How to Store a Snowmobile: Tips for Winterizing and Safekeeping

Introduction to Snowmobile Storage
As the winter months approach, it's time to start thinking about putting away your snowmobile until next season. Proper storage is essential to keeping your sled in top condition and avoiding costly repairs down the road. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps of winterizing and storing your snowmobile for the off-season, so it's ready to hit the trails when the snow flies again.
Winterizing Your Snowmobile
Before you store your snowmobile, it's important to winterize it properly to prevent any damage to the engine or other components during the off-season. Here are the steps you should take to winterize your sled:

  1. Drain the fuel: Stale gas can clog up your snowmobile's fuel system and cause serious damage. Add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank, then run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the stabilizer throughout the system. Finally, drain the gas tank and carburetor to remove any remaining fuel.
  2. Change the oil: Old oil can break down over time and lead to engine damage. Change the oil and filter before storing your snowmobile to ensure clean lubrication during the off-season.
  3. Lubricate moving parts: Grease all of the fittings and bearings on your snowmobile to keep them lubricated and prevent rust or corrosion.
  4. Check and replace the spark plugs: Worn or dirty spark plugs can cause misfires and other engine problems. Check the spark plugs and replace any that are worn or fouled.
  5. Remove the battery: Disconnect the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Check the battery's charge periodically throughout the off-season to ensure it stays charged.
  6. Protect the body: Clean and wax the body of your snowmobile to protect it from dirt, dust, and moisture. Cover the snowmobile with a breathable cover to keep it clean and dry during storage.

Storing Your Snowmobile
Once you've winterized your snowmobile, it's time to store it properly. Here are some tips for safe and secure snowmobile storage:

  1. Find a dry, cool place to store your snowmobile: A climate-controlled storage unit is ideal for keeping your snowmobile safe and dry during the off-season. If you don't have access to a storage unit, store your sled in a garage or other dry, protected area.
  2. Lift your snowmobile off the ground: Use a snowmobile stand or lift to raise your sled off the ground and prevent flat spots from developing on the tires. This will also keep the suspension from compressing during storage.
  3. Keep the track off the ground: If you're storing your snowmobile for an extended period, use a track stand to keep the track off the ground and prevent flat spots.
  4. Keep the cover on: Cover your snowmobile with a breathable cover to protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture. Make sure the cover is securely fastened to prevent it from blowing off.
  5. Check on your snowmobile regularly: Check on your snowmobile periodically throughout the off-season to make sure it's still in good condition. Check the battery charge, oil level, and other components to ensure everything is in working order.

Proper snowmobile storage is crucial to ensure that your machine stays in good condition during the off-season. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can protect your snowmobile from damage caused by extreme temperatures, moisture, and pests. Remember to prepare your snowmobile for storage well in advance, use a high-quality cover, and choose a storage location that is dry, clean, and secure. By taking these steps, you'll be able to enjoy your snowmobile for years to come, and avoid the expense and hassle of unnecessary repairs.
The advice on this website is provided as a courtesy for informational purposes only.