“We chose Vanguard engines because they provide the reliability and performance our customers need in unforgiving and demanding environments. Whether it's five miles out on a frozen lake or responding when seconds count, the power, efficiency and reliability of Vanguard engines ensure our vehicles can handle the toughest conditions.” - Tom Roering, CEO at Wilcraft
Vanguard® Delivers Power on the Ice
With the goal of making ice fishing easier, more mobile, and safer, Tom Roering, President of Wilcraft, started developing the Wilcraft in his garage in Mahtomedi, MN in 1998. What started as a personal project evolved into a prototype shown at a trade show, and then finally a finished product in 2006.
Wilcraft identified key challenges that many ice fishermen face and designed its amphibious ice fishing vehicle as a solution. It offers easy access to the ice, safe and reliable transportation across it, and the unique ability to fish directly through holes in the floor. Other features include retractable wheels and an insulated enclosure to provide convenience and comfort. Its amphibious design allows the vehicle to safely float on the water. The versatility of the unit also opens access to small lakes and ponds for open water fishermen and hunting applications. It even has been adopted by first responders as an ice rescue vehicle.
Staying true to their commitment of continuous improvement, Wilcraft designed a new model based on customer feedback that features a 6-inch wider design, independent front-end suspension for a smoother ride and overall enhanced performance. The Wilcraft team knew they needed to equip this unit with a more powerful and reliable power source. With the offering of an internal spline engine with high horsepower, they turned to Vanguard for a solution. The newly released model is equipped with the most powerful engine in the Vanguard lineup, the BIG BLOCK™ V-Twin Horizontal Shaft 40.0 Gross HP* EFI/ETC engine.
Featuring Vanguard’s Electronic Fuel Integration (EFI) and Electronic Throttle Control (ETC), this innovative engine delivers smooth, consistent power and performance for the most rugged applications in the most demanding environments. It was designed for products like the Wilcraft. Delivering more efficient fuel performance means more time on the ice, and less time in the shop.
A common commitment to quality and great customer experience powers this strong partnership. These values made the choice of Vanguard power easy. Vanguard continues to embrace new brands with applications benefitting from the combination of power, innovation and easy maintenance it provides.
To learn more about Wilcraft and their newest model powered by Vanguard, click here.
