After a snowstorm, we are first on the trails before we even see the snow resurfacing machine. I can’t count the number of times my friends and I have been stuck in the snow with our snowmobiles. Not to mention the number of times we’ve helped other snowmobilers. One of the best methods to get out of trouble is to clear the front of the snowmobile and then pull on the skis while someone gently presses the accelerator. That’s precisely what the StuckMate is for. The StuckMate is a tool to control the throttle remotely and allow us to pull on a front ski of the snowmobile at the same time. Previously, a minimum of two people was required to do this. The advantage of the StuckMate is that you can now get out of this situation by yourself, although it is always easier when you are not alone. So, this is what this tool is all about.
First, let’s note the quality of the StuckMate, it’s beyond impeccable, and the instructions are well detailed. Besides, they’re plasticized, which is a good idea. The tool is made of plastic, only the metal cable attached to the handlebar is not protected, but the visible part of the cable is very short.
I suspect that the instructions may take longer to read than to install the StuckMate. Even the first time, the installation is intuitive and took me only a few minutes, including the time I took to get the tool out of its bag. The handlebar strap and the accelerator clip must be positioned appropriately to ensure that the metal cable is not too tight. It is essential to put the rope around your arm that is attached to the accelerator. If the accelerator remains engaged, the mechanism is designed to come apart. We need to test that the mechanism works well before starting the snowmobile and reposition the mechanism if necessary.
The joystick allowed me to operate the accelerator while I was pulling the ski. The system is straightforward to use and kept a good control of the snowmobile’s accelerator. I think this is important when you’re stuck because you don’t have to press the throttle hard to avoid getting stuck again. In some situations, with my windshield, I would have liked the cable to be just a little longer, especially when you must pull on the ski from the left side. It is important to make sure not to put the StuckMate back in the bag full of snow so that the metal cable does not rust. I also suggest drying it after use to ensure better longevity.
Since I was in a field, I took the time to test that the mechanism could remove itself if the accelerator ever remained engaged. The metal cable completely pulls out of the mechanism, and only the clip stays on the handle. It is very easy to put the wire back in the right position.
The StuckMate works well. It is safe when used correctly. In addition to being compact and lightweight, it is easy to store. A beautiful Canadian invention. This item is now part of my list of essential emergency equipment. It will certainly help me a lot this season. Thanks to Kimpex and SledMagazine.com for this test.
