Kawasaki STX-15F - Manual (Page 396)

15-2 STORAGE
Preparation for Storage
During the winter, or whenever the watercraft will not be
in use for a long period of time, proper storage is essential.
It consists of checking and replacing missing or worn parts;
lubricating parts to ensure that they do not become rusted;
and, in general, preparing the watercraft so that when the
time comes to use it again, it will be in top condition.
NOTE
○
Personal watercraft is not meant to be left in the water
for extended periods. Continuous exposure to water
over a long period of time will cause the hull paint to
bubble and peel. It also causes electrolytic erosion of
the metal parts of the pump, decreasing its service life.
Larger boats which are left in the water must be hauled
out periodically, so the bottom of the hull can be scraped
and repainted with anti-fouling paint. They also usually
have a sacrificial anode to reduce electrolytic erosion of
metal parts in contact with the water.
Cooling System
•
Clean the cooling system (see the Periodic Maintenance
chapter).
Bilge System
•
Clean the bilge system (see the Periodic Maintenance
chapter). Before reconnecting the hoses to the plastic
breather fitting, blow air through both hoses [A] to force
all water out of the bilge system.
Engine Oil
•
Change the engine oil (see Engine Lubrication System in
Periodic Maintenance chapter).
Fuel System
WARNING
Gasoline is extremely flammable and can be explo-
sive under certain conditions. Pull the lanyard key
off the stop button. Do not smoke. Make sure the
area is well ventilated and free from any source of
flame or sparks; this includes any appliance with a
pilot light.
•
Drain the fuel tank. This should be done with a siphon or
pump.
[A] Siphon Hose
NOTE
○
Lift the stern upward a little so that fuel and water in the
bottom of the fuel tank may flow toward the fuel filter to
completely drain the fuel tank.