new machine 8x8

[plastikosmd]

Well, I sold the Quadractor. While that could go through nearly everything, I wanted something with a bit more power, could float and would be more fun in the winter. I got a Argo 8x8. This has a 31hp fuel injected motor ( all pictures are from web, mine is still being built but is is just like the green one below)
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j5/plastikosmd/AVEFI-main.jpg
I outfitted it with 18.5 inch tracks, windshield/cab/winch/heater/bildge pump etc, it will look similar to below
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j5/plastikosmd/Avenger-loaded.jpg
If I decide to fish with it, I probably will go with a small electric trolling motor to assist with any water transit. I went with a bigger altenator and could just add a second battery. A gasser is always an option
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j5/plastikosmd/ARGO-hunting-15.jpg

It should be fun, dont think I will be taking it over any 'sweet jumps' but it should get me anywhere including stuck

[Dirtcrasher]

That thing is NASTY!! :D

Roll out the woods and into the swamp; I want to be in on one of those rides!! :beer

[plastikosmd]

Ya, amen. I wanna try ice fishing with it this year. There are some cool videos I will link to when I find them

[atc007]

Congratulations on purchasing that bad boy!! Nice ride for sure,,someday I'll try one of them out too !!!

[plastikosmd]

Similar machine in swamp
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PsUod-kv9HU&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Quick turn in low, nearly zero turn in low gear
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDzd4_uT9uI&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Pullin a load
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M79m7ovQDmM&feature=youtube_gdata_player

[fabiodriven]

OK man, we've driven past each other before, but we've yet to meet in person. I think it's about time to change that.

That thing is the nuts! I'm guessing you gotta be shelling out about 18k for that beast! (Don't feel obligated to answer that)

[plastikosmd]

yes, you need to stop by! I think I am only a couple miles from where u work. I will let you know when I have it. It was not cheap but I saved a couple of years and sold some stuff for it. The 750 base is around 20k I think. Once I got it set up the dealer knocked 20 percent off the price so I was happy.

[plastikosmd]

Well it it sure is fun, big red and allis tractor shown for size comparison
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j5/plastikosmd/ab57d585.jpg
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j5/plastikosmd/8732f22f.jpg
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j5/plastikosmd/0baffa2f.jpg
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j5/plastikosmd/1567005a.jpg

[atc007]

Bad ASS !!!

[Dirtcrasher]

He's a full out junky when home and a professional when at work!! :D

[plastikosmd]

yep! junker at heart

[Big Mike]

Love that TRUCK!!! Nice Argo too, I would definetly love to see that in person and go for a ride. Awesome man!!!

[swampthang]

Thats BadA$$!! My neighbor has a camo 8x8 that he uses in the flood waters. I think his might even be Diesel. I've always wanted one but alot of the older guys around here had them when they first came out and said they was a PITA to keep the chains tight and bearings and seals in. I've also heard horror stories of guys busting a hole in the tubs on stumps. Never the less i still want to own one at some point in my life. I've been looking on CL at them and I usually see alot of 6x6 models listed for around $3000. I have seen some early 70's models with 2 stroke engines pop up for less thought.

[JasonB]

that thing is freaking nuts! I didnt know they still made 6 and 8 wheeled amphibious products these days. Those tracks make that thing amazing looking! I dont even know what else to say about that thing, other than can i drive it :D

[kb0nly]

That would be awesome in the winter time with the tracks.

[plastikosmd]

there seem to be 2 basic drive systems. the chain drive and full hydraulic. The hydraulic are nice with the instant change of direction/reverse etc. Some are diesel. I did look into those but they are much more expensive, heavy (many have sinking issues) and there is no dealer support. Argo and Max have been around a long time and these use a chain system. The current tranny in my model simulates a hydro to some degree. It will do a zero turn without issue. It is effortless to drive, handlebars just like an ATC, just point it and go over anything. The tranny is shifting/locking once side, sending power or braking one side as you turn. Turn harder, more power to the outside, slowing or stopping (or reverse in low range) the opposite side. The chain and bearings and care of them is quite easy now. Much easier to trouble shoot then the multiple lines/wheel motors, hydro pump etc for me. As far as holes, mine has a skid plate and the tracks make the thing unstoppable. with really basic care (grease the bearings and lube the chain) these things stand up to a ton of abuse, these newer machines are not your 70-2005 machine and have nearly all the same features as my truck (along with price.) If u are around RI u are welcome to give it a spin

[swampthang]

What kind of tires do you have on it? I seen that Interco has came out with a tire that would work great on a amphibious vehicle... or the back of a Big Red:lol: http://www.intercotire.com/tires.php?id=55&g=3

[Scootertrash]

I've seen these before, but not like yours. Very Cool!!

[plastikosmd]

the amphip tires are not quite as aggressive as those. I cant remember the brand, they may be direct from Argo. You need traction but not so much that when you zero turn you dont dig and scuff so much yet enough cleat that they will swim. The tracks are made out of HDPE (plastic.) They are quite light and dont scuff on hard surfaces like rubber. They swim better than rubber and give good flotation on snow (18.5") wide. The only downside is travel up and over wet rocks that have no grip or ledge or on a steel deck trailer ramp that is wet. I could screw in some studs if needed but this thing goes over stumps and logs and creeks like they are not there