Winter Storage Solutions For Your ATV
From pulling trailers on the farm to having fun in the mud, the fun and excitement of ATV ownership is easy to see. While purchasing one of these recreational vehicles is a great investment, proper storage is necessary for upholding its value and keeping your Honda Side x Side ATV safe. Unfortunately, you may lack the proper space and knowledge needed for protecting your four-wheeler when it is not in use. If you are one of the 13.27 million Americans who owns an ATV, using these simple storage solutions over the winter months is smart.
Secure Location
Theft of four-wheelers and other recreational vehicles is a common issue for many owners, so finding a secure location for storing your ATV is imperative. While obvious to hear, parking it in a garage or outdoor shed is sufficient, but be sure to lock the building to deter theft. If your property does not offer a garage or outdoor building, consider renting a storage unit. Since most areas offer at least one storage facility, your ATV will always be close by and convenient. Although this rental will cost you a monthly fee, it can be a great investment for protecting your ATV.
Proper Parking
For easy access in your own garage, shed, or nearby storage unit, park your ATV on a utility trailer. This ensures you are able to transport your four-wheeler in a safe, efficient manner.
Wash and Dry
If you are storing your ATV for a long period of time, consider washing after your last ride. Pull the utility trailer and ATV through a DIY car wash to rinse off excess dirt and debris. Use a gentle car washing soap to remove dirt, sand, and mud from both the trailer and four-wheeler. For stubborn patches of mud, use the car wash's brushing wand to scrub away the tough residue.
Allow your trailer and ATV to dry before parking them in your secure location.
Maintenance Tips
Running through treacherous terrain and hauling heavy equipment and supplies can wreak havoc on your ATV's motor, so servicing your engine and tires is smart. Use the following maintenance tips before storing your ATV:
- Fuel – After driving, allow your ATV to cool for a few minutes before turning off the engine. Once the engine rests for at least 10 minutes, add a fuel stabilizer into the lines. This will protect the interior fuel lines while in storage over the winter.
- Oil – Before storing your ATV away for a few weeks or months, change the oil and filter. Dirty oil that sits for long periods will eventually erode the engine.
- Battery – Proper temperatures are important for the battery life and ATV mechanics. Remove the battery from your ATV and store inside your home. If your storage location is heated, the battery can safely be left with the ATV. However, you should unplug the battery to prevent corrosion.
- Tires – As your ATV sits in storage, the tires will begin to deflate. This is impossible to avoid, but inflating your tires to the highest possible air pressure before storing can reduce the total amount of deflation over time. Check the air pressure of each tire periodically while it is in storage. In addition, be sure your tires have adequate air pressure before driving. Considering 90 percent of trail difficulties stem from a tire failure, protecting the air pressure and tread is imperative.
Proper storage is not only important for your ATV's safety, but also for ensuring it is in proper working order. Using these tips, you can protect and maintain your four-wheeler for safe, enjoyable use.