Our 2022 Year in Review
We can’t believe how fast the year blew past us. But we made it count.
Product Development
We’ve been working behind the scenes to make a childhood dream come true: a full-sized, remote-controlled amphibious ATV that is available to the public. Based on our experiences in military applications and a lifetime in the RC hobby, we created a user friendly system.
The RC setup can be installed in conjunction with our steering wheel, allowing for both manual operation inside the Mudd-Ox and remote operation. Having these two control options opens the door for a wide range of job site capabilities.
If only remote control is necessary, we can build the Mudd-Ox without an upper body as shown in the video below. Similar to our amphibious trailer design, we add framework around the lower body that adds extra support on the sidewalls. It both supports the lower body and adds mounting points for a customer to install their own parts on top. Examples include platforms, storage units, lights, etc.
An Expedition Special
Another dream come true was the opportunity to create a fully enclosed trailer for the Mudd-Ox. Based on our standard amphibious trailer, it features an aluminum cabin with front and rear doors, windows, rooftop storage, and two folding beds. This was designed as a shelter for camping and hauling equipment into extremely remote terrains.
With the additional of dual wheels, the weight of the trailer is displaced across a much larger footprint. It’s very stable in the water, and has a lower environmental impact as ground pressure is reduced.
New Model
For 2022, we added a new model to the Mudd-Ox lineup: The 57 HP Fort Mac. Our standard Fort Mac is powered by an 85 HP Ford engine. It’s very powerful, but the downside is lost rear cargo space as the engine cover extends into the seating area. It also requires a radiator and exhaust mounted on the roll bar.
Utilizing the same heavy duty hydrostatic drivetrain as the standard 85 HP Fort Mac, the 57 HP Kubota engine provides less horsepower but more passenger room. All components fit inside the engine compartment. There is no radiator or exhaust mounted to the roll bar either. Enjoy the extra cargo space without having to maintain drive chains.
History Close to Home
One of the biggest highlights for 2022 was the opportunity to interview a former employee of Starcraft. Widely known for camper manufacturing, Starcraft designed and built their own 6×6 ATV in 1971. Approximately 50 total units were produced in their Topeka, Indiana factory which is only 20 minutes away from our factory.
Craig Halsey was kind enough to stop by the Mudd-Ox factory and speak about his experiences working at Starcraft from approximately 1969-1974. He saw Starcraft 6×6 ATV production, racing, and even purchased a brand new one for himself.
