Jekyll
Oct 27 2006, 01:58 PM
After much thought I've decided to sell my 1978 Polaris RX-L. Sled is currently listed on eBay under item # 170041895776.
Thanks for the space.
Later,
Roger
Jekyll
Nov 6 2006, 09:23 PM
1978 Polaris RX-L Sno Pro snowmobile. Sled is in complete running condition. Only about 125 of these machines were produced by Polaris for racing purposes only.
This RX-L has its race history here in Michigan on the (currently MIRA) enduro circuit. There have been past and present modifications for the rigors of this type of competition including: heavy duty radiator mount (it looks very similar to the original but is much stronger) and choke mounted on handle bars. Sled has also had holes drilled in tunnel where in the past TX-L style heat exchangers were mounted (these units were removed prior to my purchase). Belt guard decal shows evidence of past coolant hose "rub".
I have been the owner of this sled since 1995 and have documented it's past owners (I'm number 3) and it's race history. This sled finished 3rd in the 1978 Thunder Bay 250 Enduro (Alpena, MI) and 3rd in that same years Traverse City 250 and according to magazine articles at the time, it led during both races.
Chassis:
Front Suspension. This particular sled still has the original three long, one short style front radius rod set-up. Original unequal (lbg and rate) front coil springs are still installed. Radius rod heim-joints have been replaced due to age. Steering rods have been replaced with thicker units but originals will be included. Trailing arms were repainted about 10 years ago and have new heim-joints installed.
Handle Bars. Bars are original style with a 1976ish Starfire loop added. It appears the only alteration from original is the addition of the choke lever. Lower bearing has been replaced because of wear.
Skis. Skis are original and in awesome condition. Factory loops were replaced with stronger units back in this sleds racing days. Carbide runners are installed and are included.
Rear Suspension and Track. Rear suspension appears to be in good working order although I have never removed it from the sled. Track is cleated type and appears to be in great shape considering it's age. Track cleats appear to be made from a metal alloy as they have not rusted over the years.
Tunnel, Bulkhead and Driveline. Tunnel is very straight with typical scratching. Rear decals show some wear from years of polishing. Bulkhead has evidence of repairs in front of chain case, about what you would expect of a former race sled. Chain case and brake are in good working order. Case looks rather tarnished and pitted, I don't know if it is magnesium or not, it's possible there was exposure to something many years ago that now contributes to its appearance. Torque converter is from a early 90's Polaris Indy 650. I'm not sure where original is located as I switched it years ago and lost track of it amongst my collection.
Body:
Hood. Hood is in AWSOME original condition with expected stress cracks and scratches. Original "Midnight Blue" shines up perfectly. Original decals are pretty darn nice but do have some blems and chips from 28 years racing and showing. Hood does have a crack on bottom front near radiator grill opening and this is visible in the photo.
Seat. This seat in fantastic shape with ZERO cracks or tears. There are a couple of small blems (each smaller in diameter than a pencil). There is some slight rusting of rear seat snaps, side snaps are great.
Engine:
Engine is original mono-block style 340cc Fuji unit that came with these sleds. Most all of these sleds got the updated Centurion style individual cylinders and this has always been kind of cool to me. Engine has been well cared for and runs great (had it running today). Power plant comes with 38mm carbs and original un-cut pipes. Polaris factory quick change (removable head) clutch is in excellent operating condition. Factory 8 volt lighting coil went bad and was removed but is included with sled (this sled currently does not have a lighting coil installed). Mechanical tach is correct and complete however gear drive is wrong ratio (but is correct in appearance) so drive key is NOT installed. Sled had incorrect SW style temp gauge installed.
In closing I'd like to say it's been a difficult decision to sell this sled, I've loved being it's owner and I'm hoping the new owner enjoys it as much as I have. Although my selling price is quite high I can assure one and all that this sled is genuinely for sale and I'm NOT on a fishing expedition to determine what it might be worth. My time is far to valuable as I'm sure yours is also.
Asking price is $18,500.00
Roger Jordan
(269)468-7701 home
(269)757-2309 cell
wfocatman
Nov 12 2006, 06:46 AM
very nice looking sled.. :beerchug: