We recently wrote about the winterisation of your Sea-Doo jet ski and the importance of keeping up with your servicing. In both, we suggest storing your Sea-doo safely. But, what does that mean specifically? There are not only ways to create as close to perfect conditions for where you store your Sea-doo, but there is also a maintenance checklist you should work through before letting your Sea-doo jet ski hibernate for the winter in storage.
What’s the best environment to store my Sea-Doo in?
The best environment for the care of your Sea-Doo is not always the most conducive to what you have available. In an ideal world, your Sea-Doo should be stored in a garage or storage space that is ventilated, but climate controlled and protected from the elements. This would require you to have a garage with enough space to house your Sea-Doo, or enough of a budget to hire a space. It should also be covered with an opaque tarp.
If these suggestions aren’t possible, your Sea-Doo is not doomed. You just need to be vigilant with protecting it as well as you can.
Ensure you keep your Sea-Doo elevated on a jet ski trailer - these can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. This not only helps with manoeuvring it, it also will protect the hull.
Keep it away from the elements as much as you can. As mentioned above, keep an opaque tarp over it at all times and, if possible, keep it in a shaded spot like a carport. When the elements are particularly harsh like storms, heavy rains, hail or even extreme temperature drops, check it regularly. You don’t want condensation or built up water to cause rust or other damage, and obviously want to avoid scratches and dents. Dry off excess water with a towel where applicable.
Jet Ski Winter Storage Maintenance Checklist
Fill the tank
It might seem a bit strange to care about the fuel when you aren’t going to use your Sea-Doo for a while, but it actually can help protect your gas tank from condensation. This is especially the case over winter where the nights can get really frosty.
Change the oil
This is just standard best practice when you’re doing any kind of maintenance on your Sea-Doo. From scheduled to seasonal servicing, changing the oil is like getting regular dental cleans; it stops bad, and far more costly, issues happening later.
Drain water from the engine
Again, this is best practice anyway. But more so right before you send the Sea-Doo to storage. It’ll ensure you don’t get rust, mould and mildew build up. Stagnant water also doesn’t smell that crash hot, especially left for a few weeks or months.
Give it a good thorough clean and dry
Your future self will really thank you for this. After your last ride, give it a good clean and clearing of debris and dirt build up. Check all the nooks and crannies and make that Sea-Doo sparkle. For the same reason as draining the water is important, make sure it’s good and dry before putting the cover on.
Have any other questions about keeping your Sea-Doo in top shape over winter, or need help getting it done? Call our helpful maintenance team today!
