Snowmobile Storage Tips

As you rev up your snowmobile and feel the wind in your hair, it's easy to forget about preparing for storage once the season ends. However, properly storing your snowmobile is crucial for preserving its longevity and ensuring it's ready to ride when the snow returns.

Here's a guide for first-timers who need some tips.

Clean and Fuel Your Snowmobile

After a season of use, your snowmobile needs a good cleaning. Dirt and grime can corrode the frame and other parts if left sitting over time. So, use warm, soapy water to clean the hood, seat, tunnel, and nose pan. Once you're done, apply wax to keep dirt and debris off your sled while it's in storage.

It's also important to add fuel stabilizer to the tank. This prevents the gas from evaporating and going bad over the spring and summer months. Follow the directions on the fuel stabilizer and make sure it's evenly distributed. Run the engine for a bit so the mixture runs through the fuel line.

Fog the Engine

Fogging the engine is a critical step in preparing your snowmobile for storage. This process helps prevent corrosion by displacing moisture and adding extra lubricant. To do this, remove the airbox and foam to access the engine. Then, while the engine is running, spray fogging oil into each intake. Alternate from one cylinder to another for a minute or so while you continue to spray until all internal parts are oiled. You'll know you've properly fogged the engine when a foggy, white cloud exits the exhaust.

Lubricate Your Snowmobile

You'll want to ensure that all of your snowmobile's moving parts are well-lubricated in storage. Lubricate the fittings on both the steering and suspension systems, as well as other lube points as you would in the winter. While you're lubricating, you can also protect your chassis from corrosion by spraying down all the parts within reach with WD-40. This keeps moisture off the metal during the off-season. As fall rolls around and you prepare for snowmobile season, use a light degreaser to remove the lube from the chassis before you ride.

Store Your Snowmobile Wisely

Where and how you store your snowmobile is just as important as the preparation. An optimal storage setup will include your snowmobile being off the ground. Storing it on a seemingly dry floor can allow moisture to creep in, leading to corrosion.

The best way to lift your snowmobile off the ground is to jack up the rear end and unhook the springs to reduce the tension placed on the suspension and track lugs. Carefully place the front end on a wooden box or a milk crate so that the front suspension is hanging freely. If you're worried about rodents causing damage to your sled, toss some mothballs under the hood and on top of the tunnel. Place a soft cover over your sled and you're good to go!

Properly storing your snowmobile is essential to maintaining its longevity and ensuring it's ready to ride when the snow returns. Cleaning, fueling, fogging, lubricating, and storing your sled properly are all crucial steps to take before putting it away for the season. Following these guidelines will help prevent corrosion, protect your snowmobile's moving parts, and keep it in good condition until you're ready to hit the trails again. With a little effort and care, your snowmobile will be ready to go when the winter season arrives.