Essential Snowmobile Maintenance Tips for Colorado Summers

Keep Your Sled in Top Shape During the Off-Season

When the snow melts and the trails quiet down, your sled deserves some off-season care. Colorado’s short but intense summer is the perfect time to give your snowmobile the maintenance it needs to stay in peak condition for next winter’s adventures.

Proper summer snowmobile storage means more than just parking it in the garage — it’s about cleaning, protecting, and preserving every component to ensure performance and longevity.

1. Deep Clean Your Snowmobile

Start with a thorough cleaning to remove dirt, grime, and leftover salt.

• Use a mild soap, water, and a soft brush or pressure washer.

• Clean all components: engine, track, clutch, and body panels.

• Dry completely to prevent corrosion and rust.

Powder Pro Tip: Pay close attention to your clutch area — fine dust and grime can shorten belt life and affect performance next season.

2. Inspect and Repair Before Storage

Before stashing your sled away:

• Inspect for damage: Check skis, shocks, and body panels.

• Examine your track: Look for tears or missing lugs and release track tension for proper preservation.

• Check key systems: Chaincase oil, spark plugs, and wiring.

If needed, refer to your owner’s manual or schedule a preseason tune-up with a local Colorado snowmobile service shop.

3. Protect Your Engine and Fuel System

Keep your engine healthy through the summer months:

• Add fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.

• Fog the engine to protect internal parts from moisture and corrosion.
  Remove and store your battery in a cool, dry place. Use a trickle charger to maintain charge levels.

Expert Insight from Keith Hadyk, Founder of Powder Pro Lab:

“Even though we’re all ready to swap sleds for mountain bikes or dirt bikes when the snow melts, a little summer maintenance goes a long way. Taking the time to clean, fog, and elevate your sled now means fewer issues when it’s go-time in the fall.”

4. Store It Right: Indoor or Outdoor

Indoor Storage:

• Elevate skis and track off the ground using a sled stand or blocks.

• Cover with a breathable snowmobile cover to prevent dust and condensation.

Outdoor Storage:

• Place a tarp or plywood base to avoid ground moisture.

• Cover the machine with a breathable, UV-resistant cover.

• Block openings (exhaust, intakes) with rags to prevent rodent damage.

5. Lubricate and Secure

Before covering your sled for the summer:

• Lubricate suspension, throttle, and steering components.

• Double-check that all bolts and fasteners are tight.

• Store in a dry, shaded area if possible.

Final Thoughts: Summer Prep for Winter Stoke

When autumn returns to Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, you’ll be glad you took the time to prep your machine. A little off-season attention ensures your snowmobile performs at its best — so you can focus on exploring deeper and sending it further when the snow flies again.

Whether you’re a weekend rider or a backcountry adventurer, keeping your sled in top condition is key to a safe and fun winter. Once the snow starts flying and you’re getting hyped for another winter of riding, kick off the season right with Powder Pro Lab.

Sign up for a Motorized Backcountry Skills Clinic or AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Course to refresh your knowledge, build confidence, and fine-tune your decision-making before heading into the mountains. Our certified instructors combine professional training with real-world backcountry experience to help you ride smarter, safer, and stronger this season.