motor resource, which is simply enormous
What else about the layout as a whole? Let's pay attention to the intake muffler, which is similar to a certain musical instrument. The engine is moved as close to the track as possible, this has a positive effect on the stability of the snow machine
The exhaust system consists of only one exhaust can, unlike other brands of snowmobiles. The rear suspension is supplemented with a pneumatic element, which improves the performance of the shock-absorbing system. The suspension at the rear of the snowmobile has 6 stiffness settings. It is possible to install automatic stiffness adjustment to maintain optimal suspension performance, regardless of the load on the snowmobile and changing road conditions.
The front suspension is similar to the shock-absorbing systems of sports versions of “Ski doo” snowmobiles
On uneven trails there is a high level of stability and comfort, which is important for “executive” snowmobiles
Specifications
- Dimensions, mm: Length – 3236, Width – 1076, Height – 1330
- Distance between skis – 900 mm
- Track dimensions: Length/width/height of lug - 3923/508/38.1 mm
- Dry weight – 45 kg
- Passenger capacity including driver – 2 seats
- LTS front suspension
- Front shock absorbers - adjustable
- Front suspension travel – 150 mm
- Rear suspension – SC-5U
- Shock absorbers/rear suspension travel – HPG/239 mm
- Presence of anti-roll bars – no
- Transmission – CVT
- Drive/Driven CVT Pulley – eDrive2/QRS
- The brake system is hydraulic.
Engine
The machine is equipped with a two-stroke Rotax 600 YO E-TEC engine, which is characterized by unpretentiousness and high performance. The disadvantages of its predecessors and competitors include low efficiency and environmental friendliness, given the sporty settings. Fortunately, all these disadvantages were eliminated in the new engine.
All thanks to the fact that the motor is based on a time-tested design, which has been significantly improved. The two-stroke engine has E-TEC technology and is well adapted to harsh climatic conditions. The latest generation unit has an electronic control unit combined with a powerful on-board computer that controls the transfer of fuel to the cylinders according to a specific schedule. In addition, we note the improved lubrication system, which resembles an electronic fuel injection system. Thanks to rational lubrication, oil is consumed strictly in a certain amount - this makes it possible to avoid overconsumption.
In addition to the above features, we note other useful properties of the Rotax 600 H.0 E-TEC motor:
- Cooling system for piezo injection injectors, which works using gasoline
- Computer system for monitoring the condition of working parts
- Spark plugs are supplemented with platinum tips, which indicates a long service life and durability
- Instant response to gas supply, and as a result, a confident start from a standstill
- The engine starts the first time at extremely low temperatures
- The engine is characterized by smooth and quiet operation.
Despite the displacement of 0.5 liters, the Rotax 600 HO E-TEC engine is capable of developing 57 horsepower. The two-cylinder layout has a cylinder diameter of 72 mm, and the list of recommended fuel types includes AI-92.
Other features:
- Air cooling system
- The pipe with muffler is a single exhaust system
- Fuel tank capacity 45 l
- 2.5 liter oil tank
- Average fuel consumption is 11 liters per 100 km.
Repair of gearbox of snowmobile Scandic 550
If you hear a characteristic noise in the area of the gearbox, the bearing in the lower idler gear may have failed. There is a danger of subsequent breakdown of the lower gear and both “parasites”, and in especially sad cases you can get a breakdown of the crankcase.
Without waiting for problems, I strongly recommend that you start repairing the gearbox, which is described in the video below.
BRP Ski-Doo Tundra WT 550F
The Tundra WT 550F is called an excellent all-around model that can be easily used for both recreation and various tasks. This snowmobile perfectly harmonizes such characteristics as stable operation, reliability, as well as ease of control and excellent dynamics. The use of an exclusive telescopic suspension allowed the company's engineers to achieve excellent maneuverability and controllability when overcoming real winter off-road conditions. The BRP Ski-Doo Tundra WT 550F is equipped with a Rotax 552SK 2-stroke power unit that can pull the car out of any trap. It is also worth noting the use on this model of a reliable steel steering wheel with a spacer, as well as a special mountain sling.
Reviews
- Sergey, Ufa. The BRP Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 snowmobile was purchased in Nizhnevartovsk, on the day the local official representative office of BRP opened. I was really looking forward to this day. It’s good that I have relatives there - they took the car and sent it to me in Ufa. I admit, this is my first snowmobile. Well, except that I had the opportunity to go hunting and fishing with my friends, and one of them was always behind the wheel. So I wanted for myself, and not just anything, but a high-quality and reliable snowmobile. The car is excellent for hunting and fishing. I travel not only around Ufa, but also throughout many regions of Siberia. So, since 2014, the snowmobile has been in use for six to seven months a year. The car pleased me with its high-torque performance, it easily pulls loads and shmurdyak, quickly accelerates and brakes. Fuel efficiency is at a high level. The average is 15 liters per 100 km. I didn’t really delve into the maintenance of the snowmobile - well, except to replace consumables, and nothing more. Scheduled maintenance was carried out according to regulations at the dealership while the warranty was still in effect. So far there are no problems, I'm happy with the snowmobile.
- Alexey, Primorye. Scandic 550 is a good snowmobile for relatively little money. The car looks stylish and solid, has great traction and power. The 550 model is sufficient for my needs, although of course it cannot be compared with older BRP snowmobiles. The maximum speed is 50 km/h - not enough for sports needs, but just right for leisurely driving. The device is suitable for traveling together and for transporting small cargo. Thanks to the fuel consumption of 14 liters, you can cover various distances without worrying about the need to refuel. I’m not going to give the most flattering review about the geometric cross-country ability – the car gets buried in a deep snowdrift because it doesn’t have enough power. Slipping, slipping - all this is possible, so you need to drive carefully and thoughtfully, and not drive into some wilderness. The relatively high weight explains why the snowmobile is so slow and often sinks into deep snow. But I still like the car, it is very reliable and does not cause problems with the chassis if used correctly.
