Tech Tues | Winterizing Your Honda ATV

Hibernate Your ATV

This video from Honda and its instructions are from 2011, but are still good basic tips for winterizing your ATV or UTV.

VIDEO | Winterizing Your Honda ATV

Here are the instructions suggested by the video:

Storage

Store your ATV in an area that is dry secure out of the weather and out of the way but accessible for periodic checks.

Fuel Tank

Fuel tank preparation is a vital part of winter storage. One method for fuel-injected models is to fill the tank completely with fresh fuel up to the bottom of the fuel filler neck. If you’re certain that you’ll not be riding the vehicle for at least four to six weeks, add a fuel stabilizer to the tank before filling it with fuel.

Oil

You should change the engine oil prior to storage. Even if the oil is not yet due for a change, cylinder walls can rust if the engine is not run for several weeks.

Spark Plugs

To prevent rusting during storage, first remove the spark plug from each cylinder and pour in a tablespoon of clean engine oil to coat the cylinder walls. Cover the spark plug holes with a piece of clean cloth, turn the key or ignition switch to the run position and crank the engine over through several revolutions to coat the cylinder walls with oil. Then reinstall the spark plugs.

Battery

Remove the battery for storage. Charge the battery using a charger with a charging rate that is 10% of the battery’s ampere hour. Or consider using a trickle charger, as they can be left connected for long periods of time without causing damage to the battery.

Other Fluids

If the brake or clutch fluids haven’t been changed in the past two years or 12,000 miles, do it now.
If your machine is liquid cooled and the coolant hasn’t been changed in the past two years or 24,000 miles, do it now.

Tires

Check that the tire air pressures are correct. Check for correct air pressures at least once a month to prevent flat spotting the tires.

Cover

Tuck in your ATV with a breathable cover, and you’re set for the winter.