[Nanook12]

Was wondering if anyone has installed silicon heat pads on these semi-dry sump engines, and what size/wattage? (I’m in Alaska)

Also was planning on putting the Foreman’s stock tires on the 08 Rancher, and buying some good snow-traction tires, any recommendations?

 

[shadetree]

other than chains on your tires or a snowmobile ?, I see prob's going around in Alaska..lol.

 

[Woodsruner]

I would imagine the size and wattage would depend on your anticipated conditions. I would contact the manufacturer of your choice of heating pads and use their thoughts on the subject. I have used a dipstick type heater, and found it less than acceptable, even in the much warmer environment here.

With the amount of snow you can potentially get, shadetree might well be right in his doubt on the usability of a Foreman in Alaska.
Here, we seldom get more than 10-12" at a whack, and I use ITP Mudlites XTR tires for plowing. They do a fair job, but when the snow is more than 10" or thereabouts, even they can get bogged down. Ground clearance is also a consideration, since high-centering can stop you no matter what tire is used. A definite consideration for Alaska.

 

[Nanook12]

Yeah just like anywhere, you wait too long to move the snow and the machinery needed grows larger. We get dry snow up here and is easy to push if you stay ahead of it. The oil heating issue is the dry sump doesn’t need as much heat as the oil in the bottom of the case. You will be heating quite a bit of metal to warm the case.

 

[wmgeorge]

Does it have to set outside? I can see a lean to next to your house where the top folds up just high enough to drive into, insulated even the top. Close it up and apply some heat and put a charger on the battery. Or take it into the house, what a conversation piece and it could used as a TV lounger. :|

 

[Nanook12]

Since the airplane is going into the heated shop for a rebuild, the 4wheeler goes into the unheated shelter. I installed two 100W heat pads on the bottom of the case, along with a 900W Little Buddy heater and a cover. Should only need a few hours of heat in the winter before plowing.