Ultimate Guide: How to Winterize Your Jet Ski for Peak Performance Next Season
Winterizing your jet ski (also known as a personal watercraft or PWC) is crucial for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance when the warmer months return. Neglecting this essential maintenance task can lead to costly repairs down the line due to corrosion, freeze damage, and fuel degradation. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step approach to winterizing your jet ski, covering everything from initial preparation to final storage. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll be well on your way to protecting your investment and enjoying worry-free jet skiing next season.
## Why Winterize Your Jet Ski?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s understand why winterizing is so important. Leaving your jet ski unattended during the off-season without proper preparation can result in several problems:
* **Freeze Damage:** Water trapped in the engine, exhaust system, or cooling lines can freeze and expand, causing cracks in the engine block, cylinder head, or other vital components. This is perhaps the most significant risk and can lead to extensive and expensive repairs.
* **Corrosion:** Moisture and humidity can accelerate corrosion, especially in the engine and electrical components. This can lead to reduced performance, starting problems, and even complete failure.
* **Fuel Degradation:** Gasoline left in the tank for extended periods can degrade, forming gum and varnish deposits that can clog fuel lines, carburetors (if applicable), and fuel injectors. This can result in poor engine performance and starting difficulties.
* **Battery Deterioration:** Batteries left uncharged during the winter can lose their charge and become sulfated, reducing their lifespan and ability to hold a charge.
* **Pest Infestation:** Small animals like rodents can find their way into the engine compartment and storage areas, causing damage to wiring, hoses, and upholstery.
## Essential Supplies and Tools
Gathering the necessary supplies and tools before you begin will make the winterizing process smoother and more efficient. Here’s a comprehensive list:
* **Fuel Stabilizer:** Prevents fuel degradation and keeps the fuel system clean.
* **Fogging Oil:** Protects the engine cylinders from corrosion during storage.
* **Marine Grease:** Lubricates moving parts and prevents corrosion.
* **Antifreeze (Specifically for PWCs):** Protects the engine and cooling system from freezing. **Important:** Use propylene glycol antifreeze, *not* ethylene glycol (automotive) antifreeze, as it is less toxic to the environment and marine life.
* **Spray Lubricant (e.g., WD-40 or Corrosion Inhibitor):** Protects metal surfaces from corrosion.
* **Battery Charger/Maintainer:** Keeps the battery charged during storage.
* **Spark Plug Wrench:** For removing and inspecting spark plugs.
* **Wrenches and Screwdrivers:** For various tasks, such as disconnecting hoses and removing drain plugs.
* **Hose Clamp Pliers:** For removing and installing hose clamps.
* **Funnel:** For adding fluids.
* **Shop Rags:** For cleaning and wiping up spills.
* **Bucket:** For collecting drained fluids.
* **Garden Hose with Flushing Attachment:** For flushing the engine with fresh water.
* **Mild Soap and Water:** For cleaning the jet ski’s exterior.
* **Vinyl Protectant:** For protecting the seat and other vinyl surfaces.
* **Jet Ski Cover:** To protect the jet ski from the elements.
* **Owner’s Manual:** Your jet ski’s owner’s manual is an invaluable resource for specific instructions and recommendations.
* **Eye Protection and Gloves:** Safety first! Protect your eyes and hands from chemicals and sharp objects.
## Step-by-Step Winterizing Guide
Now, let’s get into the detailed steps for winterizing your jet ski. Follow these instructions carefully, referring to your owner’s manual for any specific recommendations for your model.
**1. Preparation and Cleaning**
* **Gather Your Supplies:** Ensure you have all the necessary supplies and tools readily available.
* **Clean the Jet Ski:** Thoroughly wash the exterior of your jet ski with mild soap and water to remove dirt, salt, and grime. Pay special attention to the hull, seat, and engine compartment. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely. Cleaning prevents dirt from trapping moisture and causing corrosion over the winter months.
* **Inspect for Damage:** Carefully inspect the jet ski for any signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or corrosion. Address any issues before storing it for the winter. Small problems can worsen over time if left unattended.
**2. Fuel System Treatment**
* **Add Fuel Stabilizer:** Add fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will prevent the fuel from degrading and forming gum and varnish deposits. A general guideline is usually printed on the stabilizer’s container. If your jet ski holds a significant amount of fuel, you may need to add more.
