Your sled works hard to take you out on the trails all winter long, so give it a little love. Here’s a guide to some useful snowmobile maintenance tips that are easy to DIY (do it yourself). Check this list before the season starts, at the end of the season, and a few times midseason. If you’ve got any questions, hit us up at Yellowstone Adventures, conveniently located in West Yellowstone, Montana.

Study Up

Reviewing your owner’s manual for your specific model is a good way to start. If you don’t have one, find it online. Your manual will give you a clear idea of the tasks you should perform and how often. Some tasks are simple and easy to handle on your own, but others might require professional assistance. Our service department is standing by!

Keep It Clean 

Make cleaning a regular part of your routine. It’s not just about appearance, it’s about function. The friction from built-up grime and dirt can actually do serious damage to important components.

Keep your sled covered and protected from debris when you’re not using it, and cover it when you transport it in a truck bed or open trailer.

Top Off Fluids

Like any motorized vehicle, your sled requires a number of fluids to run smoothly and efficiently. These fluids work hard, wear out, and have to be replaced on scheduled intervals.

Fluids that require routine attention include fuel, coolant, oil, radiator fluid, brake fluid, and so on. Keep an eye on your fluid levels and top them off to maintain optimal performance. Observe the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding how often to check and change fluids. When you add fluids, also check the oil filter, fuel filter, and air filter. Replace them if they’re too dirty.

Lubricate the critical moving parts that require grease such as steering components, bearings, drivetrains, and both suspensions.

Check Tracks and Skis

Make sure that your track is correctly aligned before riding. After you’ve got it aligned, loosen one of the rear-axle bolts to adjust the tension. Next, straddle the seat and move the handlebars. Make sure your sled stills seems properly aligned.

The carbides are the protruding parts at the bottom of the skis that assist with steering. Check them regularly for signs of major wear, and replace them as needed.

Follow our snowmobile maintenance guide, and you’ll get better, longer service, and fewer surprises from your sled. Keeping up with maintenance, checking fluids, and avoiding the wear and tear of a dirty sled will go a long way to make your snowmobile perform at its best.

Let us help you maintain your snowmobile and gear up for the riding season. Come see us at Yellowstone Adventures in West Yellowstone, Montana!