Polaris Scout

Polaris 1961 B-55 Sno Traveler
"Scout"
On loan from Wayne Campbell
Millinocket, Maine

     This sled, the Polaris Scout, is one of only three prototypes built by Polaris Industries in the fall of 1960 and is believed to be the only one still in existence. This was Polaris' first attempt at putting the drivers weight on the track for traction rather than on the front end and wooden side skis as they had previously done. This machine was brought here from Roseau, Minnesota for the first trip into the Allagash for testing. It was the lightest, quickest machine on the trip and it performed well in the snow. It was used to go ahead and find slush or even the right routes. This is probably where it got the name "Scout". The only trouble it had was carburetor ice from the lack of a carb heater. The "B" in its model designation stood for Briggs and Stratton and the 55 stood for 5.5 horsepower. The model that was produced from this was the L-55 or Lauson 5.5, and was highly successful. It had a carburetor heater.

     This machine was found in a garage about several years ago and restored to its present condition by Mr. Campbell.