14+ Snowmobile Storage Tips

By John Funk, February 05, 2025

Say goodbye to cold weather and get ready for the upcoming heat waves! With winter behind us, we’ll also be saying adieu to snow, which is a relief for some people, except maybe for snowmobile riders.

While it’s time to store your beloved snow vehicle for the off-season, many people still don’t have the slightest idea on how to store a snowmobile properly. Is it enough to park it on the grass in the shade of a nearby tree? Of course not! You spent thousands on your snowmobile, so you’d want to make sure it’s ready for the next riding season.

If you’re unsure of how to store a snowmobile during the warmer months, here are some tips you wouldn’t want to miss.

Where to Store Your Snowmobile

Your thousand-dollar snowmobile is about to temporarily retire until next winter. Ensuring your snowmobile is stored correctly is key to preserving its durability and optimal performance. By choosing the right storage location, you can extend the lifespan of your snowmobile and ensure it’s ready for the next riding season. Do you have a place to keep it in? Actually, there are several areas suitable for this purpose and each has its own advantages. Which one is right for you? Let these snowmobile storage ideas help you answer this question.

Store your snowmobile in a garage (if you have one). This option is perfect if you want to keep a watchful eye on your sled and have easy access to it whenever you feel like checking it out. A controlled environment helps prevent exposure to extreme temperatures and moisture, reducing the risk of mechanical issues.
A small handmade or factory-made shed also offers ample security and protection from the elements.
Storing your sled in a trailer allows for easy transport and storage. When it’s time to ride again, you can just hook up your trailer and go!
Self-storage. If you don’t have a garage, shed, or trailer, you can store your snowmobile in a nearby self-storage facility. It offers the same benefits, at the cost of rent and distance.
Storing your snowmobile outdoors is usually not recommended, since it exposes your ride to theft and the elements. However, if you don’t have a choice but to store it outdoors, don’t forget to cover it with a high-quality breathable cover that provides a secure, Seal-Fit.

Snowmobile Summer Storage Tips

Are you wondering how to store your snowmobile during summer? Storing your snowmobile for the off-season calls for some serious preparation. You can’t just park your ride anywhere and call it a day. It doesn’t work that way. So, how do you do it? Here are some snowmobile summer storage tips that can help keep your sled in tip-top shape throughout the off-season. These tips will help you understand what you should do to prepare your snowmobile for storage during the summer season.

Give it a wash. Riding through the snow all winter long can cause dirt and salt build-up. Without proper attention, these can cause corrosion, so you better clean it up – fast! Use warm, soapy water to clean the hood, tunnel, seat, and nose pan and rinse thoroughly when you’re done. Afterward, spray a grease-cutting cleaner under the hood and an engine degreaser near the oil reservoir and on the exhaust ports.

Wax. Apply wax after cleaning your snowmobile to restore its original shine, extend its productive life, and make it easier to clean in the future.

Mind your fuel system. Properly treating your snowmobile’s fuel before storage is crucial to preventing engine damage and ensuring a smooth startup when you're ready to ride again. There are two kinds of fuel systems: fuel-injected systems and carburetor systems.

Fuel-injected systems need gasoline to stay lubricated and protected, especially when in storage. If your ride has a fuel-injected system, fill the tank and add a fuel stabilizer. Run the engine for a few minutes to ensure that the treated gasoline flows through the components.
As gasoline ages, it can degrade, forming varnish deposits that obstruct fuel lines and hinder engine efficiency. Adding a fuel stabilizer can also help slow down the oxidation process and reduce the evaporation of volatile compounds, keeping the fuel fresh and preventing gum and deposit formation inside the fuel system.
To properly stabilize the fuel, start by adding the recommended amount of fuel stabilizer to a full tank of gasoline. A full tank helps minimize air exposure, reducing condensation and moisture buildup inside the tank. After adding the stabilizer, gently rock the snowmobile to mix it thoroughly. Once that’s done, as mentioned earlier, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to ensure proper circulation. This ensures that the treated fuel circulates through the fuel lines, carburetor, and injectors, protecting them from gum deposits and corrosion.
After finishing this step, go the extra mile by draining any remaining fuel from the carburetor to protect it. This prevents gasoline from turning into a sticky residue that can clog small passages and damage gaskets. Should your snowmobile feature a fuel shutoff valve, remember to close it to prevent fuel from continuing to flow into the system while it’s in storage.
For older carburetor systems, most riders recommend completely draining the tank prior to storage to prevent fuel from evaporating and leaving behind a residue that could block passageways and damage metal.

Fog the engine. Fogging oil displaces moisture from metal and forms a protective coating to prevent the crankshaft bearings, connecting rods, and other engine parts from corroding.

Grease lube points and chassis. Coat all the lube points to prevent exposure to water and prevent rust formation during the off-season. Avoid applying anything on the clutch or belts.

Grease suspension and steering systems. Aside from preventing corrosion, applying grease to the suspension and steering systems will ensure smooth operation when you’re ready to ride again.

Remove the battery. Place the battery in a safe, temperature-controlled area away from sunlight. Also remember to keep the battery charged using a battery tender or a trickle charge.

Remove the belt. If you want to prevent condensation building between the belt and clutch, don’t leave the belt on. Removing the belt also keeps it from setting in its installed shape which may prevent it from rotating properly once the riding season starts.

Clean the chaincase. Never leave used lubricant in the chaincase, as it also leaves behind water, which may cause corrosion.

Inspect and loosen the track. Tension and use will wear down the track over time. When preparing to store your snowmobile, inspect the track for any signs of damage and loosen it up to relieve tension.

