Winter is coming… And that can only mean one thing: Winterisation. Ok, so you might not know or say this actual term, but if you want to ensure your Sea-Doo is winter-ready then you’ll want to get cosy and familiar with the winterisation process. How do you get your Sea-Doo winterised and ready for hibernation in the colder months?
Firstly, what is winterisation exactly?
Glad you asked. Before you put your PWC on ice over winter, winterisation is the process of getting your Sea-Doo serviced and the engine fogged after a busy summer so that it remains in top condition during its winter hibernation. Sitting stagnant without doing the prep work can mean you are leaving your PWC open for rust, corrosion and faulting parts.
Winterising is a combination of professional servicing, engine fogging and some at-home storage care.
At Sutto’s, our Sea-Doo winterisation service includes:
A full service of the PWC, including:
-
Change all spark plugs
-
Compression test all cylinders
-
If your PWC is supercharged, a supercharger slip test and intercooler check
-
Remove the jet pump and inspect the wear ring
-
Engine oil & filter change
Plus:
What do I need to do to keep my Sea-Doo in good condition in colder months?
While the Sutto’s winterisation service will ensure the trickier work is complete for your Sea-Doo’s winter staycation, there are some things you’ll need to do to make sure your spring/summer start-up runs smoothly.
Flush the engine exhaust
This should be done after each ride regardless, but a final flush before putting your PWC to bed is vital. It’s important that you follow the specific Sea-Doo method, especially if you’ve flushed other brands. Unlike other PWCs that can have their engine flushed for up to ten minutes, the closed-loop cooling system means that you in fact flush the engine exhaust, and only for approximately 90 seconds. If you go for longer, you can jeopardise the carbon seal (that can be costly to replace, and put your hull at risk of taking on water.
Learn how to flush your Sea-Doo engine exhaust here.
Store indoors
It might not need mentioning, but just in case: store indoors. For all the obvious reasons, the elements will harm your PWC over time if it is left outside for months. Opt for a moderate-temperature dry space, and check in every so often that there has been no build up of condensation or other moisture, especially under the seat. If you want to go the extra mile, opt for a PWC cover – especially if you have no option but to store it outside.
Clean out
If you’re reading this thinking ‘Who stores their PWC over winter??’ and are more prone to throwing on a wetsuit and taking on the icier waters, you’re not off the hook for wintering. With element changes and greater moisture in the air generally, it’s even more important than ever to give your Sea-Doo a good clean after every ride with warm soapy water, a rinse and a gentle wipe down.
Give Sutto’s a call to book in a winterisation service today, to make sure your PWC is in great nick come spring.
