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Snowmobile storage
 When
the snowmobiling season is over, it’s important to take proper
steps to store you machine. The proper storage of your snowmobile
will greatly improve the life of your machine.
Off-season or extended storage requires preventative measures to
prolong the service life of your snowmobile engine. Proper storage
preparation greatly improves the life and look of any snowmobile.
Checklist for your snowmobile storage:
· Clean Machine – Clean all areas of the machine with
a mild soap and warm water to completely remove all salt and dirt.
Don’t use harsh detergents or high-pressure washers. Pressure
washers force water into bearings and seals, and some detergents
deteriorate rubber parts. Use dish soap or Simple Green™ type
cleaners only. Temporarily place duct tape over areas such as the
ignition switch and air box intake to keep water out while washing.
Wax hood and tunnel (where applicable) with a high quality silicone
wax.
· Stabilize Fuel – Add Polaris Carbon Clean Fuel System
Additive (Polaris part number 2871326) in recommended amount to
stabilize fuel. Follow the instructions on the container for recommended
amount. Carbon clean will also prevent bacterial growth in the fuel
system. Allow 15-20 minutes for the stabilizer to disperse through
the fuel in the tank. Start and run the engine long enough to be
sure the stabilizer is distributed throughout the entire fuel system.
· Protect Metal Parts / Exterior Metal Surfaces –
Spray all exposed metal parts including shock absorber shafts with
a rust preventative such as T-9 Metal Protectant (Polaris part number
2871064), WD-40™, or LPS-2™.
· Grease / Lubricate – Remove the weight from front
and rear suspensions and grease all fittings with Polaris Premium
All Season Grease (PN 2871423, 14 oz. tube or PN 2871322, 3 oz.
tube). Removing weight from the component being greased will help
purge water and dirt from shafts and bushings and allow the grease
to penetrate the entire joint. Grease the jackshaft bearing, tie
rod ends and steering post.
· Fog The Engine – Moisture is the number one enemy
of an engine in storage. Water vapor is a by-product of combustion,
and this, combined with condensation and combustion acids can result
in rust and corrosion during storage. Polaris Premium Fogging Oil
(Polaris part number 2870791) is high in corrosion inhibitors and
is formulated to disperse readily to cling to all internal engine
parts, forming a protective barrier against acids and moisture.
Warm the engine to operating temperature before fogging and follow
the directions on the container. Important Note: Do not start engine
during storage period, as this will disturb the oil film created
by fogging.
· Drain Carburetor Bowls – z Shut fuel off and drain
carburetors into a suitable container or shop towel by removing
the water trap plug or bowl drain plug. Be sure to follow all fuel
handling precautions outlined in your owner’s manual.
· Drive Belt / Clutches – Remove drive belt from machine
and store in a cool, dry location away from sunlight. Wipe the clutch
sheaves with a light rust preventative such as T-9 to prevent oxidation.
Attach a note to the drive belt reminding you to clean the clutch
sheaves with a non-oil based solvent (lacquer thinner or alcohol)
before installing the belt later.
· Track – Elevate and safely support machine with
track and skis off the ground to minimize spring fatigue. It is
not necessary to loosen track tension for regular seasonal storage.
Polaris offer an excellent jack stand
· Chaincase Oil – Drain chaincase oil. Remove cover
and clean entire chaincase thoroughly. Inspect chain and sprocket
condition and adjust if necessary. Add new chaincase oil to proper
specification. (Polaris chaincase oil part number 2871280 –
quart).
· Fox Shocks – Change Fox™ shock oil annually
for maximum performance and corrosion protection. Refer to your
local dealer for more information regarding this subject.
· Storage Area / Covers – Be sure the storage area
is well ventilated. Cover the machine with a fabric tarp or a Polaris
snowmobile cover. Note: Do not use plastic or coated materials.
They do not allow enough ventilation to prevent condensation and
may promote corrosion and oxidation.
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