Mad Max, a 52-year-old Southwest plow truck, breaks down; could prevent holiday travel

Mad Max, the 52-year-old plow truck, scrapes a 25-mile trail from Kalskag to just above Tuluksak. (Photo by Mark Leary)
Mad Max, the 52-year-old plow truck, scrapes a 25-mile trail from Kalskag to just above Tuluksak. (Photo by Mark Leary)

Ice crews have plowed a 25-mile stretch of the Middle Kuskokwim from Kalskag downstream towards Tuluksak.

The remaining stretch to Tuluksak will most likely be completed after Christmas.

Mad Max, the crew’s 52-year-old plow truck, broke down Wednesday one mile above Edward Wise’s fish camp, after plowing just a few hundred feet that morning.

The harmonic balancer tore a hole in the timing gear cover, and parts have been ordered.

The delay could prevent people from traveling to see friends and family during the holiday.

KYUK - Bethel

KYUK is our partner station in Bethel. KTOO collaborates with partners across the state to cover important news and to share stories with our audiences.

Sign up for The Signal

Top Alaska stories delivered to your inbox every week

Site notifications
Update notification options
Subscribe to notifications