It’s been another great winter of riding, and now it’s time to switch gears and get ready for the summer. However, before you put the dirt bike away for the season, check to see that your sled is ready for use when the snow starts falling. The snowmobile parts deteriorate if left exposed to the weather. Fuel hoses harden, seat textiles fracture, and rust develops on internal engine components. Back suspension corrosion also leads to the binding of components. The sparkling sheen of the tunnel gradually transforms into a drab, powdery coating of “blah” as the decals begin to fracture and peel. But, there should be a brighter future for snowmobiles.
Putting your sled in the garage and adding some gasoline stabilizer to the tank won’t protect it from wear and tear. Preparing a snowmobile for the off-season in the spring will ensure that it is safe and enjoyable to ride, as well as help it preserve its worth.
Several ounces of gasoline stabilizer, a can of storage fogging oil, a few ounces of grease, essential hand tools, spray lubrication, and a safe spot for the snowmobile to rest until autumn are all that is required.
Here are a few easy things you can do to guarantee your snowmobile is in top shape and ready to tackle the trails when it starts snowing again.
Washing
When the season comes to a close, the trails may get muddy, and when you mix that with all of the road salt from trailering, your sled can become clogged with some terrible things.
It’s critical to remove all of the filth and salt from your snowmobile since it may be corrosive and cause it to degrade throughout the summer months.
Take a sponge and some soapy water and get to cleaning away. Take advantage of any opportunity to go under the hood and inside the suspension.
When you’ve finished cleaning your sled, you may use a silicone detailer or some wax to seal in the shine. This will restore its luster, but more significantly, make it more resistant to dirt and filth.
Fog the Engine
In order to avoid corrosion during long-term storage, you should fog the engine before putting it away for the summer. It is named from the large amount of white smoke produced by the surplus lubricant; thus, it is best to carry out this procedure outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
Fogging your snowmobile may be accomplished in one of two ways: Only oil-injected machines will be able to use this technology for the first time. Pull the oil pump cord to keep it open while the engine is running, and then let the engine run for approximately 10 minutes to cool off. A vibrant oil mixture will be circulated through the engine when the oil pump is turned on and open the valve.
Alternatively, your snowmobile engine is running when the airbox is removed and you can spray the fogging oil directly into the carburetor’s throat or the throttle body. Spray alternately into each cylinder for a few seconds while maintaining the engine slightly above idle. Proceed until sputtering or heavy white smoke comes from the exhaust if necessary.
Greasing the Chassis and Lube Points
To begin with, consult your owner’s handbook or choose an all-season grease based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Lubricate your steering and suspension at the back and front of your vehicle. As a result, the steering systems and suspension will run more smoothly, and corrosion will be less likely.
Over-greasing isn’t a problem since you can press the shaft or tube to remove the excess. You may use WD-40 or similar mild oil to preserve the remainder of your sled’s metal surfaces.
However, be cautious not to mist the clutches. Using a degreaser before your first winter ride can remove any lingering oil residue from your bike and equipment.
Fuel Stabilizer
During the year, the gasoline’s solvents might degrade and evaporate. The fumes may cause certain carburetor’s metals to corrode, resulting in the formation of the green sludge.
Using a gasoline stabilizer will prevent solvents from evaporating, allowing the fuel to maintain its octane levels during the summer months. Fuel stabilizers are developed precisely for ethanol mixed gas.
Having a full gas tank will also help to limit the amount of oxidation in the fuel and avoid condensation, which might cause water to be introduced into the gasoline system.
Disconnect the Driven Belt
In the first place, there will be no harm done if you remove your hand from the driven belt. These days, the compounds utilized in the belts are so sophisticated that when you run your sled on a stand, the belt will become malleable in seconds.
Remove the sled if you only intend to use it once a month. Be aware! Start a sled with the chain attached at all times. Remove the belt if you want to store your sled until November. Everything is up to you.
Ensure That the Snowmobile Is Completely Covered and Elevated
If your snowmobile is placed on a chilly garage floor, there is a chance that moisture may build up on its body and cause rust. Snowmobile dollies are ideal for storing your snowmobile during the summer months.
A dolly protects the sled from touching the ground, making it easy to move about when necessary. You can also use dryer sheets to deter mice from your sled. Cockroaches are discouraged by the use of mothballs placed over the hood.
Finally, note any maintenance or repair concerns with your snowmobile and contact Straightline Performance to purchase the best-in-class parts that you might need. We’ve become experts in designing and manufacturing the highest quality aftermarket performance parts for today’s snowmobiles.
These systems combine high-tech design with top-grade materials to deliver unmatched performance and long life. We use the latest computer-controlled machine tools to produce 100% prototype tested products that have been checked for fit and function before being released for production.
Once you install one of our Snowmobile Performance Systems, we are confident that it will be loved on the first ride! Visit https://straightlineperformance.com/ to browse our comprehensive inventory.
Straightline Performance,
15250 Hornsby St. Forest Lake Minnesota 55025,
651-466-0212
