The Taiga Patrol 550 snowmobile holds the record for the number of kilometers traveled in runs and various expeditions. This snowmobile is the only one that was included in the Russian Book of Records, as it was able to overcome the Rybinsk-Salekhard-Uelen run, which lasted 11 thousand kilometers. In this regard, Taiga Patrol 550 was included in the top hundred best products in Russia. It itself belongs to the multifunctional utilitarian machines. Serial production of this snowmobile is carried out by the Rybinsk manufacturer Russian Mechanics.
TAYGA PATRUL 550 SWT has a comfortable two-level seat, a removable backrest, special handles for the passenger, a heated steering wheel and gas trigger, a hydraulic brake, and a tow bar.
The snowmobile comes standard with heated grips and throttle trigger, electric start, LED rear light and footrests. The car has a plastic anti-reflective windshield with sufficient height, which protects the driver from snow and headwinds.
How to choose a snowmobile for hunting and fishing?
Let us note that today buyers have a unique opportunity to purchase a snowmobile of any brand and configuration. Utilitarian models are designed specifically for hunters and fishermen who love active winter recreation. Before you buy a snowmobile, you need to remember some rules for choosing them:
- Patency. In reliable models, the track must be at least 500 mm wide. This width is a guarantee that the snowmobile can easily cope with drifts of loose snow. The optimal ratio of weight and design features ensures that movement through bushy areas or low forest will be comfortable. In this regard, the Taiga Patrol 550 SWT model attracts attention precisely with its track width of 600 mm. The maneuverability of the equipment depends on the ski suspension - it’s good if it’s telescopic.
- Reliability. If a snowmobile has a weak engine and the suspension is of poor quality, then it is unlikely to be suitable for use. Only a reliable engine guarantees that hunting will be fast and safe.
- Availability of luggage compartment. If you choose a hunting snowmobile, pay attention to the availability of luggage compartments. The more there are, the better. This is exactly the kind of trunk the Taiga Patrol 550 SWT snowmobile has.
Appearance
Anyone who sees the Patrol 551 SVT snowmobile for the first time notices its impressive appearance. Belongs to the SWT type - super wide track. The track width is 600 mm. You can count the number of cars with such a running belt on one hand. Patrul 551 looks like a snowdrift. The wide base and gradually tapering upward block of the hood looks powerful. The white color makes it invisible on the snow surface.
The wide frame, hiding a six-hundred-millimeter track, allows you to place a large seat (very wide and soft). In principle, you can even fit three people, but close to each other. Two adults in bulky equipment fit comfortably on a snowmobile, so the long journey will not be a burden.
What are the benefits of utilitarian models?
Utilitarian snowmobiles are considered the best snowmobile for hunting and just active recreation. They are distinguished by their adaptability to harsh climatic conditions, are able to drive on difficult terrain and do not require frequent repairs even with constant use. Their distinctive features are high weight capacity, telescopic front suspension, heated steering wheel and seats. The Taiga Patrol SWT 550 snowmobile fully meets all these requirements. The photo shows how stylish and impressive this technique looks. Many hunters using Taiga snowmobiles note that the main thing is to understand their controls.
Brand Features
To begin with, we note that Taiga snowmobiles are produced in a wide range of models. This means that each buyer has the opportunity to choose a modification to suit their requirements. Reviews about the Taiga Patrol SWT 550 snowmobile are most often positive, and they note the main advantages of this equipment:
- Engines 38-65 l. With.
- Air or liquid cooling.
- Telescopic or wishbone front suspension.
- Wide caterpillar.
- Cleverly maneuverable formula: two steering skis are combined with one track, resulting in a smooth ride and a high level of shock absorption.
Reviews note that the engine is torquey and has low gearing, so even heavy loads can be towed. The presence of an advanced ignition system ensures optimal engine performance and confidence when traveling long distances.
Many people like the Tayga Patrul 550 SWT snowmobile due to its comfortable control: the steering wheel and gas lever are heated, double seats and a spacious trunk allow for the most efficient use of the available space. The skis are made of lightweight Canadian-made plastic, so they have better glide. Special inserts made of hard metals result in improved handling. The combination of the increased seat cushion height and high windshield makes travel comfortable.