Fix broken parts. While your snowmobile is in storage, take the time to inspect the parts that may have been broken or damaged and repair or replace them as necessary.

Lift the snowmobile. Once everything is done, it’s time to store your snowmobile. Properly storing your snowmobile goes beyond just finding a dry, indoor space—it’s also important to keep it elevated off the ground. This simple step can significantly extend the lifespan of key components, particularly the suspension system. We recommend placing it on a snowmobile storage rack to relieve tension on the tracks and suspension.

By lifting your sled, you also relieve tension on the springs and shocks, preventing them from becoming compressed and weakening over time. Elevating the snowmobile helps prevent moisture from accumulating, which in turn reduces the chances of rust and corrosion forming on the undercarriage, track, and skis.

There are a couple of effective ways to elevate your snowmobile for storage:

Using a Jack Stand: One common method is to lift the rear end of the snowmobile and place a sturdy jack stand under the rear bumper. This keeps the track off the ground and reduces strain on the suspension components. Once it’s securely elevated, you can unhook the rear springs to further minimize tension and wear.
Using a Wooden Box or Stand: Another method is to lift the entire snowmobile and place a solid wooden box, crate, or a snowmobile-specific stand under the chassis. This allows the front suspension to hang freely, preventing unnecessary pressure on the shocks and ski springs.

Whichever method you choose, ensure that the snowmobile is stable and securely supported to avoid tipping or shifting during storage. By taking the time to properly elevate your sled, you’ll not only protect critical components but also ensure a smoother ride when the next snow season arrives.

Keep the Frame and Moving Parts Properly Lubricated

Regular lubrication is essential for maintaining your snowmobile's performance and preventing premature wear and corrosion. Over time, exposure to moisture, snow, and road salt can cause metal components to rust, which can lead to stiffness, reduced maneuverability, and even mechanical failure. Properly greasing and protecting these parts ensures smooth operation and extends the lifespan of critical components.

Start by applying grease to all zerk fittings in the rear suspension, front suspension, and steering system. This serves two key purposes: it helps prevent rust from forming on metal parts and pushes out old, thickened grease along with any dirt or debris that may have built up over time. Fresh grease ensures that all moving components remain lubricated and function properly, reducing friction and preventing unnecessary strain on the system.

In addition to greasing the suspension and steering points, apply a protective coating to other exposed metal surfaces. A light mist of WD-40 or a comparable rust-preventative spray can create a barrier against moisture and corrosion. Focus on areas prone to rust, such as the skid frame, bolts, and metal brackets. Be sure to avoid spraying the clutch, belt, and brake components, as lubricants can cause these parts to slip and reduce performance.

By keeping your snowmobile’s frame and moving parts well-lubricated, you not only protect it from rust and corrosion but also ensure that it remains in peak condition for your next ride.

Inspect and Maintain Your Brake System

A properly maintained brake system is crucial for ensuring both safety and reliable performance, making it vital to conduct a thorough inspection during the off-season. Over time, exposure to harsh winter conditions, moisture, and frequent use can lead to wear, cracks, and leaks in critical brake components. Performing routine maintenance ensures your snowmobile is in top condition before the next riding season.

Start by checking the entire brake system for any signs of damage or wear. Carefully examine the brake hose for cracks, leaks, or brittleness, as aging rubber can degrade over time. Inspect the brake pads for excessive wear—thin or unevenly worn pads should be replaced to maintain optimal stopping power. Additionally, check the brake disc for warping, cracks, or scoring, which could compromise braking performance.

If any leaks, cracks, or significant wear are found, replace the damaged components immediately rather than waiting for the start of the season. Cold weather can exacerbate existing issues, making repairs more complicated and costly.

Lastly, check your brake fluid level and condition. If the fluid appears dirty, discolored, or low, consider flushing and replacing it with fresh brake fluid. Over time, moisture contamination can reduce the fluid’s effectiveness, leading to a spongy brake feel and decreased stopping power.

By taking the time to inspect and maintain your brake system before the cold sets in, you ensure that your snowmobile remains safe, responsive, and ready for peak performance when the snow returns.

Pest control. You don’t want critters nesting on your resting snowmobile, so cover up any openings such as the muffler outlet, carburetor intake, cooling system intake, and outlet holes. Scatter dry sheets around to repel mice. You can also place some mothballs on the hood for another line of defense.

Cover it up. A high-quality snowmobile cover adds another layer of protection to protect your ride against the damaging effects of the elements. If you’re using a cover purchased during the previous season, make sure it is clean, since dirty covers can scratch the snowmobile’s finish.

Looking for the Best Snowmobile Cover? Get One at Seal Skin!

You want to give your pride and joy the best protection it deserves but due to the prohibitive cost, buying a custom-fit cover is simply out of the question. We feel you! And that’s why we are offering you the best Seal-Fit snow mobile covers available in the market today.

When you buy a Seal Skin snowmobile cover, you can be sure you’re getting the best value for your money. Our covers are made with five layers of high-quality materials that are guaranteed to provide the protection your sled needs, no matter where you’re keeping it during the off-season. It also provides a snug fit to ensure ease of use while providing excellent protection.

At Seal Skin Covers, your satisfaction is our priority. Why would we provide a 10-year warranty for our snowmobile covers and a full 30-day return and exchange warranty with every purchase if it isn’t so?

Interested? Call us at 800-915-0038 during our office hours (Monday to Sunday, 9 AM to Midnight EST) and we’ll gladly answer all your questions about our products and/or policies.