Engineering:Scat Tracker
The Scat Tracker is a small offroad trike made by Penney's in the 70s. It has a rear-engine configuration, which gives it a very low center of gravity, making it fairly difficult to flip. They were powered by a 5 horsepower (3.7 kW) Briggs and Stratton gokart engine, through a Torque Converter and differential. The design is similar to the rear of a go-kart welded to the front of a minibike
Features
This trike uses dual, independently controlled, band brakes. These have a band that contract around a drum to stop the vehicle. They take a bit of force on the brake levers, but they can lock the wheels up on lower traction conditions, and are quite effective at stopping. The brakes can be used to help steer in fresh snow, or other conditions where the front wheel will hydroplane instead of steering. It is very difficult to use the right brake and throttle at the same time.
The rear fenders and seat are molded into one fiberglass piece. The seat has a thin foam padded cover that snaps onto the seat for minimal comfort. It is not difficult to make a better, more comfortable seat cover, but attaching the snaps is, and it works well to not secure it at all.
There is a minimal suspension. The front forks have springs on them and move a few inches, and easily get stuck. There is no rear suspension, which causes a rough ride. This however usually does not detract significantly from the recreational fun of going offroading on a Scat Tracker.
Specifications
- Engine: 5 horsepower (3.7 kW) Briggs & Stratton, standard gokart engine.
- Drivetrain: Torque converter, driven to differential through 40 pitch chain.
- Differential: Pearless 100 series. Exact model will be added later.
- Torque Converter: Stock torque converter make/model is unknown at this time.
- Tires:
- Rear: 21x11x8, ATV knobby
- Front: Will add size later, Gokart knobby
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