The beginning of the history of "Taiga"
The equipment of this brand has been known to Russian buyers for a long time. Modern models are developed according to foreign standards. Serial production of the Taiga Patrol 550 SWT models began in 1999, and for about 10 years the model was produced without changes. However, modern realities required a different approach, and the manufacturer was forced to make concessions.
Initially, snowmobiles were conceived as a full-fledged competitor to foreign technology, and for the end of the last century they were considered very technically equipped and advanced. The design was carried out on the patterns of the BRP Scandic snowmobile, which was popular at that time, and in terms of its operational properties, the Russian equipment was no worse.
First updates
In 2006, snowmobiles of the Taiga brand were equipped with a front wishbone suspension, the Taiga-Attack modification appeared, which even had a different design: the hood began to have a slightly different design and a full-fledged seat for two appeared. This model was liked by buyers, but still there were no major changes.
Today we have updated models - TAYGA 550 SE and Tayga Patrul 550 SWT. Reviews of the latest model indicate that it is truly perfect - it is no coincidence that manufacturers paid close attention to improving these models. What has changed?
Firstly, snowmobiles began to be equipped with a 2-stroke 2-cylinder engine producing 55 hp. With. air cooled. The working volume of the model is larger, the power is higher, the engine itself has become more pliable due to petal valves at the inlet. The power plant of this model is well thought out and functions stably, which cannot be said about the engines of older models.
Secondly, we were pleasantly surprised by the new designs. The double seat has become higher, so it is comfortable to sit behind the wheel. Ergonomics and comfortable handling - perhaps these are the qualities that distinguish the Taiga Patrol SWT 550 snowmobile (customer reviews also note this).
Recommended price from the manufacturer
The manufacturer's website lists the recommended retail price, which is 483 thousand rubles. It is indicated without taking into account delivery to the regions, so the final cost should be checked with official dealers. So new tracks without mileage, with PSM, produced in the period from 2022 to 2022 can be bought for 408-510 thousand rubles. In addition, you can find new cars in 2022 for 380 thousand rubles.
Since this model is no longer new, you can find earlier models of used snowmobiles on ad sites. The cost of a bike produced in 2016-2017 ranges from 250-350 thousand rubles.
Technical features
The TAYGA 550 PATRUL SWT snowmobile can be purchased on the Russian market for around 350,000 rubles. What do you get for this considerable money? Note that this vehicle is ideal if you plan to overcome the harshest snowy off-road conditions. Due to the maximum track width (600 mm), the snowmobile copes well even with difficult terrain. The rear suspension is single shock absorber, adjustable, so the snowmobile behaves steadily and confidently on the road. Another important advantage is the versatility of operation.
And now about what qualities distinguish the Taiga Patrol SWT 550 snowmobile:
- speed is one of the main advantages of this model;
- telescopic front suspension - copes well with any off-road conditions;
- electric start - allows you to operate the equipment with maximum comfort;
- burnt handles;
- light socket;
- special footrest - ensures comfortable seating for passengers.
Specifications
Dimensional data:
- The structural length of the snowmobile is 2950 millimeters.
- Width with skis - 1150 millimeters.
- The total height with glass is 1460 millimeters.
- The total length of the track is 3937 millimeters.
- The width of the caterpillar track is 600 millimeters.
- The height of the caterpillar track is 22 millimeters.
- The track width between the ski centers is 900 millimeters.
- The track base of the snowmobile is 508 millimeters.
Operational values:
- Structural weight - 315 kilograms.
- The model of the installed engine is RMZ-550.
- The type of engine installed is gasoline.
- The octane number of the fuel being poured is AI-92.
- Engine starting type - using an electric starter.
- The type of rear shock absorber of the propulsion unit is hydropneumatic single-tube.
- Fuel tank capacity is 55 liters.
Transmission:
- The type of optionally installed transmission is a variator.
- The type of transmission installed is two-stage.
- Number of speeds - 3: low, high, reverse.
Brakes:
- Control type: hydraulic.
- Braking mechanism type: hydraulic disc.
Suspension:
- Front suspension type: telescopic.
- Front suspension travel is 105 millimeters.
