Don't let winter destroy your investment! Marland Enterprises in Cazenovia, NY, reveals professional secrets to prevent snowmobile breakdowns before they ruin your season.
The excitement of fresh powder and groomed trails is just weeks away, but nothing ruins a perfect snowmobiling day like being stranded miles from the trailhead. Smart riders know they can prevent snowmobile breakdowns with proper pre-season preparation, and choosing the right synthetic lubricants can make all the difference between epic rides and costly repairs.
Before you fire up that engine for the first ride, your snowmobile needs attention after months of storage. The extreme conditions snowmobiles face – sub-zero temperatures, high RPMs, and constant snow ingestion – demand superior protection that conventional oils simply cannot provide.
Start your pre-season checklist by inspecting all fluid levels and conditions. Old oil that has been sitting through summer storage contains moisture, acids, and contaminants that can cause severe engine damage. The chaincase, often overlooked, requires special attention since it operates in harsh conditions with constant exposure to snow and ice.
AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil stands as the gold standard for two-stroke snowmobile engines. This premium synthetic formula delivers unmatched protection against piston scuffing, ring sticking, and exhaust power valve deposits that commonly prevent snowmobile breakdowns during critical moments on the trail.
Interceptor's advanced synthetic base stocks maintain consistent viscosity even in extreme cold, ensuring proper lubrication from when you pull the cord. Unlike petroleum-based oils that thicken in cold weather, Interceptor flows freely at temperatures as low as -54°F, providing immediate protection to critical engine components.
The oil's superior detergent and dispersant additives keep your engine cleaner longer by preventing carbon buildup on pistons and in exhaust ports. This cleanliness translates directly to sustained power output and reduced maintenance throughout the season. AMSOIL’s Interceptor oil also burns cleaner than conventional oils, reducing smoke output and spark plug fouling.
Your snowmobile's chaincase endures tremendous stress, transferring power from the engine to the track while operating in freezing conditions. AMSOIL Synthetic Chaincase Oil provides exceptional protection for chains, gears, and bearings while resisting the water contamination that destroys conventional lubricants.
This specialized formula maintains its lubricating properties even when contaminated with snow and ice, a common occurrence in real-world riding conditions. The synthetic base stocks resist oxidation and thermal breakdown, extending drain intervals and reducing maintenance costs. Proper chaincase lubrication is essential to prevent snowmobile breakdowns that leave you walking back to the truck.
Drain all old fluids three weeks before your first ride and inspect drive components for wear. Replace spark plugs, check the belt's condition, and ensure all grease fittings are adequately lubricated. This is also the perfect time to inspect your track for damage and verify proper tension.
Two weeks out, fill your engine with fresh AMSOIL Interceptor and your chaincase with AMSOIL Synthetic Chaincase Oil. Run the engine briefly to circulate new oil, then check for leaks. Inspect your suspension components and verify proper shock oil levels.
One week before riding, perform a complete systems check, including throttle operation, brake function, and steering components. Top off coolant levels and ensure your emergency kit includes spare oil, tools, and supplies.
For the snowmobile enthusiast in your life, nothing says "I care about your adventures" like premium AMSOIL protection. A complete fluid change kit containing Interceptor and Chaincase Oil is an ideal gift showing genuine thoughtfulness while providing practical value.
Consider pairing these essentials with AMSOIL's complete line of snowmobile products, including Engine Fogging Oil for end-of-season protection and Metal Protector for preventing corrosion during storage months.