When you take your UTV out into the backwoods, it gets dirty fast. While that’s part of their intended purpose as they transport you over muddy, wet territory, at some point it becomes necessary to remove the dirt and grime if only to prevent build-up from damaging delicate engine components and electronics. You also might want your vehicle to be neat and clean in front of a track race or you may just not always want to sit on a vehicle coated in mud. So you’ll need to wash your UTV. We created the following beginner’s guide on how to wash your UTV step by step below.
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How to Wash Your UTV? – Follow This Simple Process
Step 1: Find a place
Start by ensuring you have enough space to do the job right. In the winter, you may be tempted to do it in the garage, and with enough space, this can work. However, garages can sometimes not provide you with the elbow room you need, so think about waiting for a dry, relatively warm day so you can do it in your yard or driveway. If you do this in your yard, ensure you’re careful about introducing new grass, dirt, and weeds to your side by side.
Step 2: Arrange All the Supplies
Next, you have to arrange all the supplies. As tough as your UTV might be, you need to use a product that’s strong enough to get the grime off without damaging the finishing. There are UTV washing kits you can buy, but detergent made for dirt bikes is also just as effective. Also consider getting a pressure washer, scraper, and soft rags to get the job done.
Step 3: Prepare for Washing
There are a few things you need to do before you get your UTV wet. First, you should seal off the air intake and plug up the exhaust so no water can leak inside. You should also ensure any electrical components and fuel systems from water as well. These steps are critical because they will save you from more hard work later when you’ll be attempting to fix the damage that could’ve been avoided.
Step 4: Scrape off Mud & Degrease
The first step in the washing process is to scrape off the layers of mud and grime that have built up on your UTV. You should use a heavy-duty plastic scraper to help get into the nooks and crannies without scratching the plastic. Another useful technique is applying a degreasing solution mixed with water in a pump sprayer, which will help remove any oil or grease that’s built upon the metal parts of your vehicle as well as the engine. If you use a degreasing solution, you’ll need to avoid getting it on the plastics.
Step 5: Wash
Now we’re ready to clear the bulk of the mud from our UTV. Apply thoroughly whatever detergent you’ve chosen to use. If you’re using a pressure washer, it may be a good idea to use a foam gun or foam cannon attachment to ensure a nice even spray. If you’ve decided to prepare your own DIY detergent, be careful that it’s not corrosive to any of the vital parts of the machine. Once applied thoroughly, let it soak deep into the mud for 3 to 5 minutes. It’s tempting to wash the mud off right away, but a little bit of waiting will make the whole procedure much smoother.
Step 6: Rinse
You can choose from two ways to rinse your side by side. One is to use your ordinary hose and nozzle. It works but doesn’t work great against the gunk that is caked-on. Another one is a pressure washer. It delivers a steady stream of high pressure, which helps remove even the most obstinate of grime. Choose between a gas or electric pressure washer. If you hesitate on purchasing your own, look into renting options. Whichever strategy you go with, try to remove as much of the top layer of grime as you can.
Step 7: Scrub
When you rinse your UTV, you are ready to scrub the gunk away. You can use a wash glove or a sponge. For your soap, you can use a bike soap or an automotive detergent. Scrub every surface of your side by side. You can also use a stiff brush to get at those nooks and crannies. If you encounter an extra oily area, spray on some degreaser. After you wait a bit, you can rinse it and the oil off.
Step 8: Dry
You can either let your UTV dry in the sun if the weather is nice, or you can get some lint-free towels and chamois to wipe it down completely. An air compressor can quickly blast away water, which can be a good idea to prevent water from getting into the engine and exhaust and causing rust.
Step 9: Polish & Shine
Last but not least, your UTV will be looking mighty fine if you finish the washing process by polishing it up. Polishing your UTV side-by-side is just like waxing your car after a good wash. You’ll apply a finishing wax that is particularly designed for utility vehicles and before you know it, your UTV will be looking brand spanking new.
Before going to wash your UTV – Also check this video guide
Final Word –
That’s how to wash your UTV easily. At the end of the day, a cleaner machine is going to last longer, so you eventually have to get the grime off. That means you’re going to wash it. You’ll need to regularly wash your UTV to avoid grime corroding its surface. Plus, washing it often helps it maintain an enviable appearance able to turn heads. By following these steps you can easily wash your UTV.