How to Winterize a Jet Ski

Jet skis and boats require maintenance at the end of the summer season, so that they will last longer. Winterizing these vessels prevents rust and damage to the engine. You can choose to take your jet ski into a maintenance shop at the end of the season or winterize it yourself. Find out how to winterize a jet ski.

Steps

Part 1 Preparing for Winterization

1. 1 Read your owner's manual. The manual may have tips about special winterization procedures that are unique to your personal watercraft (PWC).
2. 2 Decide when your last ride of the season will be. Plan to winterize the jet ski directly after the last ride.
3. 3 Unload the PWC from the water. Secure it on the trailer. Drive just a few feet onto the ramp and stop.
   • In order to drain the water, the stern will need to be higher than the bow of your jet ski.
4. 4 Drain the water from the engine.
   • Start the engine while it is out of the water. Turn the steering handle from side to side. Water will wick off from the engine.
   • Turn the engine off after 30 seconds. Stop the engine and let it rest for 30 seconds. Start it again twice more with a rest period in between.

Part 2 Cleaning the Craft

1. 1 Take the jet ski to the location where you will store it. Place it on a stand where it will sit above the ground.
   • Your storage area should be far away from any flammable materials. Winterized jet skis are usually stored with some gas in the tank, so use caution.
   • Make sure your jet ski is level on its base. If it is on a trailer, place wooden planks behind the wheels.
    
2. 2 Wash the jet ski thoroughly. Buy some car washing soap and use warm water if possible.
   • Clean the jet ski immediately after your last ride, if possible. The algae and other dirt will be easier to loosen from the body.
   • Use a large, soft sponge to cover the exterior with warm water and soap. Go over each area several times, since the grime is tougher to remove than car dirt.
   • Use a non-abrasive brush to scrub harder near the bottom of your jet ski. You will need to remove all the algae.
   • Rinse the jet ski thoroughly. Dry it with soft towels completely.
3. 3 Check the hull for water. If there is water, dry it with soft towels.

Part 3 Waxing your Jet Ski

1. 1 Buy car wax to apply to your jet ski. Some boat supply stores may recommend more specialized products.
2. 2 Apply the wax to the exterior of the jet ski. Allow it to sit according to package directions. Wipe off the wax.
3. 3 Apply multi-purpose lube to metal hinges and metal handles. Apply a light coat.

Part 4 Using Gas and Oil

1. 1 Fill the jet ski gas tank. You will reduce the risk of condensation in the engine by storing the jet ski with gas.
2. 2 Add gas stabilizer to the gas tank. Read the directions to see how much you will need to add. Stabilizer keeps the carburetors from getting clogged.
3. 3 Start the engine. Run it for 30 seconds.
   • This will allow the stabilizer to reach all areas of the engine and remove excess water.
4. 4 Remove the air cleaners. You will get better access to the interior of the engine compartments. You will want to replace the air cleaners after you oil the carburetors.
5. 5 Start the engine. Spray fogging oil into both carburetors until the engine stalls.
6. 6 Remove your jet ski's spark plugs. Ensure your wires are grounded before you continue.
7. 7 Spray fogging oil into the holes. Place a cloth over the holes.
   • Press the start button on the jet ski. This will disperse the oil, but your craft will not start. Replace the spark plugs.
8. 8 Unlatch the seat of the jet ski to allow trapped water to evaporate.

Part 5 Detaching the Battery

1. 1 Disconnect the battery. Detach the negative terminal before the positive terminal.
2. 2 Store the battery in a garage, where it receives some warmth. Store it on a rubber mat instead of the concrete.
3. 3 Put a steel wool rag inside your jet ski's exhaust. This will prevent nesting bugs.
4. 4Place a tarp over the machine.