That model is the Avenger, according to Argo product manager Bob Hunter. "There had been a five-year gap between models, so we used our customer questionnaire to create a database of features and functionality for the Avenger.

"What emerged was the desire for a new 8 x 8 (eight wheeler) to complement the Conquest model 8 x 8 introduced in the 1990s. They wanted greater ground clearance, more horsepower, bigger wheels, a quieter gearbox, cup holders, a larger dash handle to grip, and external drain plugs." Drain plugs had previously been accessed by lifting an internal panel.

Hunter noted that ergonomics were very much part of the Avenger design. "The model employs a one-piece steering assembly instead of the traditional two-level unit." Argo ATVs use a hydraulic brake scheme for steering and control; by braking one set of wheels the vehicle turns in the same direction (as the opposite set continue unchecked).

"The new Argo transmission was developed as part of the Avenger vehicle project," said Brian Cressman, R&D manager and Avenger project leader at OD&G. "Several goals were achieved by this development, including higher power capability, easier shifting and lower noise."

In order to achieve lower transmission noise, OD&G had to rethink its straight spur gear designs in favor of helical gears. (Success in this area has led some to notice more engine noise, so the iterative design process continues.)
According to Cressman, the Avenger's engine produces 25 hp at 3600 rpm and a maximum torque of 40 ft lb at 2200 rpm. A belt drive continuous variable transmission couples the engine to the transmission and has a ratio range of 3.5:1 to 0.8:1.

The two-speed transmission has gear ratios of 3.35:1 (high), 5.15:1 (low), and 5.45:1 (reverse). There is a further speed reduction in the final chain drive, of 4.58:1.

The Avenger features a 4-cycle overhead valve V-Twin liquid cooled 674 cc, Kohler Aegis LH 685 engine with electronic ignition, solenoid shift starter, fuel accelerator pump and full pressure lubrication. It uses regularunleaded gasoline, has low emissions and comes with a three-year warranty. Goodyear 25 in. Rawhide III tires have an aggressive tread pattern and lug size, and can achieve 4 km/h speed in water and 35 km/h on land. Towing capacity is 818 kg and seating capacity is 6 persons on land, 4 persons on water.

In addition, OD&G makes the Centaur line of commercial off-road vehicles for transporting people and equipment, as well as manufactures individual spur, helical, internal and worm gears in small to medium volumes from 1 to 16 in. diameters and 3 to 24DP.

The company also designs, manufactures and assembles spur, helical and worm gearboxes to customer requirements or specifications up to a 2-foot cube. To augment these capabilities, OD&G carries a wide range of KTR power transmission couplings (odg.couplingselection.com) to which it provides value-added services such as as customized bores and keyways.
Both new and repeat Argo customers have certainly embraced the Avenger. When it was introduced earlier this year, it quickly sold out production through the end of September, 2004.