- Rear suspension type: slip.
- Rear suspension travel is 190 millimeters.
Electrical equipment:
- Front headlight type: halogen.
- Taillight type: LED.
- Heated steering wheel and throttle trigger are standard.
Design features
What attracts the attention of the Taiga Patrol SWT 550 snowmobile? Reviews from many customers boil down to indicating the following parameters that are important to them:
- A high windshield, which is created from elastic plastic. It does not break and has anti-reflective properties, making the operation of the snowmobile absolutely safe.
- Updated LED light located at the rear of the snowmobile.
It is also noted that thanks to the powerful dual headlight, the road surface is perfectly illuminated even in the dark.
Snowmobile Taiga Patrol 800 SWT
The Taiga Patrol 800 swt snowmobile was released not long ago, for the 2016-17 winter season, the 800 swt patrol was introduced. This snowmobile has acquired a rather modern look, and differs in many ways from its predecessors. Russian specialists have modified the engine, thereby increasing its service life, as evidenced by the increased warranty, which has increased to 3 years (quite a significant period), or up to 3000 kilometers traveled.
Advantages of the patrol 800 swt model.
This model was developed internationally and received quite good characteristics. Since Chinese-made engines are not more popular, Russian technicians have achieved high strength of this unit. The engine is four-stroke with a liquid cooling system, engine displacement is 800 cc. The cooling system has two radiators: snow and air. The cooling system has built-in fluid heating, which facilitates excellent starting in cold weather. The fuel tank holds 55 liters of gasoline, which is enough for a distance of 250 kilometers.
Equipment features
The reviews note that the Taiga Patrol 550 SWT snowmobile is very reliable and stable in operation. The characteristics of the multi-purpose utilitarian vehicle are impressive. In addition, this model shows an ideal price-quality ratio. Power 50 l. With. enough to overcome any off-road conditions. The PM3 550 engine is air-cooled and has a joint lubrication system. The fuel supply system is single-carburetor.
Ease of movement is ensured by a wide track: thanks to a width of 500-600 mm, stability and excellent maneuverability are ensured. There is also an electric starter, which is additionally equipped with a handbrake.
Comparison with competitors and analogues
Competition is strongly influenced by the price and technical characteristics of the SWT 550. The budget model costs much less than its foreign counterparts, so the choice is obvious. The Patrol's closest opponent is the Irbis Dingo T125 snowmobile. Of course, the Chinese product is much inferior to the domestic development in technical terms, but it costs a little less. The Irbis is great for fishing and hunting, but on long trips the Patrol 550 has the advantage.
You should not lose sight of more expensive models with similar characteristics, for example, the Yamaha Phazer RTX. The only difference between the two models is the price; the Japanese one is much more expensive.
Modern and reliable
As we have already said, one of the updated snowmobile models is the Taiga Patrol 550 SWT, the characteristics of which allow it to be used for winter recreation of any format. In addition, these models are actively used in rescue services. However, the most important feature of this product is its utility, which is what is generally required from utilitarian snowmobiles. What is the benefit? Firstly, it has a wide track, which is great for driving in deep snow. Secondly, low fuel consumption. Thirdly, in reliability. In addition, the Tayga 550 Patrul SWT can reach a top speed of 90 km/h.
If you are looking for a serious car that will be simple, cross-country and have a high load capacity, then this utilitarian model is created exclusively for you. Today, the snowmobile is widely used as the main working equipment in forestry, ranger lands, and when laying snowmobile routes or ski tracks. In addition, the Tayga 550 Patrul SWT is popular among hunters and winter fishing enthusiasts.
Thanks to the long-travel telescopic suspension, the ride is safe and comfortable in difficult areas where you can get caught in trees, for example. And the rear suspension, supplemented by springs, can be adjusted, thereby ensuring a smooth ride of the snowmobile.
Engine
The Taiga PATRUL 551 SWT model is equipped with a power unit of the RMZ-551 brand, which is precisely what is indicated in the machine index. This engine is two-stroke and has two cylinders with a diameter of 76 millimeters. The piston stroke is 61 millimeters. The total working volume of this unit is 553 cubic meters.
