Getting Your Snowmobile Trail-Ready

For those of us with cold weather winters, we don’t have much of a choice when it comes to riding our motorcycles.  However, that’s no reason to just sit inside and get cabin fever – hit the snowmobile trails!
With the weather getting colder by the day and winter looming here in the Midwest, it’s that time of year.   If you didn’t get your sled looked at or perform any season end maintenance, or just want to give it a once over, here’s a quick list to get you started so you’re trail ready when the snow flies.

The best way to perform any snowmobile maintenance or repairs  is to use a snowmobile lift.  This will make your life much easier. 
Check out the J & S Jacks Sled Lift here!

•    Thoroughly inspect your machine.  Look for loose parts, worn belts, cracks, and anything else out of the ordinary.  Find and clean all of the grease fittings on your machine and add fresh automotive grease.  Be careful to not over-lubricate; grease should be visible just outside the fitting.
•    Add fresh fluids.  Siphon any old fuel out that sat over the winter - this will make your machine run poorly – before adding fresh fuel.  Check engine oil, brake fluid, and engine coolant level.
•    Unplug intake.  If you blocked the air intake and exhaust with cloth or wood to prevent rodents from building nests, make sure to remove these.
•    Replace spark plugs.  Be sure they are properly gapped.
•    Clean the carburetor with a can of carburetor cleaner.   You’ll need just a few basic tools to take apart your carb and clean it properly.
•    Check the skis and carbide runners.  Check for any deep gouges, cuts, or holes in the skis.  If runners are slightly bent, you can straighten them in a vice or take them in to have them worked on.
•    Clean your snowmobile.  Wash off any salt, dirt, or any other debris with soap and water and clean the seat with upholstery cleaner.

With these tips, you should be off and running when it’s time to hit the trials!