If you want the more upright seating position then the 2006 or newer, maybe the 2010 models are better at deep snow than the 2006 to 2009 RF models.
If you don't mind the older style seating position ... then the 1998 to 2005 Tundra II R is likely the best for lightweight and floatation.

 

I've had the 06 since new. You are right that the 07-09 are better sleds due to the track and clutching. John is right that the 98 -05 will be better in deep snow though not as comfortable or manurable. I've only had one ride on a 2010 sport. It's heavier for sure and I could feel it. I think it's 450 lbs while anything older is running 380 or less. I didn't ride it in deep snow. It does have the pogo front end and more power which should be better, but most of that extra wt is in the front as well.

Personally, I'd look for an 07-09 300. I know you don't want to mess with a track, but if you're mechanically inclined at all, a different track clutch springs and a different belt and it might even outperform the 07-09 300. COuld even be cheaper depending on you have into the sled and if you can find a used track (perhaps with a little taller paddles).

 

Thanks for the input.

Can you list the specific upgrades for the 2006 (exact track size, springs and belt)? Maybe we’ll look into that during the off season

one other question, is the older 98-05 tundra II R significantly better in powder, or just slightly?

 

Parts Unlimited 1095lmx belt
Ski Doo TRA 160-320 primary spring
CVtech 591-1007 Secondary spring.
This will get you better shifting and much less belt slip.
One caveat on the belt. While it is probably the best belt for the 06, it is just a touch long. Optimal would be to slot the 4 engine mounting holes so you can move the engine just a little forward (1/8-1/4 will be noticeable). As is, it still performs better than stock, last longer, and costs less.

The 07 and newer came with a 136x16x1.25. You might be able to find a used take off. I don't remember how much clearance there is for bigger paddles but go a little taller if you can. YOu would have to check how much clearance the paddles have to the tunnel at the drive sprockets.
The sled is over geared. If you replace the track, think about going 1 tooth smaller on the drivers. this gives you clearance for 1 3/4" paddles, better acceleration, and you won't lose any top end speed.

I can't say too much about the 2005 or older.Tundras as I spent little time on one. They are definitely less prone to getting stuck in deeper snow, but (in my opinion) not nearly as comfortable nor playful as the 06-09.

 

ok great thanks for the feedback. will consider all this info before making a decision

 

After thinking about it and doing some reading and watching multiple YouTube videos, I have the feeling the pogo front end suspension is what makes the difference. I am under the impression the RF front end creates too much drag as snow accumulates whereas the pogo style snow can more easily go under the belly pan. We'll likely get some wider ski skins for the 2006 Tundra to see if that improves the flotation but as a longer term solution I think the pogo suspension would be better. I'm thinking the 550F with pogo is the way to go.

 

Yes, I've seen pics here on dootalk where people put a plastic sheet from the front bumper to under the belly pan to prevent snow getting jammed up in the a arms.

 

Here's an update some folks may be interested in...
We just bought a 2011 Tundra 550F with pogos, and after comparing it to the 2006 Tundra 300F, I feel the 550F is much better suited for our needs in fresh powder to break trails. It has better traction, more flotation with less resistance where snow more easily moves under the belly pan and it has more power. After some thought, if my 83 year old dad gets either machine stuck, he's gunna need help so the added weight of the 550 isn't much of a factor for us. I'm not saying the 2006 300 is no good, it's just not as well suited for our needs.

 

Good choice! My dad is getting up there in age also. The tundra ace I got him never got stuck it just floated through everything.
Only issue is it was a little tippy for him.

 

If your 550F is an LT with the articulated skid, he won't need help to get it unstuck because they don't get stuck!

 

yes it is a bit tippy but manageable... we've ordered some 10" skins that may help... I also believe there's a widening kit option, we'll consider that for next year if needed

 

Hello,

I have not signed on for a while (5 broken vertebrae in my back slowed me down for a while) but know that my modified 06 Tundra will out-perform any stock 2009 Tundra or earlier - no contest. However, it took a lot of work to get it to that point (Steve surely knows with his Mod Tundra). The 06 when stock was useless compared to my 94 Tundra LT - very disappointing. Now that my 94 Tundra is modified it will outperform the modified 06 is some situations, but not all. It is definitely much easier to get unstuck - lighter and less drag. I have not had enough comparison with the 2010 and later Tundra's but feel based on a couple of experiences that it would be close. In very tight slow-going situations, I doubt it would be close (would give the nod to the mod 06 or 94) but can't say for sure.

The clutch and belt modifications to the 06 greatly help but easier to purchase a 06 that has already been modified or an 07-09. The 07-09 have a very good and reliable clutching system - excellent drive belt. The track on the 07-09 is 16" wide instead of 15" and has deeper lugs (Note that the 07 track will fit directly onto the 06). The 07-09 versus a Tundra LT with reverse is unknown as I have ridden both but not had a side x side comparison. The 06-09 Tundra's have a much stronger driveline than the older Tundra's but a weaker front-end (the pogos). I strongly suspect that the winner would be a 2005 Tundra LT with the superior deep powder front end and probably better in reverse. However, like Steve said the newer Tundra's are much more comfortable and very maneuverable - thus fun and smooth (no quieter though). I guarantee that the older Tundra is easier to get unstuck than 06+ Tundra's. Regardless of the specs the older Tundra's are lighter and the front end is much easier to drag sideways in deep snow when stuck. Anyway, I like both my Tundra 300s - always have a tough decision deciding which one to ride on any given day. The little singles are very reliable and with only one spark plug, etc., so simple!

Dan

 

Good to hear from you Dan. Hope the healing goes well.