Storing your XTV
Cleaning
The composite body of the XTV can be cleaned with regular soap and water. Dirt can be flushed out of the lower body section by opening the drain plugs and flushing the area with a high-pressure spray from a pressure washer or garden hose. Once the vehicle is dry, the drive chains will need to be relubricated.
If you have an air-cooled engine like the Kohler Command Pro, it’s a good idea to clean the fins. Wait until the engine is cold and use a brush or dry rag to remove buildup from the engine. Never spray the engine with water: it can force moisture into the crankcase, contaminating the oil.
Fuel
Check your engine owner’s manual for storage recommendations: manufacturers recommend draining the fuel system completely on carburetor-equipped engines if the vehicle will be stored over three months, while fuel injected gas engines can be stored with treated fuel.
If you are stabilizing the fuel, add the stabilizer and fill the tank completely. Let the engine run a few minutes to pump the treated fuel through the fuel system.
If you are draining the fuel system, use a siphon hose to drain the fuel in the tank. Start the engine and let it run until it dies to remove any remaining fuel.
Kohler diesel engines can be stored for up to 6 months without any preventative maintenance. If the engine will be stored longer, add a diesel stabilizer to the fuel and run the engine for 5-10 minutes. Shut off the engine and drain the fuel tank.
Oil
Over time, used oil can break down and contaminants can attach metal inside the engine. On Kohler Aegis and Command Pro engines, the oil should be changed while the engine is still warm so that the oil flows out freely. Remove the spark plugs and add about one ounce (one tablespoon) of clean engine oil to each cylinder through the plug hole. Reinstall the plugs. This will keep the piston rings lubricated during storage.
On diesel engines, if the engine will be stored for over 6 months, replace the oil and filter. Apply a light coating of oil or silicone spray to unpainted external surfaces on the engine.
Electrical System
Argo recommends removing the battery from the vehicle instead of keeping it in the vehicle hooked up to a trickle charger. Clean and recharge the battery, then coat the battery terminals with a terminal protectant spray or a multi-purpose grease to prevent corrosion. Store the battery in a cool, dry place. Recharge the battery monthly.
Inspect the wiring harness for damage and loose connections. Spray the wiring harness and electrical connections with a silicone-based lubricant to prevent corrosion.
Raising the Vehicle
To prevent flat spots on the tires, the XTV should be stored off of the ground. To do this, place blocks underneath the front and rear corners of the vehicle next to the tires.
Getting the Parts and Service You Need for Your Argo XTV
If you need help with your XTV, visit the experts at one of the East’s largest Argo dealers, Shank’s Argo. We have decades of experience with outdoor equipment, so we can get you the right parts and accessories and do repair work so you can keep your vehicle in top shape. We’re located at 4900 Molly Pitcher Highway in Chambersburg, PA. That’s one mile east of I-81 via Exit 10 to Marion.