Snowmobile storage tips

When it's time to put your snowmobile into storage for the summer, here are a few things you can do to help keep it in good condition. Remember to check your owner's manual for storage tips specific to your sled.

Things to consider before snowmobile storage

• Can you prep your sled for storage yourself or do you need to take it in for maintenance?
• Where will you store your snowmobile? Do you have a garage, storage shed or other location?
• How much are you willing to spend on snowmobile storage?

Snowmobile summer storage tips

• Make any necessary maintenance repairs.
  
• Clean, wax and oil your snowmobile to help prevent corrosion.
• There are two paths regarding fuel systems — drain the fuel tank, or fill the tank and add a fuel stabilizer. Consult your owner's manual for your manufacturer's recommendation.
• Fog the engine to help protect it from moisture. Check your owner's manual for the correct way to do this for your specific sled.
• After you fog the engine, you can drain the carburetors of excess fuel.
• Clean or replace the air filter.
• Remove the drive belt and lay it on a flat surface.
• Clean and lubricate the chassis with an all-temperature grease.
• Spray a lightweight oil on all-bare metal surfaces and add grease to all the zerk fittings.
• Cover all openings, like the exhaust, intake and cooling intake, to prevent moisture or critters from entering.
• If you remove the battery, store it in a cool, dry place safely away from children. Keeping it on a trickle charger will help maintain the battery.
• If recommended by your manufacturer, loosen track tension or remove completely.
• Store your snowmobile in a dry location. You may want to consider a snowmobile storage lift to keep your sled off the ground.
• Cover your snowmobile with a clean and breathable cloth.

Alternative snowmobile storage ideas

While the list above is solid advice for prepping your sled for summer storage, there are a couple of alternatives from caproskis.net. But as always, consult your owner's manual or talk to your dealer for the best choice for your sled.

• Should you start your snowmobile in the summer? You may consider starting your sled for two or three minutes once a month. This can help keep crucial cooling areas free of sediment and the engine seals from drying out.
• Should you fog your snowmobile engine? If you park your sled in April and don't touch it again until November, fogging the engine may be a good idea. If you start your sled once a month as mentioned above, fogging might not be as important. Consult your owner's manual on how to fog your snowmobile's engine, if needed.

Before you take your snowmobile out of storage and onto the trails again, be sure to talk with your insurance agent and make sure you have the appropriate amount of snowmobile insurance for your needs.