* **Run the Engine:** Start the engine and let it run for 5-10 minutes to circulate the stabilized fuel throughout the fuel system. This ensures that the fuel stabilizer reaches all the components, including the fuel lines, carburetor (if applicable), and fuel injectors. If you are using a portable tank, you may need to run the engine longer. If you cannot start the engine, move onto the next step and consider taking it to a professional.
* **Fill the Fuel Tank (Optional, but Recommended):** Ideally, you should fill the fuel tank completely to minimize condensation inside the tank. Condensation can lead to corrosion and fuel degradation. If you choose not to fill the tank completely, ensure it is at least half full. This step isn’t always possible, and some people suggest that an empty tank is better to avoid fuel degradation. However, an empty tank can lead to corrosion. Read your owner’s manual to find out what is right for your jet ski.
**3. Engine Flushing**
* **Connect the Flushing Attachment:** Connect a garden hose to the flushing attachment on your jet ski. This attachment is typically located near the jet pump. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location.
* **Start the Engine:** Start the engine and turn on the water supply. Let the engine run for 3-5 minutes to flush out any salt water or debris from the cooling system. **Important:** Never run the engine without water flowing through the cooling system, as this can cause overheating and damage.
* **Turn Off the Water:** Turn off the water supply *before* stopping the engine. This prevents water from being siphoned back into the engine.
* **Disconnect the Flushing Attachment:** Disconnect the garden hose from the flushing attachment.
**4. Fogging the Engine**
* **Locate the Air Intake:** Locate the air intake on your jet ski’s engine. This is where you will spray the fogging oil.
* **Start the Engine (Briefly):** Start the engine and let it run at idle speed. Keep the engine running only for a very short period during the fogging process. You will stall the engine with the fogging oil, so don’t worry about letting it run for a long time.
* **Spray Fogging Oil:** Spray fogging oil directly into the air intake while the engine is running. Continue spraying until the engine sputters and stalls. This coats the internal engine components with a protective layer of oil, preventing corrosion during storage. If you can not find the air intake, spray the fogging oil directly into the spark plug holes with the plugs removed.
* **Remove and Inspect Spark Plugs:** Remove the spark plugs and inspect them for wear or damage. Replace them if necessary. If they look acceptable, clean them with a wire brush and gap them according to your owner’s manual specifications. If you sprayed fogging oil into the spark plug holes, insert the spark plugs after spraying. Otherwise, insert the spark plugs after spraying into the air intake.
* **Spray Fogging Oil into Spark Plug Holes (Alternative Method):** As noted above, if you can’t easily access the air intake, remove the spark plugs and spray fogging oil directly into the cylinders. Replace the spark plugs after spraying.
**5. Exhaust System Treatment**
* **Locate Exhaust Outlet:** Identify the exhaust outlet(s) on your jet ski.
* **Spray with Fogging Oil:** Spray fogging oil into the exhaust outlet(s) to protect the exhaust system from corrosion. This is especially important for jet skis that are used in saltwater environments. Spray for several seconds into each outlet.
**6. Cooling System Drain and Antifreeze**
* **Locate Drain Plugs:** Locate the drain plugs for the cooling system. These are typically located on the engine block or exhaust manifold. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location.
* **Open Drain Plugs:** Open the drain plugs to allow all the water to drain out of the cooling system. Tilt the jet ski to help drain any remaining water. Leaving water in the cooling system can lead to freeze damage. Make sure the plugs are fully open and all the water has been drained.
* **Close Drain Plugs:** Once the cooling system is completely drained, close the drain plugs securely.
* **Add Antifreeze:** Pour PWC-specific antifreeze (propylene glycol) into the cooling system through the designated fill point. Consult your owner’s manual for the fill point location and the amount of antifreeze required. This will protect the engine from freezing. Follow the directions on the antifreeze bottle for the correct mixture. Typically, this step involves disconnecting a hose from the engine and running the jet ski long enough to cycle the antifreeze through the engine. However, you can also pour the antifreeze into a removed hose and then reattach the hose. This can be easier and less messy.
**7. Battery Maintenance**
* **Disconnect the Battery:** Disconnect the battery cables, starting with the negative (-) terminal. This prevents the battery from draining during storage and protects the electrical system from damage.
* **Clean the Battery Terminals:** Clean the battery terminals with a wire brush to remove any corrosion. This ensures a good connection when you reconnect the battery in the spring.
