Preparing motorcycles, snowmobiles, lawn mowers and other equipment for storage is important even where seasonal changes aren’t pronounced.
Gasoline can break down in as little as 30 days, causing performance issues, while rust and corrosion can form on internal engine parts. Proper storage procedures should be followed any time equipment sits for extended periods. Many of the storage procedures listed below are common from one application to the next; however, check the owner’s manual for specific instructions.
MOTORCYCLES
- Wash and dry. Contaminants can corrode exterior surfaces, particularly chrome.
- Change the oil and filter. AMSOIL Synthetic Motorcycle Oils are formulated with rust inhibitors for maximum protection during storage.
- Stabilize the fuel. AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer (AST) reduces the oxidation that occurs when fuel is stored for extended periods, improving performance, extending equipment life and decreasing maintenance expenses. If storing longer than three-four months, add Gasoline Stabilizer prior to the final outing of the season to ensure complete distribution throughout the fuel system. AMSOIL Quickshot® (AQS) also stabilizes fuel during short-term storage under four months. For maximum effectiveness, use Quickshot year-round.
- Connect a float charger or remove the battery. Doing so maintains the battery’s charge. Store the battery off the ground.
- Raise and cover the bike.
OUTBOARDS
- Stabilize the fuel prior to the final outing of the season; use Quickshot if storing less than four months or Gasoline Stabilizer if longer than four months.
- Change the lower-unit gear lube. Water left in the lower unit can cause rust and corrosion on bearings, in addition to degrading seals. It’s important to replace old fluid with fresh gear lube prior to storage. AMSOIL Synthetic Marine Gear Lube (AGM) provides excellent protection in lower units.
- Fog the engine (if applicable). AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil (FOG) provides superior film retention for long-term protection against corrosion and dry starts, helping extend engine life. Its all-position spray nozzle allows contents to be dispensed when the can is oriented at any angle, including upside down.
• Change the oil and filter (if applicable). The oil accumulates acidic by-products throughout the season, which can harm seals and other engine components during storage unless drained. AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke® Marine Synthetic Motor Oils (WCT, WCF, WCM) offers excellent wear protection and viscosity stability, low volatility and excellent low-temperature fluidity. It is certified to meet NMMA FC-W (Catalyst Compatible) performance specifications and is recommended for virtually all makes of outboards.
PERSONAL WATERCRAFT (PWC)
- Stabilize the fuel prior to the final outing of the season; use Quickshot if storing less than four months or Gasoline Stabilizer if longer than four months.
- Wash and dry, especially if used in salt water.
- Flush the engine. Most PWCs use the water in which they operate as the source of cooling water for the engine. In cold climates, flush the water and replace with antifreeze. Use straight water to flush PWCs operated in salt water. Water allowed to freeze can cause expensive damage, including cracked cylinder heads or engine blocks. Consult the owner’s manual for flushing instructions.
- Change the oil and filter (if applicable).
- Remove the battery and store off the ground.
- Remove the battery and store off the ground.
- Fog the engine (if applicable).
LAWN & GARDEN EQUIPMENT
- Stabilize the fuel prior to the final outing of the season; use Quickshot if storing less than four months or Gasoline Stabilizer if longer than four months.
- Fog the engine (if applicable).
- Change the oil and filter. AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Synthetic Small Engine Oils provide superior protection in the hot-temperature, severe-service operating conditions of both gasoline and diesel fueled small engines.
- Remove grass, mud and debris. Thoroughly clean surfaces and apply AMSOIL Metal Protector (AMP) to exposed blades and other metal surfaces to inhibit rust and corrosion.
SNOWMOBILES
- Stabilize the fuel prior to the final outing of the season; use Quickshot if storing less than four months or Gasoline Stabilizer if longer than four months.
- Grease the suspension points. Greasing prior to storage removes water and debris from critical suspension points, protecting against rust and corrosion. AMSOIL Synthetic Water Resistant Grease (GWR) and Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease (GLC) offer excellent friction-reduction capabilities and corrosion protection. Synthetic Water Resistant Grease resists water washout, making it excellent for snowmobiles frequently exposed to water, snow and ice.
- Fog the engine (if applicable).
- Apply AMSOIL Metal Protector (AMP) to exposed metal if stored outdoors. When dry, AMSOIL Metal Protector leaves a clear, invisible coating that protects from rust and corrosion. For even more protection try AMSOIL Heavy Duty Metal Protector (AMH). When dry, it leaves a light brown waxy coating that stands up extremely well to outdoor conditions.
- Change the oil and filter (if applicable). AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Small Engine Oils provide superior protection in both hot and cold temperature extremes.
- Remove or disconnect the battery and store off the ground.
Not sure what you need for your equipment? Go to the AMSOIL Lookup Page, select your equipment type, enter the required information and get specific recommendations for your applications.