Guidelines for storing a snowmobile
A snowmobile can be a super exciting thing to drive. But what happens when you need to store your snowmobile for a season (or maybe even a month)? Master Moving Guide is here to give you some pro guidelines for storing a snowmobile. It takes time, but your snowmobile will be as good as new when you return to it.
Storing a snowmobile – where to start?
Snowmobiles have become increasingly popular in recent years. Driving this vehicle brings huge amounts of adrenaline and is sometimes a bit expensive, but a great way to spend a day in the snow. Riding sleds is basically simple, but some things are easier said than done. It is a recreation that requires concentration and quick reactions.
When it comes to storing a snowmobile, the first thing you need to do is know how to protect your snowmobile. With this, you need to be an expert in packing for storage. Once you learn how to do this, it’s important to start slowly. However, there’s one thing that people never do and it’s crucial for storing your snow vehicle. Read on carefully.
Read the manual. We repeat – read the manual!
This is a crucial thing when it comes to storing a snowmobile as most riders never read it. The manual will usually explain break-in procedures, gauge settings, and basic adjustments. Reading the manual can save you a lot of time, energy, nerves – and money – so find time to read it.
Clean your snow vehicle
Before you even start packing, you need to do some basic cleaning. So, get a dry cloth and clean all the dust and dirt that is visible. Then, use water and clean any stains, mud, or dirt.
There are a couple of things you can also do:
- Give it a scrub-down
- Clean your cover
- Use storage oil
- Keep the dust out of the air-box
- Don’t drain the tank
- Fill it with non-oxygenated fuel
- Stabilize the fuel
Remove the batteries
If you don’t know how to do this, you can watch tutorials online. If your snowmobile doesn’t have a battery, you can skip this step. In any case, there are different types of snowmobiles out there, so don’t get confused. When it comes to removing the battery, basically, you need to remove the rubber strap, then the cover, and then the batteries. As for your batteries, try to keep them in a clean and dry place and charge them at all times. With this, try to keep them at the constant, fully charged level.
Check for damage and corrosion
Always store your vehicle in a cool and dry environment. If you need to move your snow vehicle, you need to check for damage and corrosion. If you’re not sure how to move your snowmobile (or any bulky item for that matter), you can look up some of the moving FAQ. In any case, professional movers will have more expert skills to pack and move your snowmobile.
Remove the dry belt
If you leave the dry belt during storage, it can cause oxidation. To remove the dry belt, remove the belt and insert the service tool. Inspect your dry belt for damage. Of course, always keep it all cool and dry place. Then, inspect and drive your driven clutch for damage or anything unusual. You can take alcohol and scrub its surface to maintain it in storage.
Here are some of the next steps:
- Remove the spark cap so you can fog the machine. You can fog the machine in one of two ways. Spray the fogging solution in or spray the solution in and crank it over afterward.
- Dry the case oil that is in the machine.
- Loosen the track tension.
- The next step is to grease your snowmobile. You need to grease all zerk locations. Always refer to your user manual.
- Then you can spray anti-corrosion spray on your snowmobile. This will prevent corrosion on metal components or anywhere where rust can form.
- Store your sled off of the ground. This will keep tracks in better shape.
- Clean and polish your sled once more. This time, you’re not just going to clean, but also polish your sled vehicle.
- Use dryer sheets to keep mice away.
Make notes
You can write notes on the thing you did and the things you need to do once you ride your snow vehicle again. This will help you to remember what you need to go back to once you take your snowmobile out of storage. Of course, cover it with foil before putting it in storage. If you need to move your snowmobile, you need to check dorm room movers.
Starting the sled in the fall
Always start the sled engine five to ten minutes before driving once you start it again. Heating the machine before driving gives it a chance to lubricate and reach operating temperature. Put the transmission in neutral and start the engine while the sled is on a level surface, if possible. Then press the electric start button or pull the start rope, depending on the type of sled. If the engine does not start from the second attempt, turn the throttle by a quarter. When the engine starts, open the sag slightly and work with the gas until you get a stable idle operation. Remember, beginners should first ride on flat paved trails, and only when they gain experience can they embark on a hill ride through loose and deep snow.