* **Charge the Battery:** Fully charge the battery using a battery charger or maintainer. A fully charged battery is less likely to freeze and will hold its charge longer during storage. A trickle charger or battery maintainer is ideal for long-term storage.
* **Store the Battery:** Store the battery in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Ideally, store it indoors on a wooden surface. Check the battery’s voltage periodically and charge it as needed to maintain a full charge. Storing it on concrete can cause it to discharge more quickly.
**8. Lubrication**
* **Grease Fittings:** Grease all the grease fittings on the jet ski, including the steering cable, jet pump, and other moving parts. This lubricates these components and prevents corrosion.
* **Spray Lubricant:** Spray all metal surfaces with a spray lubricant, such as WD-40 or a corrosion inhibitor. This protects them from rust and corrosion during storage. Focus on areas prone to rust, such as the engine compartment, steering mechanism, and exposed metal parts.
**9. Jet Pump Inspection and Maintenance**
* **Inspect the Impeller:** Inspect the impeller for any damage, such as dents, cracks, or bent blades. A damaged impeller can reduce performance. Remove any debris from the impeller area. Small pebbles and weeds can easily get lodged in the jet pump.
* **Lubricate the Jet Pump:** Lubricate the jet pump with marine grease to protect it from corrosion. Apply grease to the impeller shaft and wear ring. Some jet pumps have a grease fitting for easy lubrication. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
**10. Rodent Prevention**
* **Seal Openings:** Seal any openings in the engine compartment and storage areas to prevent rodents from entering. Use steel wool or other materials that rodents cannot easily chew through.
* **Place Rodent Repellents:** Place rodent repellents, such as mothballs or dryer sheets, in the engine compartment and storage areas. This will help deter rodents from nesting in your jet ski.
* **Consider a Cover:** Use a well-fitting jet ski cover to prevent pests from entering and causing damage.
**11. Storage**
* **Choose a Suitable Location:** Store your jet ski in a cool, dry, and covered location. A garage, shed, or carport is ideal. Avoid storing it outdoors in direct sunlight or exposed to the elements. The location should also be protected from extreme temperature fluctuations.
* **Cover the Jet Ski:** Cover the jet ski with a high-quality, breathable jet ski cover. This will protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture.
* **Support the Jet Ski:** Support the jet ski on a trailer or stand to prevent the hull from warping. Ensure the trailer tires are properly inflated.
* **Check on it Periodically:** Check on your jet ski periodically throughout the winter to ensure that everything is in good condition. Look for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or pest infestation. This is also a good time to recharge the battery if necessary.
## Additional Tips and Considerations
* **Consult Your Owner’s Manual:** Your owner’s manual is your best resource for specific instructions and recommendations for your jet ski model. Always refer to it for detailed information.
* **Consider Professional Winterization:** If you’re not comfortable performing the winterization process yourself, consider hiring a professional marine mechanic. They have the expertise and equipment to ensure that your jet ski is properly winterized.
* **Document the Process:** Keep a record of the winterization process, including the date, steps taken, and any parts replaced. This will be helpful when you de-winterize your jet ski in the spring.
* **Spring De-Winterization:** Remember to de-winterize your jet ski in the spring before using it. This involves reversing the winterization process, such as removing the antifreeze, reconnecting the battery, and inspecting all systems.
* **Insurance:** Ensure your jet ski insurance is up to date, even during the off-season. It can protect you from theft, vandalism, or other unexpected events.
## Troubleshooting
* **Engine Won’t Start After Fogging:** This is normal. The engine is flooded with fogging oil. Remove the spark plugs, crank the engine to clear out the excess oil, and then reinstall the spark plugs. Try starting the engine again.
* **Battery Won’t Hold a Charge:** The battery may be old or damaged. Have it tested and replaced if necessary. Ensure the battery terminals are clean and properly connected.
* **Cooling System Draining Slowly:** Check for any obstructions in the drain plugs or cooling lines. Use a wire or compressed air to clear any blockages.
## Conclusion
Winterizing your jet ski is an essential part of responsible ownership. By following these steps, you can protect your investment and ensure that your jet ski is ready for another season of fun on the water. Taking the time to properly winterize your jet ski will save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. So, gather your supplies, follow these instructions, and enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your jet ski is well-protected during the off-season. Now that you have successfully winterized your jet ski, you can enjoy the winter months knowing that your watercraft will be ready to go when the weather warms up. Happy winterizing, and we’ll see you on the water next season!