Before the winter arrives, jet ski owners must remove their craft from the water and place it in storage. There are some additional steps to take before storing the vessel to ensure it’s in top shape when you’re ready to use it again in the warm weather. Below are some tips to winterize your jet ski and prevent future damage. 

5 Ways to Winterize Your Jet Ski 

1. Remove Water From the Engine

Jet ski engines feature impellers that take in water before shooting it backward to propel the craft forward. Owners must remove this water before storing the vessel on a dry dock to avoid freezing and cracking the engine. To do so, pull the vessel onto a trailer at an angle, so the front is higher than the back. Start the engine and run it for less than 30 seconds before turning it off. Follow this process two or three times to ensure all of the water is expelled. 

2. Clean the Vessel

Use dish soap and water with a soft cloth to wipe down the jet ski. Scrub the seats with a UV protectant to mitigate sun damage, and remove any algae or seaweed from the hull. Cleaning the craft reduces the risk of staining from organic matter that is left there to dry out. Plus, it ensures that the personal watercraft won’t corrode and will be ready to hit the water next year.

3. Fill up the Tank

Always top off the gas tank before placing a jet ski in storage. Consider adding a stabilizer to the fuel to prevent evaporation that can damage the engine through oxidation. 

4. Swap the Oil

The engine must be lubricated while not in use. Change the oil and swap out the oil filter to prevent corrosion and ensure all the seals are appropriately lubricated. This step will protect the watercraft and make it more likely to start up right away when you’re ready to get back on the water when it warms up.

5. Remove the Battery

When batteries are connected to an engine, their power slowly trickles out even if the craft is not in use. Avoid this wear and tear by disconnecting the battery and placing it in a heated location. Many people attach these power sources to automatic battery chargers to keep them ready for use while in storage. This move will prevent power loss and maximize the lifetime of the battery.

If you’re interested in having professionals winterize your jet ski, contact McMillan Marine in Monroe County, NY. The shop has been in business for 25 years, featuring watercraft experts who sell boats and equipment and provide mechanic services. Call the Rochester-area company at (585) 288-2180. Visit the website for information on their service department and to experience why they’re a top CSI award winner for achieving excellence in customer satisfaction.