The power supply system is carburetor, consisting of two carburetors of the Mikuni model. The cooling system is liquid, which makes it possible to use the machine even at above-zero temperatures, which is undoubtedly a big plus.
There are no particular difficulties for this snowmobile. The model is capable of driving through the most difficult terrain at a fairly high speed, as well as overcoming various snow covers, regardless of their depth.
In order to significantly simplify everyday operation, the manufacturer equipped the snowmobile with a separate lubrication system, and to increase autonomy, a fuel tank with a volume of 55 liters and an oil tank with a volume of 2.5 liters were used.
A telescopic ski suspension was installed, in which the travel was increased to 150 millimeters, and the structure itself was significantly strengthened. Thanks to this, the snowmobile has become adapted for use in the most severe and extreme conditions. There is also a rear suspension with the ability to adjust it, which allows you to customize the car for a certain type of work or driving.
"Taiga Patrol 550 SWT": instructions and operating features
Before driving a snowmobile, you should read the instructions and operating manual. Better yet, ask the dealer about the driving characteristics of a particular model. It is advisable to carry out maintenance of models in service centers where all the necessary equipment, tools and spare parts are available so that the repairs are carried out competently and professionally.
The instruction manual is needed so that you can become familiar with the operating features of the snowmobile, the purpose of the control mechanisms, maintenance procedures, and so on. The main recommendations for operating the Taiga are as follows:
- The snowmobile must not be ridden on public streets or roads. When driving off-road, the driver must obey the basic traffic rules.
- The snowmobile must be registered with the state technical supervision authorities within 5 days from the date of purchase.
- A snowmobile can be driven by persons who have a license to drive self-propelled vehicles of category A.
- Using equipment for purposes other than its intended purpose and risky driving that provokes emergency situations on the road are prohibited.
- The snowmobile operator must always wear a helmet and a face mask.
- When traveling long distances, you should stop for short breaks.
User manual
Each Taiga snowmobile comes with detailed operating instructions. If for some reason it is missing, then you can easily find it on the Internet and download it. Since this snowmobile model is no longer new, the likelihood of finding a copy without mileage is reduced to zero. Running in the engine may only be necessary if a new factory unit is installed on the track.
Maintenance
Full maintenance of all the main components of the snowbike is carried out every 2500-3500 kilometers. When commissioning after long-term storage (preservation), so-called seasonal maintenance is carried out. Detailed recommendations on how to do this can be found in the user manual. There is also a table indicating which procedures need to be carried out and when.
Daily maintenance
In addition to scheduled and seasonal maintenance, there are a number of control operations that must be performed each time before leaving. These include:
- diagnostics of the serviceability of the brake system, steering, condition of skis and tracks;
- checking fuel, brake fluid, oil levels;
- checking the reliability of fastenings and the availability of spare parts;
- inspect the air filter for snow, clean if necessary;
- cleaning headlights from dirt;
- test start of the engine, check of operation;
- inspection of traction fastening.
In addition, every time after returning from a trip, it is necessary to clean the all-terrain vehicle from snow, ice and other contaminants. After this, it is necessary to dry those places where liquid has accumulated.
Recommendations for preservation and storage
Before placing a snowmobile in long-term storage, it is necessary to perform a number of operations to preserve it. All of the following actions must be done no later than the tenth day after cessation of operation. Preservation is carried out if the all-terrain vehicle is placed in long-term storage after the end of the season or if the vehicle will not be used for any reason for more than two months.
In order for the snowmobile to remain in good condition for as long as possible, it must be stored in a dry, well-ventilated and unheated area, without direct exposure to sunlight. Before this, you should clean the car of snow, traces of fuel and engine oil, and wash it with warm water. At the same time, make sure that detergents and liquids do not come into contact with the carburetor or electrical equipment.
Daniila Rukin
Snowmobile specialist "Buran". I go fishing in my free time.
Ask a Question
It is strictly not recommended to use soda or kerosene to clean painted parts.
Before preservation, it is necessary to carry out a technical inspection , flush the gearbox and fill it with new oil. To preserve the engine, you need to use the oil that is indicated in the “Filling the snowmobile with fuel and engine oil” section of the operating instructions.
