Prepping your Polaris XPEDITION for storage starts with making any necessary repairs and washing the exterior of the vehicle. Keeping your vehicle clean not only will improve its appearance, but it also can extend the life of various components.
Polaris recommends washing the vehicle by hand or with a garden hose, using a pail of mild soap and water. Certain products, including insect repellents and chemicals, will damage plastic surfaces. Do not allow these types of products to contact the vehicle.
- Use a professional-type washing cloth, cleaning the upper body first and the lower parts last.
- Rinse with clean water frequently.
- Dry surfaces with a chamois to prevent water spots.
Other washing tips:
- Avoid the use of harsh cleaners, which can scratch the finish.
- Do not use medium to heavy duty compounds on the finish.
- Always use clean cloths and pads for cleaning and polishing. Old or reused cloths and pads may contain dirt particles that will scratch the finish.
- Grease all zerk fittings immediately after washing. Allow the engine to run for a while to evaporate any water that may have entered the engine or exhaust system.
- Water in the PVT system could cause the drive belt to become wet and slip in the clutches. Always avoid spraying water directly toward any intake pre-filters. If water does enter the PVT intake, follow the procedure on PVT Drying in your Owner's Manual.
- Do not use high-speed polishers/buffers on body panels, as damage or color fading may occur.
- Do not spray water directly into the intake ducts.
If you use a pressure washer to clean your vehicle, exercise extreme caution. The maximum pressure should not exceed 3000 PSI, 2.5 GPM with a 40° pressure washer nozzle. Make sure to keep the pressure washer nozzle 2 feet away from the vehicle. Exercise extreme caution. The water may damage components and could remove paint and labels. Avoid directing the water stream at the following items:
- Wheel bearings
- Radiator
- Transmission seals
- Brakes
- Cab and body panels
- Labels and decals
- Electrical components and wiring
- Air intake components
- Throttle and shift cables and controls
- Seat belts and seats
If an informational or graphic label becomes illegible or comes off, contact your Polaris Dealer to obtain a replacement. Replacement safety labels are provided by Polaris at no charge.
When polishing your vehicle, Polaris recommends the use of common household aerosol furniture polish for use on the finish. Follow the instructions on the container. Avoid the use of automotive products, some of which can scratch the finish of your vehicle. Always use clean cloths and pads for cleaning and polishing. Old or reused cloths and pads may contain dirt particles that will scratch the finish.
For more cleaning tips, listen to the Cleaning: It's Not Just About Looking Good episode of the Polaris Podcast or watch the Shop Talk video below.
Stabilize the Fuel
- Fill the fuel tank.
- Add Polaris Carbon Clean Fuel Treatment or Polaris Fuel Stabilizer or equivalent fuel treatments or stabilizers. Follow the instructions on the container for the recommended amount. Carbon Clean removes water from fuel systems, stabilizes fuel and removes carbon deposits from pistons, rings, valves and exhaust systems.
- Allow the engine to run for 15-20 minutes to allow the stabilizer to disperse through the entire fuel delivery system.
Vehicle Maintenance
Complete the following maintenance procedures:
- Oil and Filter Change
- Air Filter Inspection and Replacement
- Front Gearcase Fluid Replacement
- Transmission Fluid Replacement
- Check the brake fluid (change every two years and any time the fluid looks dark or contaminated)
- Check the coolant (test strength/fill)
Fog the Engine
1. Treat the fuel system with Polaris Carbon Clean or other equivalent fuel treatment. Follow the instructions on the container. Start the engine. Allow it to idle for several minutes so the Carbon Clean reaches the injectors. Stop the engine.
2. Remove the spark plugs and add 1–1.5 oz. (29.5–44 cc.) of engine oil. To access the plug holes, use a section of clear 6 mm (1/4”) hose and a small plastic squeeze bottle filled with the pre-measured amount of oil. Do this carefully! If you miss the plug holes, oil will drain from the spark plug cavities into the hole at the front of the cylinder head, and appear to be an oil leak.
3. Reinstall the spark plugs. Torque to specification.
4. Apply dielectric grease to the inside of each spark plug cap. Do not reinstall the cap onto the plug at this step.
5. Turn the engine over several times. Oil will be forced in and around the piston rings and ring lands, coating the cylinder with a protective film of fresh oil.
6. Reinstall the spark plug caps.
7. If a Polaris fuel system additive is not used, fuel tank, fuel lines and injectors should be completely drained of gasoline.
Battery Maintenance
If you do not drive the vehicle for more than two weeks, Polaris recommends using a BatteryMINDer® 2012 AGM - 2 AMP charger, which can be ordered through your dealer.
Polaris provides a charging accessory with your vehicle that allows easy connection to the battery through the vehicle trickle charge port, located on the front grille. During charging, place the charger outside of the vehicle and protect it from moisture.
If you plan to store the vehicle for three months or longer, remove the battery from the vehicle, then store the battery in a cool and dry location. Continue to maintain the battery with the BatteryMINDer® 2012 AGM - 2 AMP charger.
When using an automatic charger other than a BatteryMINDer® 2012-AGM - 2 AMP charger, refer to the charger manufacturer's instructions for recharging. If using a constant current charger (instead of BatteryMINDer® 2012 AGM - 2 AMP charger), use the guidelines in your Owner's Manual.
Storage Area and Covers
Be sure the storage area is well ventilated. Cover the vehicle with a genuine Polaris cover or similar that allows for adequate airflow. Do not use plastic or coated material, as these materials do not allow enough ventilation to prevent condensation and may promote corrosion and oxidation.
Removal from Storage
Warning: Engine exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide and can cause loss of consciousness or death. Never run an engine in an enclosed area.
1. Check the battery electrolyte level and charge the battery if necessary. Install it in the vehicle. Make sure the battery vent hose is routed properly and that it's not pinched or restricted in any way.
2. Make sure spark plugs are tight.
3. Fill the fuel tank with fuel.
4. Check all the points listed in the Daily Pre-Ride Inspection. Tightness of the bolts, nuts and other fasteners should be checked by an authorized dealer or other qualified service facility.
5. Lubricate at the intervals outlined in the Polaris Maintenance Schedule in your Owner's Manual.
For more information, see your authorized Polaris Dealer. Find a dealer near you with the Dealer Locator.
Maintenance tips, procedures and specifications can be found in your Owner's Manual.
To find diagrams and replacement part numbers, use the online parts catalog.
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