Foot-Operated Snowmobile

In northern climates during the winter, snowmobiles are often used to perform tasks typically done, in warmer regions, by wheeled ATVs or other utility vehicles. Snowmobiles operate and steer similar to automatic ATVs— that is, the throttle is right-hand-operated with no gear shifting involved. Verndale, MN, farmer Alan Werk created a Foot-Operated Snowmobile, since he cannot use the hand throttle. He simply ran the throttle cable to a thumb-type lever that he mounted to the floor, then fastened a foot pedal to the floor such that it would contact and move the thumb throttle (see figure). With this modification, he is able to control the throttle with his foot.

Cost: $7.00

Impairment Category: Lower extremity, Upper extremity