- Rustam, Simferopol. The Ski-Doo Skandic WT 550 snowmobile was given to me in 2016 for my birthday. This is my first car like this; I’ve never ridden a snowmobile before. I took it purely for entertainment. It was bought by people who are well versed in snowmobiles. Naturally, at first I rode with an instructor, then gradually I got used to it myself, and now I’m no longer afraid to accelerate to 80 km/h. I noticed that the device has an indestructible suspension that is not afraid of breakdowns, and this is very important when driving on uneven and bumpy roads. I liked the comfortable, adjustable seat, which I quickly adjusted to my body proportions. There's also a heated grip feature and visibility is excellent. In general, the WT 550 snowmobile is very stable and soft, designed for a measured and quiet ride. This car has no need for sporty habits, and it is even more unsafe for a beginner.
- Oleg, Chukotka. The device is fast enough for its power. I use the full potential of the engine, and I manage to reach as much as 90 km/h, which is quite good for 60 hp. With. But due to the fact that during a sharp increase in speed the engine operates at maximum speed, fuel consumption increases. The result is more than 20 liters per hundred, which is not good for an entry-level snowmobile. I understand that I decided to save money, and at the same time I wanted to get something more sporty. Alas, the snowmobile turned out to be soft and poorly controlled in sharp maneuvers, although it rides well and steadily in a straight line. There are no breakdowns in the suspension. Another disadvantage I would like to note is the weak carriage. Over the course of three seasons I have already contacted the service several times. Too expensive to maintain for a snowmobile with such “budget” capabilities. For example, you will have to part with 35 thousand rubles if you just change the windshield. It is clear that other parts are not cheap either. From myself I can say that you should not be fooled by the low price of the car, since the snowmobile will still be expensive to maintain.
Adjusting the front suspension of the BRP Scandic 550 snowmobile
The choice of the optimal combination of suspension parameters is determined by the load of the snowmobile, the weight of the driver, the characteristics of the individual driving style and subjective preferences, the speed limit and the condition of the track.
Before adjusting the suspension, do the following:
- Stop the snowmobile in a safe place;
- Remove the safety cord cap from the contact device;
- Before adjusting the front or rear suspension, make sure the lifting device is secure and stable.
Change one adjustable suspension parameter at a time. For example, after adjusting the front springs, you may need to readjust the center spring. Each step of the suspension adjustment must be verified by a test run on a snowmobile under identical conditions: the track, snow conditions, driving speed, driver position on the seat, etc. must be the same. Perform all adjustments consistently and completely until the desired result is obtained.
Rear suspension setup
- Tape limiter;
- Central spring and shock absorber;
- Rear shock absorber;
- Rear spring preload adjustment cams;
- Suspension extension adjuster;
- Suspension extension spring preload adjuster.
Band stop length
Changing the length of the limiter bands allows you to change the weight placed on the center spring when the snowmobile accelerates and limit the lift of the snowmobile's front suspension. The length of the stop bands also affects the stroke length of the central spring.
Set both strap stops to the same length. After changing the length of the stop bands, you need to check the track tension.
| Action | Result |
| Increasing the length of tape stops | Reducing ski pressure when accelerating |
| Increasing the stroke of the central spring | |
| Improved bump damping | |
| Reducing the length of tape stops | Increasing ski pressure when accelerating |
| Reducing the stroke of the central spring | |
| Deterioration of bump damping |
When driving in deep snow, it may be necessary to adjust the tape limiter, as well as to change the driver’s position in order to adjust the angle of contact of the caterpillar with the supporting surface. A driver with sufficient knowledge and experience will always be able to choose the most optimal adjustment option, taking into account the condition of the snow cover.
Rear spring preload
The amount of rear spring preload affects the ride comfort of the snowmobile, the driver's seat height, and also helps compensate for the loads that arise when transporting cargo.
In addition, various rear spring preload adjustments allow you to increase or decrease the weight carried by the snowmobile's front suspension. As a result, the pressure of the skis on the supporting surface also increases or decreases. This allows you to improve performance when driving in deep snow, as well as reduce or increase steering effort and thereby improve the handling of the snowmobile.
If, when driving a snowmobile on the most uneven sections of the route, only slight breakdowns of the suspension are observed, it means that the adjustment of the suspension components has been carried out correctly.
| Action | Result |
| Increase pre-tension | The rear suspension becomes more rigid |
| The rear of the snowmobile rises | |
| Improved bump damping | |
| Steering effort increases | |
| Reducing pre-tension | Rear suspension becomes softer |
| The rear of the snowmobile lowers | |
| Deterioration of bump damping | |
| Steering effort is reduced | |
| Improves snowmobile performance and handling in deep snow |
A typical option for correct adjustment: A - The suspension is extended to full travel; B - The suspension is compressed under the weight of the driver, passenger(s) and cargo; C - Difference between distances “A” and “B”, see table. below.
| C, mm | Reason, solution |
| 50-75 | No adjustment required |
| more than 75 | The adjustment is too soft. Increase pretension |
| less than 50 | The adjustment is too tight. Reduce pretension |
To increase spring tension, always turn the left adjusting cam clockwise and the right adjusting cam counterclockwise.
The complete process of adjusting the suspension can be found in the operating instructions for the BRP Ski Do VT 550.
