How To Store Your Powersports Vehicles In The Winter

Don’t let your expensive ATV get left out in the cold. If you want your Powersports machine to be running like new by the time spring rolls around, then you must winterize it correctly.

Proper storage will not only ensure your machine is safe, but it can also save you money in repairs and maintenance in the long run.

The winter can prove to be detrimental to your Powersports machines. Continue reading to learn how to store Powersports the right way.

How to Store Powersports Machines

Store your Powersports machines in an area that is dry and secure. A storage shed is a great option or your garage. Be sure it is out of the way but still accessible so you can do regular checks.

While it may seem expensive to purchase an outdoor shed for your ATV, the damage to your ATV could result in much higher costs. For example, exterior wear along with frozen gas lines and ice build-up would be far more expensive to fix than the price of a shed.

Rack or Lift

If there’s not enough space in your garage, you might consider an elevated rack or lift. This can be installed in a garage, shed or barn. A lift system is a secure option for storing multiple ATV’s and also makes it easier to access the vehicles.

If you do not have a place indoors where you can store your vehicle, the next best option is a partially protected area, such as an overhang or corridor area. This could provide some protection from the wind.

Cover Up

You should also purchase a high-quality cover for your ATV that has durable synthetic fabric made of nylon or polyester.

Canvas covers are not recommended because they actually retain water, which promotes rust. Instead, you should use a breathable cover so that airflow will keep the vehicle dry.

Prepare Your Vehicle’s Engine

When it comes to storing your Powersports machines, there’s more to the process then just covering it up and walking away. Change the air and oil filters. Even if they are not due for a change, it’s important to make sure it is stored with new filters.

This will prevent any corrosion from occurring due to dirt left in the engine. Cylinder walls can rust if the engine is not run for several weeks.

Freshen Your Fuel

Another important step for engine preparation, especially for fuel-injected models, is to fill your tank completely with fresh fuel. Make sure it is full up to the bottom of the fuel filler neck.

If you are certain you won’t be using your vehicle for 4-6 weeks or more, then you should add a fuel stabilizer to the tank before filling it with fuel. This is also helpful if you don’t want to drain your tank completely. A fuel additive can protect your engine since the fuel can go bad quickly.

Drain Your Carburetor

When left sitting for a while, fuel also has the tendency to grow algae. This can wreak havoc on your carburetor. That’s why it’s important to drain your carburetor before storage. This can be done manually by turning the fuel off and then turning the screw at the bottom of the carburetor to let it drain out.

There’s also the option of turning the fuel off, letting the ATV run until it starts to die. Then turn the choke on and start the ATV again until it dies. This will ensure your carburetor is completely empty.

Lubricate Spark Plugs

Remove the spark plug from each cylinder. Then pour in a tablespoon of clean engine oil for lubricating the cylinder walls. Next, cover the spark plug holes with a clean cloth and turn over the key or ignition switch to the run position.

Let the engine turn over through several revolutions. This will coat the cylinder walls with oil. You may then reinstall the spark plugs.

Don’t Forget Vital Upkeep

This is a good opportunity to take care of regular maintenance and safety checks. Change any brake or clutch fluids if they haven’t been replaced in under two years or 12,000 miles. If your machine is also liquid-cooled, you may also want to change the coolant if it hasn’t been replaced in the past two years or 24,000 miles.

Be sure to follow your machine’s manual when replacing fluids to be sure you put the right amount and type of liquid in.

Now is also a good time to check the air pressure in your vehicle’s tire. Refill the air as needed. Be sure to continue to check the air pressure levels of the tires once a month while in storage to prevent flat spotting the tires.

You may also want to lube up any chains to prevent them from getting rusty. You can take this opportunity to check on your antifreeze levels and be sure everything is in good shape.

Battery Maintenance

You should make sure to remove the entire battery to charge. If you cannot remove your battery, you should use a battery maintainer so that it is in working order by spring. The change in temperatures throughout the winter can cause your battery to discharge.

If you are storing your battery in a climate-controlled area, then a maintainer is probably not necessary. Instead, you should give the battery a good charge once a month.

Make sure you are using the correct charger. A low trickle charge can prevent things like calcification or shorts that larger amperages are known to cause. Two amps or less are recommended for your ATV.

Ready for Action

If you follow the above steps on how to store Powersports machines during the winter, you’ll be ready to head out on the first nice day in spring. The winter is a good time to check over your vehicles to make sure you do any last-minute repairs and maintenance.

This will ensure your Powersports machines are in top shape when the warm weather rolls back around. Looking for more awesome tips for your Powersports machines? Check out our blog for the latest insider news.