Off-Season Snowmobile Storage and Maintenance Tips

As the snow melts and winter gives way to warmer months, it's time for snowmobile enthusiasts to pack away their sleds for the off-season. Proper storage and maintenance are crucial for ensuring your snowmobile remains in top condition, ready to hit the trails when the snow returns.

At 2Brothers Powersports in Onalaska, WI, our team of experts is dedicated to helping you make the most of your snowmobiling experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share essential tips for storing your snowmobile during the off-season, along with maintenance advice to keep your machine running smoothly year after year.

Thorough Cleaning

Before storing your snowmobile, give it a thorough cleaning to remove dirt, grime, and salt residue. These elements can cause corrosion and damage to your machine if left unaddressed. Use a gentle detergent, soft brush, and water to clean the entire snowmobile, paying special attention to the suspension, tunnel, and track. Allow your snowmobile to dry completely before moving on to the next steps.

Engine Care

To protect your snowmobile's engine during storage, it's essential to address fuel, oil, and coolant. Start by adding fuel stabilizer to the gas tank and running the engine for a few minutes to ensure the stabilizer reaches the entire fuel system. This helps prevent gum and varnish buildup, which can clog the fuel system and cause issues when starting your snowmobile next season.

Next, change the engine oil and filter to remove contaminants that can cause engine wear. If your snowmobile is liquid-cooled, ensure the coolant levels are adequate and check for any leaks.

Finally, fog the engine cylinders by removing the spark plugs and spraying fogging oil into each cylinder. Pull the recoil starter or turn the engine over with the electric starter a few times to distribute the oil, then reinstall the spark plugs.

Draining the Carburetor

If your snowmobile has a carbureted engine, drain the fuel from the carburetor to prevent fuel residue from causing issues during storage. Consult your owner's manual for the proper procedure for your specific snowmobile model.

Lubrication

Lubricate all grease points on your snowmobile, such as suspension components, steering components, and any other moving parts. This will protect them from corrosion and ensure smooth operation when you take your snowmobile out next season.

Battery Maintenance

Remove the battery from your snowmobile and store it in a cool, dry place. Clean the battery terminals and use a trickle charger to maintain its charge throughout the off-season. This helps prevent the battery from losing capacity and ensures it's ready to go when you need it.

Track and Suspension

Loosen your snowmobile's track to reduce tension on the suspension components during storage. Check the track for any signs of wear or damage and make any necessary repairs or replacements. Inspect the suspension components for wear or damage as well, addressing any issues you find.

Protecting Against Moisture and Pests

To protect your snowmobile from moisture and pests during storage, seal any openings with plastic bags or tape. Cover the exhaust outlet, air intake, and any other openings where mice or other small animals could enter.

Cover and Storage Location

Invest in a high-quality snowmobile cover to protect your machine from dust, moisture, and UV damage. Choose a breathable cover to prevent condensation buildup, which can lead to corrosion.

Store your snowmobile in a dry, cool location away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations just like we do here at 2Brothers Powersports. If possible, elevate the snowmobile on a stand or blocks to take the weight off the suspension and track. This helps prevent flat spots on the track and reduces stress on the suspension components.

Final Inspection

Before putting your snowmobile away for the off-season, perform a final inspection to ensure all nuts, bolts, and fasteners are tight and secure. Make note of any parts that may need replacement or repair before the next snowmobile season and address these issues during the off-season to avoid delays when the snow returns.

Properly storing and maintaining your snowmobile during the off-season is crucial for preserving its performance, reliability, and longevity. By following these essential tips, you'll ensure your snowmobile is ready to hit the trails as soon as winter arrives.

Store Your Snowmobile With 2Brothers Powersports

At 2Brothers Powersports in Onalaska, WI, our knowledgeable team is committed to helping you get the most out of your snowmobiling experience. We offer a wide range of services, parts, and accessories to keep your snowmobile in top condition throughout the year.

If you need assistance or have any questions about off-season storage and maintenance, don't hesitate to visit our store or contact our experts. If you reserve snowmobile storage with us before April 15, 2023, you will get 25% off!

We're here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your snowmobile remains in peak condition for many seasons to come. Take the time to properly store and maintain your snowmobile during the off-season, and you'll be rewarded with a reliable, high-performing machine when the snow returns. Trust the experts at 2Brothers Powersports to help you keep your snowmobile in top shape, so you can focus on enjoying the thrill of the ride.