Kashane Walters explains how to clean your snowmobile before putting it away for the summer
Now that the snow has melted and the temperature is slowly but surely rising, it's time to think about putting your snowmobile away for the summer. But before you do, Edmonton, Alberta snowmobiling enthusiast Kashane Walters says it's essential to clean it thoroughly so that it's in good condition when you take it out again next winter. This article will walk you through the steps of cleaning your snowmobile correctly to stay in good shape all year long!
Clean The Engine And All Other Parts With Degreaser
A degreaser is a cleaning product designed to remove grease, oil, and other types of build-up from surfaces. When it comes to cleaning a snowmobile engine, degreasers can be very effective at breaking down and removing stubborn grime. In most cases, degreasers should be used with other cleaners, such as soaps or detergents. To clean the snowmobile engine with a degreaser, start by mixing the degreaser with water according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Next, use a brush or cloth to apply the solution to the engine, avoiding contact with any sensitive parts. Allow the degreaser to sit on the engine for a few minutes before rinsing it off with clean water. Repeat this process as necessary until the engine is clean. Once the engine is clean, move on to cleaning the rest of the snowmobile using the same method.
Kashane Walters says to pay special attention to areas prone to accumulating dirt and grime, such as the undercarriage or storage compartments. With a little effort, you can keep your snowmobile looking and running like new all winter long.
Wash The Snowmobile With A Pressure Washer
A pressure washer is a powerful cleaning tool that can remove dirt, grime, and other types of build-up from surfaces. When it comes to cleaning a snowmobile, pressure washers can be very effective at breaking down and removing stubborn dirt and grime. In most cases, pressure washers should be used with other cleaners, such as soaps or detergents.
Kashane Walters says to clean the snowmobile with a pressure washer, start by mixing the appropriate cleaner with water according to the manufacturer's instructions. Next, attach the high-pressure nozzle to the pressure washer and turn on the machine. Slowly move the nozzle over the surface of the snowmobile, being careful to avoid contact with any sensitive parts.
Allow the soap to sit on the snowmobile for a few minutes before rinsing it off with clean water. Repeat this process as necessary until the snowmobile is clean. Once the snowmobile is clean, move on to applying a waterproofing agent to all painted surfaces.
Apply A Waterproofing Agent To All Of The Painted Surfaces
A waterproofing agent is a product that is designed to create a barrier between surfaces and water. When it comes to protecting a snowmobile from rust and corrosion, waterproofing agents can effectively prevent moisture from causing damage. In most cases, waterproofing agents should be applied after the snowmobile has been cleaned and dried.
To apply a waterproofing agent, start by reading the manufacturer's instructions to determine the best way to apply the product. In most cases, waterproofing agents can be applied using a brush, cloth, or sprayer. Once you have determined how to apply the product, simply follow the manufacturer's instructions to apply it to all painted surfaces on the snowmobile.
Be sure to pay special attention to areas prone to rust or corrosion, such as the undercarriage or storage compartments. With a little effort, you can keep your snowmobile looking and running like new all winter long.
Lubricate All Of The Moving Parts On The Snowmobile
Kashane Walters says lubrication is a process that is used to reduce friction between moving parts. When it comes to maintaining a snowmobile, lubrication can be very effective at preventing damage and extending the machine's life. In most cases, lubrication should be performed regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
To lubricate the moving parts on a snowmobile, start by identifying all of the moving parts that need to be lubricated. Once you have specified all of the moving parts, simply apply a generous amount of lubricant to each one. Be sure to pay special attention to any areas prone to wear or tear, such as the undercarriage or storage compartments.
Store The Snowmobile In A Dry Place
Once the snowmobile is clean, dry, and lubricated, it is crucial to store it in a dry place where it will not be exposed to direct sunlight or rain. In most cases, the best place to store a snowmobile is in a garage or shed. If you do not have access to a garage or shed, simply cover the snowmobile with a tarp or other protective cover.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning, maintaining, and storing a snowmobile properly can be a lot. However, you can keep your snowmobile looking and running like new all winter long with a little effort. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that your snowmobile is ready for next season.