SNOWMOBILES IN ILLINOIS
Illinois’ residents can relate to the unbearable winter temperatures and the annual snowfall of 38 inches per year. Having a snowmobile during the snowy season can be a lot of fun! Not only for its utilitarian uses but for recreation. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is a great place to start, if you have a snowmobile or are considering getting one. This site includes a “Code of Ethics”, a “Parks with Snowmobile Trails Map”, It even advises you as to the law on registering a snowmobile after a purchase. Also, be aware that, an Illinois resident having a valid out-of-state snowmobile registration must also have a valid Illinois snowmobile registration if operating in Illinois with the exception of operating on their own property.
SNOWMOBILING IS RECREATIONAL AND FUNCTIONAL
Depending on the amount of snowfall, many, especially in rural areas use their snowmobiles to actually get around. After a big snow storm, a snowmobile may be the only mode of transportation until deep snow is cleared out of driveways, roads and streets.
Even after a big snow, many in Illinois see snowmobiles and snowmobile tracks along side country roads. It’s part of the fun being in the Midwest.
TYPES OF SNOWMOBILES
There are seven types of snowmobiles including trail snowmobile, port trail snowmobile, touring snowmobile, performance snowmobile, utility snowmobile, crossover snowmobile and mountain snowmobile. Depending on what snowmobile you own, having insurance on it is a must.
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There are over 1.2 million snowmobiles registered in the U.S. - Snowmobiling is great exercise bringing people outdoors interacting with nature and each other. It is an invigorating sport, great for stress release and good mental health.
- Always check the maintenance of your snowmobile before using, regarding the handbook given when purchased
- Join a snowmobile association club for help with questions and examinations
- Common injuries due to snowmobiles include shock, frostbite and hypothermia. Always keep a first aid kit handy and consider purchasing gloves designed to take, not only cold weather, but cold/windy/wet weather (remember, you’re moving and spraying snow in cold weather).
TAKING CARE OF YOUR SNOWMOBILE
Snowmobiles are great fun but not so great if they don’t start when you want them to. Remember to “summer-ize” your vehicle when storing it. It’s the opposite of winterizing it a summer-only vehicle. Taking the necessary steps to give your snowmobile some TLC will go a long way and save you a lot of headache.
- Run the engine with a fuel conditioner like sea foam.
- Or…drain the gas tank completely (you’ll still want to run it with some conditioner in it before you do this).
- Give it a good washing (it probably has mud and some salt residue on it).
- If inside storage is possible try covering it.
- Prop it up on blocks (if possible).
- If your snowmobile has a battery, disconnect the cables.
- Put somewhere it won’t get hit.
- Change the insurance level (consult your insurance agent).
Insuring you snowmobile is very easy and reasonably-priced. If you currently have an insurance policy on it, check to see if your premiums go up during the “active months”. If you are unsure or need answers on how snowmobile insurance works, call Herbers Insurance at (331) 223-9788 for a quote and options.
