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600 HO durability

M
Jan 14, 2004
3,079
1,390
113
I've been looking for a sled for my son that he can afford himself LOL and have come across a few 05 and 06 600HO sleds. How many miles can a guy expect to get out of the 600 motor before it needs some attention. Also how much less power does it make than the 800? What's involved in making the 600 into an 800, new short block and electrics?


Thx M5
 
X
Jan 16, 2008
30
1
8
45
600 HO

I have an 06 600sdi 144" track. It's been absolutely bulletproof. The motor has about 7000 km on it and still has good compression. I'll probably rebuilt the top end after this season just to be safe. They make about 20 horsepower less than the 800's I think. It's noticeable in deep snow, you really have to keep on it. I would highly suggest looking for an sdi model over the previous carbed version. If you have any other questions let me know.
 
J

jasonrev

Well-known member
Jan 28, 2008
330
141
43
Burns Lake B.C.
In my opinion in terms of reliability and performance the 600 is the best engine doo makes. One that has some clutching and time will make a less than par 800 a little worried. My parents have two and each almost have 3000 miles and neither have been touched. Our local dealer had one in their shop that had 10000 kms and finally needed an overhaul. I personally think a 6 will be a great sled for you son. It would also be a good backup as well if your sled goes down. If you do get one I would recomend gearing it down to a46 or 47 bottom. I did a 46 to my dad's and it works well and he does'nt have belt troubles.
 
L
Aug 17, 2008
41
5
8
53
spokane wa
why waste your money

Have a 2004 600 myself I did a bb kit went to a 734 runs awesome IT is the same hp as the 800 ho moters I rebuilt the moter when doing that The moter had 6200 miles on it My sled used to be a rental sled So if looking for more power just bb it The 800 swap is a lot more money Trust me i compared both choices But it is a great sled to learn and have fun on
 

Wheel House Motorsports

Well-known member
Lifetime Membership
Nov 27, 2007
29,933
5,968
113
34
SW MT
Mine has the 700 jugs on it, but its still a 600 ho, It has right around 8k on it..

I burned down my bigbore on it 3 times, so I had put a remaned crank in it at like 5k as I figured it was good thing to do.. I just threw a new set of pistons in it last season as it was getting worn.. but these things are literally indestructable.. I beat the piss out of that sled and dont take care of it and it just keeps on ticking..

I havent even looked at hte clutch in the 4000 miles I have owned it for.
 
X
Jan 16, 2008
30
1
8
45
I actually just did a little preseason work on my machine and noticed it has not just over 7000km as I stated above, but it has 8700km! Still on the original top end. Pretty amazing powerplant.
 

BIG JOHN

Well-known member
Premium Member
Nov 26, 2007
1,953
1,146
113
Minnesoooota
The 600HO is a gem!...add SHR720HO top end and a 2.25 track and the 800 guys will wondering why that 600 just highmarked them!! BJ
 

BeeDoo

Well-known member
Premium Member
Feb 12, 2008
450
90
28
42
UT
I have an 06 600sdi 144" track. It's been absolutely bulletproof. The motor has about 7000 km on it and still has good compression. I'll probably rebuilt the top end after this season just to be safe. They make about 20 horsepower less than the 800's I think. It's noticeable in deep snow, you really have to keep on it. I would highly suggest looking for an sdi model over the previous carbed version. If you have any other questions let me know.

I have the same sled, just a 2007. It has also (knock on wood) been bulletproof, and it's great on gas and oil. I think they are only around 105-110hp depending on elevation.
That said, they have enough power and track (mine has 2 1/4 lug) to go just about anywhere.
And, IMO, they are the easiest sled to ride for many people.

Another option for a rather low price is the Ski Doo 500ss (actually 579cc). I put over 10,000 miles on one and it's still going. My brother put 8000 miles on one as well with minimal issues.
 
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