Don't Snow Down
Keep Sledding With These 7 Snowmobile Maintenance Tips
Only a few things in life can take your adrenaline from 0 to 100 as fast as a snowmobile can. Plowing through freshly fallen snow and sledding down icy slopes is something few people will ever experience in their lives. For the chosen few who own these machines, here’s the low-down on how to keep your snowmobile in excellent shape.
1. Clean your snowmobile frequently.
Wash off any salt or grime that accumulates during rides. Though the undercarriage can be easy to miss, don’t forget to clean it too and remove any ice or snow build-up. A clean snowmobile looks good and runs better because regular cleaning can prevent rust and other forms of corrosion and damage.
2. Check your fluids regularly.
Keep tabs on your engine oil, transmission oil, and brake fluid. Refer to the owner's manual for the standard procedure and intervals at which these fluids should be changed. It makes more sense to keep an eye on the levels of these fluids between oil changes than to wait for them to run out and cause additional damage.
3. Keep an eye on belts and hoses.
Belts, hoses, and other parts that experience rough wear and tear over time should be replaced regularly. Look out for signs of damage the next time you’re working on your snowmobile. Keeping an extra belt on hand in case of an emergency can save you valuable time and can prevent you from being stranded in the middle of nowhere.
4. Properly adjust your track tension.
If the track is too loose, it can cause slippage and affect handling. If it's too tight, it can cause excessive wear on the track and the drivetrain. To get the most from your snowmobile, adjust your track tension based on the type of terrain you most frequently encounter when you’re out on the trails.
5. Check the spark plugs.
These tiny but essential parts wear out over time and should be replaced if they aren’t functioning correctly. As with most electrical devices in vehicles, spark plugs can incur damage from cold weather. Older spark plugs are particularly vulnerable to low temperatures, melting ice, and condensation. Check your spark plugs for signs of corrosion and have them replaced if necessary.
6. Keep your battery charged.
Without your battery, you can’t start the engine and your snowmobile is grounded. It’s thus a good idea to keep the battery charged during the off-season by checking on it once in a while and using a battery maintainer or trickle charger to top it off.
7. Invest in a cover.
If you don’t have one yet, get a snowmobile cover regardless of where you store it. Investing in a high-quality cover such as those offered by CarCovers.com pays off in the long run. It not only protects your snowmobile from outdoor elements but can also wick away condensation or moisture deposits that form on your ride’s surface while indoors. This can help prevent rust and other forms of damage caused by snow, ice, and rain. Follow these tips the next time you’re working on your snowmobile to ensure that it will run smoothly and safely for years to come.Find more handy tips like these in CarCovers.com’s article section.
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Cleaning your car is a crucial part of your preventative maintenance routine and can prolong your car’s life and maintain its resale value. For more information on protecting your vehicle, explore our educational blog series. To protect your car, browse our full selection of custom vehicle covers online.
