How to Winterize Yamaha Jet Skis

Winterizing a jet ski is a project that a water vehicle owner needs to undertake when you are not going to get out on the water anymore for the season. In northern climates this is usually around September. Keeping the vehicle in good condition will require minimum maintenance in the spring for the first trip out and eliminates water from important parts of the vehicle so they will not freeze and suffer any damage.

Things You'll Need

  • Spray lubricant such as Gumout
  • Spark plug socket and ratchet
  • Spark plug
  • Air filter
  • Cover
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pull the jet ski onto the trailer and remove it from the water but do not take it off of the angle. This will help drain the water from the watercraft. Start the motor. Do not let it run for more than 10 seconds. This will blow excess water out of the craft jet system. Do this two or three times.

    • 2

      Take the watercraft to a local car wash and wash the hull. Do this before storage because you will have a harder time removing the buildup of algae in the spring. When you are finished start the engine again for about 15 seconds to blow any water that may have entered the system.

    • 3

      Fill the gas tank to 3/4 full. Do not fill any more than this. A full tank may freeze and cause damage. Most Yamaha models are two-stroke motors, meaning that the oil and gas need to be mixed. If this is the case, make sure that you mix them in a can and then add it to the tank.

    • 4

      Park the vehicle in the spot it will be in all winter. Tip it slightly so that water will continue to drip out of the jet if it rains or snows. Remove the spark plug with the spark plug socket and ratchet. Replace the plug. Replace the air filter. This is connected to the air intake of the engine and will just pop out inside its case. Cover the vehicle with a waterproof tarp or customized cover.