Nothing beats a relaxing afternoon on the sea on a jet ski. You want this sensation of freedom to stay forever as your watercraft zips over the aquatic landscape and makes exhilarating jumps over waves. If you take proper care of all of your watercraft, including jet skis, you’ll be able to enjoy many more great summers like this one. Maintain the condition of your jet ski by appropriately winterizing it or putting it in storage by Patterson Lakes Marina.

• Remove any salt or debris from the outside

Whether you’re riding your jet ski in the ocean, lake, or bay, you’ll come across debris that needs to be cleaned before being stored. Dirt, sand, and salt can corrode the jet ski and make it look old. Remove all of your belongings from storage rooms to clean the exterior. Then, to get rid of any algae or dirt, wash the hull. Fresh water should be used to remove any salt residue, and all surfaces should be wiped clean with a microfiber cloth until they shine. Leave the storage compartments slightly ajar for airflow to ensure that no moisture gets trapped inside.

• Exhaust should be prepared for storage

Your jet ski’s exhaust system must be properly winterized to avoid damage during the off-season. It won’t last long if it isn’t properly prepared before being stored in a chilly environment. Remove any sand or dirt from your exhaust system by flushing it with water. Then, at idle, run the engine for 2 minutes, stop the water, and turn it off. Then combine one part water with one part RV antifreeze to form a solution. Then, using water, flush the antifreeze outlet. Send the 50/50 solution into the exhaust with a bilge or water pump, and repeat the flushing operation. To conclude, rev the throttle for a few seconds to completely drain the exhaust system.

• Fuel should be drained or stabilized

Stagnant fuel is a serious concern for any vehicle that is being stored. Drain the fuel system or apply a fuel stabilizer before storing your jet ski for an extended period of time. If you’re going to use a fuel stabilizer, make sure it’s fully integrated by running the engine in short spurts. Because each storage facility has its own requirements for fuel storage, check with yours to see if you need empty or stabilize the fuel in your jet ski.

It’s critical to empty the engine so that these particles don’t accumulate during the winter. Tilt the jet ski up and turn the handlebars to each side to accomplish this. To ensure your safety, enlist the assistance of a companion to assist you in controlling the jet ski.