15 Nov Snowmobile Maintenance 101: Mistakes to Avoid

Whether you consider yourself a seasoned rider or have just purchased your first snowmobile, staying on top of maintenance is key. When you take proper care of your snowmobile, you can keep it running smoothly and reliably for many miles to come. Likewise, you can save yourself some hard-earned money on repairs.

So, what are some of the most common snowmobile maintenance mistakes—and how can you avoid them?

1. Foregoing a Wash

Let’s face it. Your snowmobile is going to get dirty on the trails. And while it may seem like overkill to wash your snowmobile after every time you ride it, the reality is that regular washing can help to protect the chassis from rust, corrosion, and other damage. If you don’t have time to give your snowmobile a full wash after each session, even spraying it down thoroughly with a hose can make a big difference.

2. Ignoring Fluid Gauges

Just as you would check the fluids in your automobile every so often, it’s important to do the same with your snowmobile. Topping off fluids and changing them when needed will help to keep your snowmobile running as smoothly and safely as possible. Specifically, be sure to follow your manufacturer’s instructions regarding chaincase oil changes and other fluid checks; topically, snowmobiles will need oil changes approximately every 2,500 miles.

You can learn more about changing the chaincase oil on your snowmobile here.

3. Not Letting the Engine Warm Up

Sure, your snowmobile is designed to run in the cold. However, it’s still a good idea to let the engine on your snowmobile warm up a little before you go full throttle. By letting your snowmobile’s engine idle for a few minutes before you begin your ride, you’ll be allowing all the necessary fluids to run through the system and warm up each of the parts. This, in turn, can help to prolong the life of each part while ensuring a smoother ride. This is especially true when you’re riding in very frigid temperatures.

4. Skipping Key Inspections

Your owner’s manual should come with detailed information on the recommended intervals for certain inspections and maintenance. Be sure to refer to your manual and follow all manufacturer recommendations. For example, you may need to check the chain tension on your chaincase every so often, as well as inspect the hyrax on the bottom of your suspension rails for wear. Being proactive about these inspections is the best way to stay on top of maintenance on your snowmobile and be aware of potential repairs that may be needed.

Avoid Maintenance Problems on the Trail

Owning a snowmobile is certainly an adventure—and with proper maintenance, you can enjoy hitting the trails on your snowmobile for many seasons to come. Just be sure to avoid these all-too-common maintenance mistakes so that you can get the most out of your ride. And remember, when it comes to choosing the right chaincase oil for your snowmobile, AMSOIL always has you covered.