The Ultimate Guide to Jet Ski Winterization

Whether you’re a seasoned jet ski owner or are just diving into the world of personal watercraft ownership, preparing your vessel for the winter season is crucial for maintaining its performance, safety, and longevity. Before storing your jet ski for the off-season, you need to follow this ultimate winterization guide!

Drain All Water

Before storing your jet ski for the winter, drain the water from the engine and exhaust system. After hauling your personal watercraft (PWC) out of the water, tilt it to allow water to exit through the drain plugs. Remove standing water from the bilge area, and flush the cooling system with clean water until it runs clear. This step is crucial because water can freeze, expand, and cause cracks or severe damage to your jet ski’s components.

Remove Drain Plugs

Another important part of winterizing your personal watercraft is removing drain plugs before storage. Doing this allows any remaining water to drain fully, preventing potential damage from freezing temperatures. Frozen water inside your jet ski can cause structural damage when the temperature drops. Taking this precautionary step now is vital for protecting your investment.

Add a Fuel Stabilizer

Adding a high-quality fuel stabilizer to the gas tank is a great preventative measure that will prevent condensation from forming. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to determine the correct amount of stabilizer you need for the fuel tank size.

After adding the stabilizer, start the engine and run it for a few minutes to make the stabilizer circulate throughout the system. This process keeps the fuel fresh and maintains engine efficiency while reducing the risk of engine issues when you start using your jet ski again.

Do an Oil Change

If you haven’t performed an oil change recently, now is an ideal time to do so. Fresh oil eliminates contaminants and impurities and reduces the risk of gunk build up during storage. Replace the oil filter to guarantee optimal engine performance and extend its life. With a new filter, clean oil can circulate efficiently in your PWC. Be sure to use high-quality marine engine oil to protect against wear and tear.

Fog the Engine

To safeguard against internal corrosion over the winter months, apply a fogging oil spray to the inside of your jet ski’s engine before storage. It creates a protective barrier that prevents moisture accumulation and rust formation. Carefully follow the instructions to spray the fogging oil into the carburetor and/or spark plug holes.

Conduct Battery Maintenance

Removing your jet ski’s battery and storing it in a cool, dry place is a great winterization tactic. To prevent the battery from losing its charge and potentially dying during storage, charge it every few weeks using its charger. You might even invest in a trickle charger to maintain the battery’s health, making sure it’s ready for your next ride. Other key parts of battery maintenance include checking the terminals for corrosion and cleaning them if necessary.

Clean and Apply Wax

Thoroughly clean your PWC to remove corrosive substances, including salt, grime, and algae. Also, use a gentle marine cleaner and a soft brush to scrub the exterior. After cleaning, apply a coat of high-quality marine wax to protect against potential damage or fading. This step will help your jet ski retain its shine and look as good as new when you take it out again.

Lubricate Moving Parts

To prevent rust and corrosion from forming on moving parts, such as the throttle cable, steering system, and intake grate, apply a marine-grade lubricant. Doing this ensures that these components operate smoothly and reduces the risk of seizing, which can be particularly dangerous for your PWC after long periods of inactivity. Additionally, inspect the joints and hinges for wear, and apply lubricant if needed to maintain your jet ski’s functionality.

small amount of fogging oil into the cylinders. This oil can provide a layer of defense against moisture and corrosion, safeguarding internal components.

Check for Damage

Winterizing is a perfect opportunity to inspect your jet ski for any signs of damage or wear. Carefully examine the hull for cracks, dents, or deterioration, which could worsen if left unattended. Then, address these issues before tucking your jet ski away so you can prevent minor problems from developing into major issues. When you make sure your PWC is free of damage, you can keep it in top condition for when you are ready to return to the water.

Store in a Dry Place

Ideally, you should keep your jet ski in a dry, climate-controlled environment to prevent moisture from seeping in and causing damage. If indoor storage isn’t feasible, consider using a shed or a secure cover to shield the vessel from harsh weather conditions. Safe storage will help you preserve your jet ski’s condition over the winter, protecting it from rust formation and other weather-related issues.

Keep Up With Maintenance

Even though your jet ski will be inactive during the winter, it’s important to continue regular maintenance tasks, such as charging the battery every few weeks. Making this a habit ensures a smoother transition when it’s time to return to the water, keeping your personal watercraft in prime condition and ready for action. Regular maintenance can go a long way because it prevents avoidable issues and prolongs the overall lifespan of your jet ski.

Winterizing your jet ski is crucial for maintaining its performance and preventing costly repairs in the future. By following these detailed steps, you can ensure that your ride will be ready to go when the warm weather returns! Preparing your jet ski for storage is important, and SBT is here to help. Winterizing your PWC can be easy with our selection of aftermarket jet ski parts, so take care of winterization before it gets too cold!