As winter ends, many snowmobile owners tend to store their vehicles in their backyards, neglecting them until the next winter season. Given the high cost of ATV Snowmobiles, protecting them from the elements is crucial. Failing to do so may lead to issues such as cracked hoses, rust, and corrosion.
You should take the proper steps when putting it away for the summer so it’s ready to go when the snow flies again. You want it to stay in great shape for many years to come. You can avoid damage and many headaches by spending a few hours to store your vehicle for the summer.
Before doing any maintenance on any vehicle, always look through your user’s manual first.
Here are some simple tips for storing your snowmobile or recreational vehicle properly at the end of the season.
1. Treat The Fuel
2. Grease The Chassis
3. Protect The Metal
4. Clean Every Part
5. Remove The Battery
6. Store Properly
7. Invest In A Storage Unit Rental
Over time, fuel can degrade. As the fuel evaporates, it can cause the carburetor and other engine parts to corrode. However, you also do not want to store your recreational vehicle with an empty gas tank. This can cause seals to dry out.
Before storing your vehicle, fill the tank at least half way and pour in a fuel stabilizer. They are designed to reduce evaporation of solvents. Always make sure to read the directions on the bottle of the fuel stabilizer to make sure you are adding the correct amount.
Greasing your suspension and drivetrain is a great way to keep the suspension and steering systems working smoothly. The grease will push out the old, broken-down grease and dirt deposits accumulated during the season and fill all the small voids so moisture won’t collect inside.
There is no risk of over-applying grease, as it effectively protects against rust and corrosion.
Metal components are prone to rust and corrosion from moisture exposure. To protect your snowmobile or recreational vehicle parts, apply a light spray of WD-40 and avoid unintended areas like belts.
After a snowy season, your recreational vehicle may gather salt, mud, and debris. Neglecting to clean these before storage can lead to rust and corrosion.
Protect and ensure it has a long life by thoroughly cleaning it before putting it away for the summer. Giving it a good cleaning and wiping it down is also a great way to look for cracks or any other damage.
Find a good degreaser and spray the underside. Let it soak in for a few minutes before washing it off. Make sure to pick up a special cleaner for the seat. The last thing you want is to have a slippery seat and slide off the seat on your first ride.
Batteries can be quite sensitive and they are not cheap. Removing it and storing your battery properly is essential. They need to be stored off the ground, in a place that is dry and doesn’t have severe temperature changes. You’ll want to keep your battery charged and ready to go when needed again, so make sure to attach a trickle charger.
Store your snowmobile off the ground. Moisture can come up from the ground or cement floor and damage the rubber. This can cause it to break down and cause other parts to rust.
Use a custom cover to protect the snowmobile from dust and contaminants. Place mothballs under the vehicle to deter pests and seal the exhaust and other entry points to prevent rodents. Always clear any obstructions from the sleds openings before starting it.
A self storage unit is a safe, affordable and convenient way to store your snowmobile, recreational vehicles or other seasonal items. A self storage unit will give you lots of storage space to store your vehicle as well as keep it clean and dry.
At Elite Self Storage formerly Riel Park RV & Mini Storage, we have many storage solutions in a variety of sizes. Drive-up storage units make it easy to load and unload your recreational vehicle. We offer both short term and long term storage solutions.
With a fully fenced compound, great lighting, individual access code gated entry, multiple security cameras and mobile security patrols, you can rest assured that your items are safe and secure. With three convenient locations, located in St. Albert, North Edmonton and South Edmonton.
Give one of our storage rental experts a call today at 780-347-0433 or rent or reserve a unit online.
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