hustler and rustler
Amsnow
Historically the Hustler-Rustler snowmobile had a very short life span. It was built only from 1967 to 1970. The design was from Motrak U.S.A. but was purchased by Kelvin Thompson Company which became Allied Manufacturing Company of St. Marys, Ontario. Sleds were distributed across Canada and into several states including Alaska.
The Hustler was the more recognizable of the two sleds. It featured a roll bar which was actually part of the windshield frame. The windshield was a whopper, extending all the way down the hood to a point where the headlamps were mounted. Twin headlamps were standard on the Hustler while the Rustler had one. Both sleds had a "fastback" rear compartment which stored the gas tank as well as the tool kit and "provisions." Personally, I don't especially care for my hot dogs to be stored next to the gas tank. Both sleds featured a "kickstand" to allow for safe warm-ups and overnight storage with the track off the ground. One other option that didn't work so well was a motorcycle-type throttle control. This "twist grip" control proved awkward to operate and not many sleds were sold.
Dear Mr. Knapp,
Thank you for your story on the motor toboggans that my father, Peter Leschasin built in the early days of snowmobiling (American Snowmobiler Spring, 2000). It has been 30 years since I last rode one of those models, having been one of the "company's test drivers." Did you take the information from one of his product brochures?
He built his first one in 1958 and sold nine in all, as far north-east as Battle Harbour, Labrador, Canada and as far west as Revelstoke, B.C. Customers were trappers and farmers. The designs were his own. He manufactured them in his farm workshop, assisted first by a friend, and then by a nephew. I remember the Challenger on a run in the early 1960s crossing deep snowbanks where his friends' Ski-Doos became stuck.
My father died in 1994 at age 75. I know that seeing his creations recognized in your magazine would have made him very proud. My mother, Mrs. Mildred Leschasin, still resides in Rossburn. On behalf of our family, please accept our appreciation for your article.
Sincerely,
Rod Leschasin
Winnipeg, Manitoba