Off-season or extended storage requires preventative measures to prolong the service life of your engine and other components. Proper storage preparation greatly improves the life and look of any sled. Use this checklist as a guide to your summer snowmobile storage preparation.

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).

Battery maintenance – See battery maintenance article in this months edition.

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.