The snowmobiles chosen for the ride are a pair of:
1973 John Deere 400s
Roger’s Machine:
This 1973 John Deere 400 snowmobile is the the one that started the family’s passion for John Deere and other vintage snowmobiles. Roger bought it on Mar. 1st, 1986 with 700 miles on it for $300. Parts to keep it going came from Roger’s late brother Paul, who worked as a parts man at Langdon Implement in Langdon, ND. This machine has been enjoyed by Roger and his wife Bernice, as well as Wyatt, Wyatt’s sister, five grand kids, and many others that have enjoyed rides.
Prior to the I-500 Challenge Ride, it has 3,500 miles on it.
Wyatt’s Machine:
This 1973 John Deere 400 was built just for this ride by Wyatt and Roger. They chose two of the same machines to simplify repairs and the spare parts on hand during the ride. The building of this machine began in early 2020. The chassis had 850 miles on it before the rebuild. A motor with 1,700 miles on it was chosen for the power plant.
Both of these 400’s are stock with the exception of more reliable carburetors and clutches, and the addition of heated hand warmers.
Some modifications are in the works just for the I-500 ride to make the machines easier to work on.