Explore Mountain Snowmobiling

Get your machine ready for use and perform all the necessary checks before you hit the trails.

The time of year has come that boats are being put back into storage again, but sleds are being taken out in anticipation of that very first snowfall, so make sure you start early with snowmobile safety so that you’ll be ready when it happens.

One of the best ways to remain safe on the trails is to check, test, and repair the sled before problems occur.

The odds are that the machine has been in storage for the last several months, so certain snowmobile safety steps need to be taken in order to prevent problems from occurring while it is in use. It isn’t a complex or expensive process, but should be a part of your regular maintenance efforts to ensure a smooth ride and stop breakdowns or dangerous problems.

The first step in snowmobile safety is to follow the owner’s manual pre-operation instructions.

After you’ve completed the instructions that the manufacturers have provided, though, you can take your snowmobile safety up another level with the following steps:

• Fuel – if last year’s fuel was left in the tank without having stabilized it first, it is a good idea to drain it out and replace it with fresh fuel. Don’t forget to top up your fuel levels every time you head out onto the trails.

• Fuel lines – go over the fuel lines and check for signs of crystals. If they are present, it is recommended that the lines be replaced.

• Oil – oil changes are recommended for any four-stroke engine at the start of the season after it has been in storage.

• Air box – check the air box for rodent nests and be sure to carefully clean it out before you start the engine for the first time. Clean the filter, as well.

• Throttle, brake pads, and fluid levels – check each of these carefully for levels and condition.

• Drive belt – check the condition of the drive belt and always keep a spare one handy, just in case. Perform this check before each trip out to reduce the odds of having to change it while you’re out.

This is only the start of your pre-season snowmobile safety efforts, but they will make a big difference in avoiding problems as you ride.