Work order:
- Start the engine, simultaneously open the fuel adjuster and depress the gas.
- After 1-2 seconds, stop the engine, return the gas lever and fuel adjuster to their original position.
- Disconnect the battery and remove it. In this case, the black wire should be disconnected last.
- Remove the fan and variator belt. Rinse and sprinkle with talcum powder. Place on a darkened shelf in a straightened state, away from heating appliances. Keep the temperature within 0-25 degrees.
- Apply a thin layer of engine oil to open hinge joints, metal structural elements, and welding points.
- Clean and thoroughly dry the electrical wiring parts, and if necessary, insulate the exposed parts of the wires.
- Wrap the components in oiled paper.
- Loosen the track tension mechanism.
After this, the truck must be installed on a durable stand and a special cover must be put on.
During long-term storage, the rubber parts of the fuel pump may dry out. To restore its functionality, completely fill the fuel tank, alternately pulling out and retracting the handle, and applying increased pressure to the neck of the tank.
How to drive a snowmobile?
Remember that exceeding the safe speed is prohibited. The driving characteristics of the snowmobile depend on the driver's position. The best position is sitting, as this is the most comfortable way to operate the machine. This method is suitable for driving on snowy roads in optimal condition. You can also drive a snowmobile half-sitting with your legs bent. Another option is to operate while standing on one knee. Driving while standing is an opportunity to clearly see the surrounding space, while the driver can change the center of gravity of the body in any direction to make driving the car comfortable.
Choosing a driving style
Driving style directly depends on the condition of the track. When driving along a prepared trail, the best option would be to drive a snowmobile while sitting, without exceeding the permissible speed. An unprepared route often runs through uneven snow, so you should move along it carefully. The engine compartment must be cleared of accumulated grass and debris in advance.
When driving through deep snow, it is important not to get stuck. In such situations, you should change direction to move in a larger radius and find an area with dense snow. It is dangerous to ride a snowmobile on ice, so you should not cross a frozen river.
Remember that snow is a kind of lubricant for the sliding surface between the rails and the track, which simultaneously removes heat generated from friction and cools the rails. When driving on dense snow, you need to take into account the difficulty of adhesion to the supporting surface. You should also overcome climbs carefully - first accelerate the snowmobile on a horizontal path, then choose the gentlest slope and direct the car towards it.
When descending, you should control the movement of the snowmobile: it is better to sit down and grab the steering wheel with both hands. By lightly pressing the gas lever, you need to monitor the stable operation of the engine during the descent process.
Maintenance Features
As we have already said, one of the reliable snowmobiles is the Taiga Patrol 550 SWT. Repair and maintenance of the machine should be carried out in a timely manner, without waiting for parts and mechanisms to wear out. Maintenance is a preventative measure that must be carried out promptly and periodically. According to the instructions, technical inspection must be carried out first every 1000 km, then every 3000 km.
An important maintenance operation is lubrication - it reduces wear, extends the service life and increases the reliability of the snowmobile under operating conditions. Lubricants must be of high quality and applied carefully.
During the operation of the Taiga snowmobile, certain problems may arise that are associated both with wear of parts and with violation of adjustments or maintenance rules. Any malfunction must be corrected in a timely manner so that more serious problems with the operation of the snowmobile are not caused.
Operation and repair
It is very important to promptly replace spare parts when they are no longer able to do their job. Tracks and skis should be replaced depending on wear and tear, preferably with original ones or others, but of excellent quality and purchased in stores that provide a guarantee on their products.
Suitable tracks and skis should be selected based on the material from which they are made. The original caterpillar costs 18 thousand rubles, the ski? about 5000 rubles. To replace them, you need to acquire special tools. Replacing the variator belt will cost 2,000 rubles. This is the type of work that you can do yourself. During operation, sometimes the temperature sensor breaks down, and since it costs about 6,000 rubles, some craftsmen install a sensor from a UAZ, but for this you will also have to change the dashboard.
Is it also necessary to change the oil on time? a canister of synthetic will cost 2,500 rubles. Approximate fuel consumption is 20 liters per 100 km. If you require expert assistance with snowmobile maintenance or repair, please contact your dealer.