As the crisp air of late fall rolls in at your lakefront home, it’s time for many water enthusiasts to bid farewell to their PWCs (personal watercrafts) until the next season. Properly winterizing your jet ski, Sea-Doo, or WaveRunner isn’t just a routine task; it’s essential for protecting your investment and ensuring a smooth start when the warm weather returns. Neglecting this critical maintenance step could lead to costly repairs, engine issues, or reduced performance.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know how winterizing your PWC will benefit you. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the world of watercrafts, following these steps will help safeguard your machine during its off-season hibernation.
Why Winterizing Your PWC is Essential
Watercrafts are built for the water, but they don’t handle freezing temperatures well. Any leftover moisture can freeze, expand, and cause internal damage to the engine or cooling system. Additionally, prolonged storage without proper care can lead to corrosion, fuel degradation, and battery issues.
By winterizing your pwc, you:
- Prevent engine damage from freezing water.
- Protect fuel systems from gumming or varnish buildup.
- Avoid rust and corrosion of internal components.
- Prolong the lifespan and performance of your PWC.
Materials You’ll Need
Before diving in, gather the following supplies to streamline the process:
- Freshwater hose
- Engine flush kit
- Fuel stabilizer
- Fogging oil
- Marine-grade antifreeze
- PWC-compatible engine oil and filter
- Basic tools (wrench, screwdriver, etc.)
- Microfiber towels
- Protective cover
- Battery charger or tender
Step 1: Clean Your PWC
Start by giving your watercraft a thorough cleaning. Remove dirt, algae, and salt deposits to prevent corrosion during storage.
- Rinse the Exterior: Use a freshwater hose to rinse the hull, intake grate, and jet pump area.
- Wash with Soap: Apply a mild detergent or marine cleaner with a sponge. Focus on areas prone to salt or grime buildup.
- Dry Completely: Use a microfiber towel to dry all surfaces. Let it air dry for a few hours to ensure no moisture remains.
Step 2: Flush the Cooling System
Flushing the cooling system removes any saltwater, debris, or contaminants that could corrode internal components.
- Attach the Flush Kit: Connect a freshwater hose to your PWC’s flush port as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Start the Engine: Run the engine before turning on the water to avoid water backflow into the exhaust system.
- Run Freshwater: Let the freshwater flow for 2–5 minutes to clean the cooling system.
- Turn Off Water First: Always shut off the water before stopping the engine to prevent water entering the engine.
Step 3: Stabilize the Fuel
Fuel left sitting in the tank for months can degrade, leading to clogs and poor engine performance. Adding a fuel stabilizer prevents this.
- Fill the Tank: Top off the fuel tank to reduce condensation.
- Add Stabilizer: Pour the recommended amount of fuel stabilizer into the tank.
- Run the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the treated fuel through the system.
Step 4: Fog the Engine
Fogging oil protects internal engine components from corrosion during storage.
- Access the Engine: Open the seat or engine compartment to locate the air intake or carburetor.
- Spray Fogging Oil: While the engine is running, spray the fogging oil directly into the air intake until the engine stalls.
- Remove Spark Plugs: For added protection, remove the spark plugs and spray fogging oil into the cylinders. Reinsert the plugs without over tightening.
Step 5: Drain Water from the Engine
Residual water inside the engine can freeze and cause significant damage.
- Run the Engine Dry: After flushing, start the engine out of the water for 15–30 seconds to expel any remaining water from the cooling system.
- Inspect for Leaks: Look for any visible water inside the engine or hull and remove it with a towel or sponge.
Step 6: Change the Oil and Filter
For 4-stroke PWCs, changing the oil and filter prevents old, dirty oil from sitting in the engine all winter.
- Warm the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, making it easier to drain.
- Drain the Oil: Use a pump or siphon to remove the oil. Dispose of the used oil responsibly.
- Replace the Filter: Install a new oil filter and add fresh, PWC-specific oil.
Step 7: Add Antifreeze (if applicable)
Some PWCs have closed-loop cooling systems that require antifreeze to prevent freezing.
- Mix Antifreeze: Use marine-grade antifreeze as directed.
- Introduce Antifreeze: Run the engine and pour the antifreeze into the cooling system until it circulates throughout.
Step 8: Remove and Store the Battery
To prevent battery discharge or freezing, it’s best to remove the battery and store it indoors.
- Disconnect the Battery: Start with the negative terminal, then the positive.
- Clean Terminals: Wipe the terminals and apply a terminal protector to prevent corrosion.
- Store Properly: Keep the battery in a cool, dry place. Use a trickle charger or battery tender to maintain its charge.
Step 9: Inspect and Lubricate
Inspect your PWC for signs of wear or damage and lubricate key components.
- Inspect Cables and Hoses: Look for cracks, fraying, or wear. Replace if necessary.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Use a marine-grade lubricant on the throttle, steering cables, and other moving parts to prevent rust.
Step 10: Cover and Store
Protecting your PWC from dust, moisture, and pests is the final step.
- Use a Quality Cover: Invest in a PWC-specific cover that fits snugly and provides adequate protection.
- Choose a Storage Location: Store your PWC in a dry, sheltered area. If outdoors, consider elevating it off the ground to prevent moisture buildup.
- Secure the Cover: Ensure the cover is tightly secured to prevent wind or debris from damaging it.
Bonus Tips for Winter Storage
- Periodic Battery Maintenance: Check the battery charge once a month if not using a trickle charger.
- Check Your Manual: Always refer to the owner’s manual for PWC-specific winterization instructions.
- Schedule Professional Service: If you’re unsure about any step, a marine professional can help winterize your PWC properly.
Reviving Your PWC in the Spring
When spring rolls around, reversing the winterization process is straightforward. Reinstall the battery, inspect for any leaks or damage, and perform a quick test run. You’ll thank yourself for the thorough winterization when your PWC roars to life with ease.
Winterizing your PWC is a small investment of time and effort that pays off by keeping your watercraft in prime condition for years to come. By following this guide, you can confidently store your PWC and look forward to many more adventures on the water at your lakefront property.
Don’t let winter catch you unprepared—start winterizing your PWC today!
Posted by Scott Freerksen “The Lake Guy”