Storing your Ski-Doo snowmobile for the summer is often a sad day for snowmobilers but taking the right steps in spring can make all the difference once the snow starts to fall next season.
SUMMER SNOWMOBILE STORAGE TIPS
Following the summer snowmobile storage checklist below will have it ready to ride when it’s time for the next hit of That Ski-Doo Feeling. Your local Ski-Doo dealer will also be more than happy to assist with the summer snowmobile storage process.
Key Areas of Snowmobile Summer Storage
1) Prevent corrosion inside and out
2) Protection from the sun and other elements
3) Fuel system and fuel treatment
Wash, Rinse, Shine
The first step in storing your snowmobile for the summer is giving your sled a thorough washing. It will remove any mud and road salt from those late season road crossings and trailering. Removing these contaminants will not only prevent any corrosion on metal parts, but also keep plastics and other finishes looking great. All you need is a bucket, water, sponge, and a quality thick foaming wash. Once clean, it’s also a good idea to add a protective layer such as XPS Quick Detailer that will continue to protect and repel dust and grime while your snowmobile is in storage.
Snowmobile Fuel system
One of the most important steps in the sled storage process is treating the fuel system and stabilizing the fuel left in the tank. Add the appropriate amount of fuel stabilizer, such as XPS Fuel Stabilizer to any remaining fuel in the tank and run your sled in a well ventilated area long enough to bring it up to operating temp and push the stabilized fuel mixture through the entire fuel system.
Ski-Doo 4-stroke Snowmobile Oil Changes
If you’re the owner of a Ski-Doo 4-stroke snowmobile, this is the perfect time to change your snowmobile’s oil, removing any dirt and particles before it sits all summer. If you’re the DIY-type, the XPS Oil Change Kit offered at your local Ski-Doo dealer makes it easy with everything you need all in one box. Your dealer can also perform this service if preferred.
If you’re performing the oil change yourself, you might want to check out our how-to oil change video here.
Ski-Doo Snowmobile E-TEC Summerization (2-stroke E-TEC engines)
This step is for sleds equipped with Rotax E-TEC 2-stroke engines only. Park your sled in a well-ventilated area near its final summer resting place. Running your sled through the E-TEC summerization mode automatically preps your sled’s engine for long term storage, and a successful start to the following season. The process is outlined in your owner’s manual (Found in the "Storage" section). You can also check out our how-to video on this automatic summarization process here.
Change the Chaincase Oil
For all Ski-Doo owners, now’s the time to refresh your chaincase oil. Take the old out and put in fresh oil so any moisture from winter use is eliminated and your chain and gears are coated with clean oil. XPS Synthetic Chaincase Oil found at your local Ski-Doo dealer is sold in the exact amount needed to refill your chaincase, so there’s no need to measure it out.
Lubricate Your Snowmobile Chassis
This is the one that gets missed! You’ve spent an entire season doing whatever it takes to get “That Ski-Doo Feeling” and your sled has absorbed every bump, drop, mogul and sidehill along the way. Your Ski-Doo snowmobile is outfitted with grease zerks to make this one of the easiest steps in the summer snowmobile storage process. Their locations are noted in your Operator’s Manual. A few pumps of XPS Synthetic Grease will remove any moisture that found its way into those moving joints over the season and prevent corrosion.
While performing this task take the opportunity to inspect all rear suspension component for wear or tear. Such as idler wheels and bearings, track and sliders, this way you can plan the replacement for next fall or do it a as summer project.
Snowmobile Storage Location
Ideally, you’ll want to store you snowmobile in a climate-controlled garage, however, anywhere that’s cool and dry will do just fine as long as it’s out of the sun. Over exposure to sunlight will slowly weaken and degrade the materials your sled is made of over time.
You’ll also want to consider raising your sled to lift the track and skis off the ground, so your suspension does not sit compressed for an extended period of time.
Finally, you’ll want to cover your snowmobile with a breathable cover. The Ski-Doo Ride On Cover works great for this as it’s custom made for protecting and storing your Ski-Doo snowmobile.
That’s it! You can enjoy your summer knowing your sled will be ready to go as soon as the snow flies next season.
