Historical Context:
Sno-Jet was a significant player in the early snowmobile industry, known for its performance-oriented sleds. The Thunder Jet model line was a popular offering during the peak of the snowmobile boom in the early to mid-1970s.
Competitors:
Competed with manufacturers like Ski-Doo, Arctic Cat, Polaris, and Yamaha during this era. Sno-Jet models were often distinguished by their design and performance characteristics.
Manual Benefit:
Essential resource for owners and mechanics to accurately identify, source, and order correct replacement parts for 1973-1974 Sno-Jet Thunder Jet snowmobiles, ensuring proper repairs and maintenance.
Special Emphasis:
The product description highlights a 'special engine section,' indicating a particularly detailed focus on engine components, which are critical for snowmobile performance and reliability.
Engine Systems:
Detailed parts breakdown for engine components, including carburetor(s), ignition system, cooling system (if applicable), exhaust system, and internal engine parts (pistons, crankshaft, etc.). Specific engine models used by Sno-Jet during this period likely included JLO or Rotax two-stroke engines. Manual will identify specific part numbers for these.
Chassis And Body:
Parts for the snowmobile chassis, including frame components, suspension parts (bogies, skis, shocks), body panels, seat, handle bars, and controls.
Drivetrain:
Parts for the drive system, including clutch (primary and secondary), drive chain/belt, track, and related components.
Fuel System:
Parts for the fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if equipped), and carburetor specific components.
Electrical System:
Parts for the lighting system, ignition coil, magneto, and other electrical components. Diagrams may illustrate wiring harnesses and connections.
Part Identification:
Identification of all replaceable parts with corresponding part numbers for ordering and replacement.
Assembly Disassembly:
Illustrations and diagrams showing how components are assembled and disassembled, facilitating repair and replacement of parts.
Component Lookup:
Detailed exploded views of major assemblies to aid in locating specific components and understanding their relationship.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive parts catalog detailing all available OEM and potentially aftermarket replacement parts. Focuses on identification and procurement of parts for repairs and maintenance.
Engine Type:
Two-stroke, gasoline
Common Engine Manufacturers:
Likely JLO or Rotax, popular suppliers for snowmobile engines in this period. The manual will specify the exact engine models and configurations.
Displacement Range:
Typically ranged from 247cc to 440cc for performance-oriented models like the Thunder Jet. Specific displacement will vary by model variant.
Horsepower Range:
Estimated 20-40 HP, depending on engine size and tuning. Manual will detail specific engine variants.
Carburetor Type:
Single or dual carburetors, often Mikuni or Tillotson. Manual will list specific part numbers for carburetor components and kits.
Fuel Type:
Leaded gasoline (premium unleaded likely not readily available or specified) mixed with two-stroke oil.
Length:
Varies by specific Thunder Jet model, typically in the 80-90 inch range for early 70s sleds.
Width:
Varies, typically 30-36 inches.
Height:
Varies, typically 35-40 inches.
Dry Weight:
Typically in the 300-400 lb range, depending on engine and features.
Safety Standards:
No formal safety ratings (like NHTSA crash tests) as common today. Safety was based on design and operator responsibility. Manual will cover safety-related components like kill switches and reflectors.
Engine Stop Switch:
Essential safety feature for immediate engine shutdown. Manual will show part number for the switch and its location.
Track And Suspension:
Components contributing to stability and control. Manual details parts for bogie wheel assemblies, suspension arms, and track linkage.
Infotainment System:
N/A (Snowmobiles of this era did not feature infotainment systems in the modern sense).
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (No electronic driver assistance features were present).
Connectivity Options:
N/A (No connectivity options).
Clutch Inspection:
Regular inspection of primary and secondary clutches for belt wear, spring integrity, and roller/button condition is critical. Manual will detail parts for clutch maintenance.
Engine Tune Up:
Recommended periodic checks of spark plugs, carburetor adjustments, and ignition timing (if applicable). Manual provides part numbers for ignition components and carburetor rebuild kits.
Two Stroke Oil:
Specific two-stroke oil ratio for fuel/oil mixture is critical. Manual will advise on the correct oil type and mixing ratio recommended by Sno-Jet for the era.
Grease Points:
Lubrication points for suspension, steering, and drive components. Manual may indicate specific grease types if critical.
Engine Overheating:
Can occur due to faulty cooling systems (fan or liquid-cooled) or lean fuel mixtures. Manual helps identify cooling system parts.
Clutch Slippage:
Caused by worn belts, weak clutch springs, or improper sheave condition. Manual is essential for clutch component replacement.
Carburetor Issues:
Common with age, leading to poor running conditions. Manual provides diagrams and part numbers for carburetor rebuilds.
Snojet Legacy:
Sno-Jet, a brand of a Canadian motorcycle manufacturer (Ski-Doo's predecessor), was known for its innovative and powerful snowmobiles. The brand evolved and was eventually absorbed into other entities within the Powersports industry.
Thunder Jet Line:
The Thunder Jet represented Sno-Jet's commitment to performance and racing, often featuring larger engines and more robust suspension systems compared to utility models. It was a key model in their lineup during the early 1970s.
Production Period:
1973-1974 model years are covered by this manual.
Manufacturing Origin:
Likely manufactured in Canada, consistent with Sno-Jet's historical production base.
