Segment:
Early recreational snowmobiles, designed for utility and trail riding.
Competitors:
Polaris, Ski-Doo, Arctic Cat, Scorpion, Rupp.
Features:
Simple, robust design; two-stroke engine; track drive system; essential controls for operation.
Audience:
Owners of 1968 Johnson Skee-Horse snowmobiles seeking to understand operation and perform basic upkeep.
Engine Operation:
Start-up procedures, warm-up, operating limits, shutdown.
Fuel System:
Fuel type recommendations, fuel tank capacity, fueling procedures, basic fuel system checks.
Lubrication System:
Oil mixture ratios for two-stroke engine, lubrication points.
Ignition System:
Spark plug type and gap, basic ignition system checks.
Cooling System:
Air cooling principles, keeping cooling fins clear.
Drive System:
Chain drive lubrication and tension adjustment, clutch operation.
Braking System:
Brake lever operation, brake adjustment procedures.
Electrical System:
Headlight, taillight, and brake light operation, battery maintenance (if applicable).
Suspension System:
Skid frame and track system inspection.
Controls:
Handlebar controls, throttle, choke, kill switch operation.
Pre Operation Checks:
Daily inspection checklist.
Routine Maintenance:
Lubrication points, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Basic starting issues, engine performance problems, clutch engagement.
Storage Procedures:
Seasonal storage guidelines.
Safety Precautions:
Safe operating practices, protective gear recommendations.
Depth:
Owner-level maintenance and basic adjustments. Does not cover in-depth engine teardown or complex electrical diagnostics.
Type:
Two-Stroke, Air-Cooled
Displacement 1580A:
Approximately 14.3 cubic inches (234cc) - Based on common 1968 Johnson 15/18 HP engines.
Displacement 2080A 2085A:
Approximately 19.5 cubic inches (320cc) - Based on common 1968 Johnson 20/25 HP engines.
Horsepower 1580A:
15-18 HP (estimated)
Horsepower 2080A 2085A:
20-25 HP (estimated)
Torque:
Not specified in typical owner's manuals of this era, focus on usable power.
Carburetor:
Single carburetor, specific model varies by engine (e.g., Tillotson, Mikuni).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline with proper two-stroke oil mixture.
Length:
Variable by model, typically 70-80 inches.
Width:
Variable by model, typically 28-36 inches.
Height:
Variable by model, typically 30-36 inches to handlebars.
Dry Weight:
Approximately 250-350 lbs, depending on model and engine.
Track Width:
Approximately 15-20 inches.
Crash Ratings:
N/A - Snowmobiles of this era were not subject to standardized crash testing.
Kill Switch:
Engine kill switch located on handlebar.
Headlight:
Standard headlight for visibility.
Taillight Brake Light:
Standard taillight, often functions as brake light when activated.
Frame Protection:
Basic frame construction; no modern impact absorption systems.
Protective Gear:
Helmet, eye protection, warm clothing, gloves, boots.
Pre Ride Checks:
Daily/before each ride: check fuel level, oil mixture, lights, brakes, chain tension, track condition.
Spark Plug Replacement:
As needed, or every 50-100 hours of operation (estimated).
Chain Lubrication:
Every 10-15 hours of operation or after exposure to water/mud.
Clutch Cleaning:
Periodically (owner's manual might suggest visual inspection).
Carburetor Cleaning:
As needed, based on performance issues.
Two Stroke Oil:
Recommended: Specific 2-stroke snowmobile/outboard oil. Mix Ratio: Typically 20:1 or 24:1 (gasoline:oil) - verify specific model recommendation.
Chaincase Oil:
N/A - Open chain drive, requires external lubrication.
Grease Points:
Steering post, idler wheels (if applicable), suspension pivots (if applicable) – use general purpose grease.
Engine Starting:
Can be difficult if carburetor is fouled, ignition is weak, or fuel mixture is incorrect.
Carburetor Fouling:
Common with old fuel or incorrect oil mixture, leading to poor running.
Clutch Slippage:
Can occur if clutch weights or springs are worn, or if belt (if applicable, unlikely on this model) is damaged.
Track Tension:
Requires periodic adjustment to prevent excessive wear or slippage.
Ignition Coil Failure:
A common failure point on vintage ignition systems.
Brand Focus:
Johnson Motors was primarily known for outboard motors for boats.
Entry Into Powersports:
Johnson entered the snowmobile market in the mid-to-late 1960s.
Skee Horse Positioning:
Part of a wave of new snowmobile designs aiming for consumer recreational use.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (specific plant not detailed in owner's manual).
Production Period:
1968 model year, part of a few years of Johnson snowmobile production.