Jet skis and boats need maintenance at the end of the summer season in order to last longer. For this, it is necessary to prepare these boats for winter, in order to prevent rust and damage to the engine. You can choose whether to take your jet ski to a workshop at the end of the season or to prepare it yourself. Find out how by reading this article!
Steps
Part 1 of 5: Preparing for Work
Step 1. Read the manufacturer's manual
The manual may have advice on this type of procedure, specific to this type of boat.
Step 2. Decide when your last run will be for the current season
Plan to prepare the jet ski for winter soon after.
Step 3. Take the vehicle out of the water
Tie it tightly to the trailer. Move it about a meter up the ramp and then stop.
To be able to drain the water, the stern will need to be higher than the bow of your watercraft
Step 4. Drain the water out of the motor
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Start the engine while it is out of the water. Turn the handlebar from side to side. This way, the water will flow out of the engine.
Winterize a Jet Ski Step 4Bullet1 - Turn off the engine after 30 seconds. Let it sit for another 30 seconds. Start it up again a couple of times, always letting it rest for about thirty seconds between one ignition and the next.
Part 2 of 5: Clean the Vehicle
Step 1. Take the watercraft to the place where you will leave it stationary during the winter
Place it on a platform so that it does not rest on the ground.
- Make sure there is no flammable material in the storage area. Jet skis usually leave some fuel in the tank, so be careful.
- Make sure your watercraft is level on the platform. If it's on the trailer, put wooden boards behind its wheels so it doesn't move.
Step 2. Wash your watercraft thoroughly
Buy car cleaner and use warm water if possible.
- Wash the jet ski immediately after using it for the last time if you can. This will make it easier to get rid of algae and other dirt from the body.
- Rub a large, soft sponge with warm soapy water on the body of the bike. Go over the same spots several times: the dirt will be more difficult to remove than that of the cars.
- Use a non-abrasive brush to scrub harder on the underside of your watercraft. You will have to be able to remove all the algae!
- Rinse it thoroughly. Dry it well with soft towels.
Step 3. Check if the hull is still wet
If it is, dry it with soft towels.
Part 3 of 5: Polish your Jet Ski
Step 1. Buy some car wax to pass on your jet ski
Some boat parts stores may recommend more specific products.
Step 2. Smear the wax on the body of the watercraft
Spread it according to the instructions on the package. Then clean the wax.
Step 3. Smear a light coat of multipurpose lubricant on the metal pieces and handlebars
Make sure you don't wear too much.
Part 4 of 5: Using the Gas and Oil
Step 1. Fill the tank
You will reduce the risk of condensation in the engine if you put fuel in the jet ski.
Step 2. Add fuel stabilizer to the tank
Read the instructions to find out how much you will need. Stabilizers help prevent carburetor clogging.
Step 3. Start the engine
Make it go for 30 seconds.
This will allow the stabilizer to reach all parts of the engine and remove excess water
Step 4. Remove the air filters
It will be easier to get inside the engine compartment. Once the carburetors are lubricated, it is best to replace the air filters.
Step 5. Start the engine
Spray oil into both carburetors until the engine shuts down.
Step 6. Remove the candles
Make sure the cables discharge to ground before continuing.
Step 7. Spray the oil into the spark plug holes
Then cover them with a cloth.
Press the power button on the jet ski. This way the oil will spread well, without the vehicle starting up. Change the candles
Step 8. Remove the seat of the watercraft to allow any water remaining inside the motorbike to evaporate
Part 5 of 5: Remove the Battery
Step 1. Disconnect the battery
Disconnect the negative terminal first.
Step 2. Leave the battery in a garage, in a warm place
Place it on a rubber mat rather than concrete.
Step 3. Place a wool rag inside the motorcycle's exhaust pipe
This will prevent insects from going there to nest.
Step 4. Put a tarp over the bike
Advice
Clean up excess oil when you lubricate the carburetors and spark plug holes
Warnings
- Do not keep the motorcycle engine running for more than 30 seconds straight when out of the water.
- Do not leave the motorcycle at home. It emits harmful fumes.
