northern manufacturing co

As is usually the case when researching a sled, I have conflicting stories.I have a letter from Northern stating that they produced the Ice Skeeterfrom 1960 through 1963 and possibly a short time into 1964. In still anotherletter I have been informed that Northern built the Ice Skeeter for SearsRoebuck to sell under their trade name of "David Bradley" in thelate 1950's. The first year that Sears sold the David Bradley they wereleft with an inventory of unsold units so they reduced their price to afigure under what Northern was selling them for so Northern quit manufacturingthe Ice Skeeter.

Now you have a choice as to which story you believe- bothcoming from the manufacturer. I have a parts list from November 1, 1960and the unit is referred to as an "Ice Skeeter." I am a bit hesitantto state the specifications but I will give it a shot.

The first units werepowered by a Clinton Panther engine of 2.5 hp, but due to the lack of powerthe engine of choice soon became the Kohler 4 cycle K91. Size was advertisedas 66.5 inches long, 30 inches wide and 23 inches high. Weight was 120 poundsand color was royal blue with light blue trim. The method of motivationwas a gear driven center drive wheel fitted with a chain for traction. Steeringwas accomplished by linking the steering wheel with a 12-inch steering vane.Steel runners and the vane were removable for sharpening. Fuel usage wasquoted as three pints of gas for each 1.5 hours of use. Can you imagineone of the options being a snow plow- with a 2.5 hp engine? Other optionswere listed as three sets of snow skis for $25 and a detachable jump seatfor around $10.