About TFT Sno Trac, LLC
For TFT Sno Trac, LLC, a startup based in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, bringing a classic Swedish snowcat back to life meant more than recreating a vintage machine. Their goal was to preserve the heritage of the original snowcat design while delivering the performance, efficiency and reliability expected from modern equipment. Achieving that balance required an engine partner capable of meeting demanding cold weather, high altitude and emissions requirements.
Meeting the Challenge
Snowcats operate in some of the harshest conditions of any off-road vehicle. They must climb steep grades, push through deep snow, start reliably in subzero temperatures and run for long hours far from service support. Modernizing a classic snowcat meant achieving all of that with improved efficiency, better emissions performance and a more compact, serviceable power package.
“The D1803CRT offered the right combination of compact size and turbocharged performance for our high altitude and cold weather needs,” said Mason McLeish, Production Manager. “We did have some airflow and exhaust challenges to work through to meet our performance expectations and EPA compliance, but the engine gave us a strong foundation to build on.”
The Kubota D1803 common rail turbo diesel delivered the torque, cold weather stability and consistent output required for a machine designed to work in remote, high-altitude environments. It provided a reliable foundation for Sno Trac’s updated chassis while preserving the capability that made the original snowcat design so enduring.
Why Kubota
While the D1803CRT met Sno Trac’s performance requirements, the deciding factor was the strength of the partnership behind it. As a startup modernizing a complex machine, Sno Trac needed reliable guidance through every stage of integration, certification and early production. Anderson Industrial Engines Co. (AIE), Sno Trac’s regional Kubota Engine distributor, provided that support from the very beginning.
“Our sales rep, Rick Veenstra, was instrumental in helping us specify the right engine and accessories to fit our chassis,” said McLeish. “AIE stepped in with practical, knowledgeable support whenever we needed it, and that made a huge difference for a small team like ours.”
AIE supplied CAD models, technical resources and quick answers to engineering questions, helping Sno Trac streamline its design process and move confidently into prototyping. Combined with Kubota’s reputation for reliable, long-lasting engines and a dependable service network, the partnership gave Sno Trac exactly what it needed to bring a modern snowcat to market.
Integration Made Easy
Integrating the D1803CRT into the Sno Trac chassis was a smooth and efficient process, supported throughout by AIE’s engineering expertise. With full CAD models provided by AIE, Sno Trac was able to design the powertrain into the chassis long before the first physical installation. When the prototype engine package arrived, the fit required minimal adjustments and moved quickly through validation.
Certification was equally straightforward, requiring only two minor modifications before approval. The combination of Kubota’s well-supported engine platform and AIE’s technical guidance allowed Sno Trac to transition confidently from design to production without unnecessary delays.
Performance That Stands Out
Since Sno Trac began building machines powered by the Kubota D1803, reliability in the field has been exceptional.
“We have had very few issues with the units we have made so far,” McLeish said. “The engine has been compact, powerful and extremely dependable. It is exactly what our customers expect in the field.”
Operators benefit from:
- Strong low-end torque for challenging terrain
- Reliable cold weather starts
- Smooth, efficient power delivery
- Minimal maintenance requirements
For a snow machine designed to perform in remote and unforgiving environments, dependable engine performance is essential.
A Partnership That Makes the Difference
AIE and sales representative Rick Veenstra have played a central role in Sno Trac’s success. Their responsiveness, attention to detail and proactive support have helped Sno Trac maintain steady progress through development, production and ongoing operations.
Among Sno Trac’s many vendors, AIE stands out for reliability and ease of collaboration. Even when challenges arise, such as occasional shipping damage during transport, AIE resolves issues quickly. Their understanding of Sno Trac’s market and engineering needs has made them a trusted long-term partner.
Looking Ahead
As Sno Trac considers expanding its product line, Kubota will remain central to their plans.
“We currently only offer one machine, but if we decide to build others, Kubota will be the first engine we look at,” McLeish said. “Choosing Kubota was the right choice, and our experience with both the engines and AIE has been excellent.”
Together, TFT Sno Trac, Kubota Engine America and AIE are powering a new generation of snow machines built for performance, dependability and the modern demands of snowbound terrain.
