Suggestions before starting after long term storage
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Joined: Nov 2008
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From: Waconia, MN
Suggestions before starting after long term storage
Just picked up a 1981 Tour Glide Classic that has been stored for at least 2 years outside. Bike has 24k on the odometer and appears to be all original and stock. Looking for recommendations on steps to take before trying to start the motor.
HDF Community Team
Joined: Dec 2005
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From: NC USA
Naturally, check all the fluids. If the oil is low but visible in the tank, do not add any. They have a tendency to leak into the crankcase over time and some, if not most will return to the tank when started. Also it will likely spit out a good bit from the crankcase breather tube. Not sure where it's routed on that model but it comes out of the case on the right side, beneath and behind the oil pump.
The fuel system is a 50/50 on being gummed up or not. Remove the bowl from the carb and check for moisture and/or varnish. I've seen them sit for years with no problems later and others having sit for a few months that were plugged up. Completely drain the fuel from the tank thru the petcock on the reserve position and look in the tank with a flash light for contamination. If it looks good, new fuel before starting.
Clean the battery terminal posts and cables before attempting to start, regardless of whether you're putting in a new battery or just jumping it with another vehicle. And don't crank on the starter for more than about 20 seconds at a time to avoid starter damage. Actually it'd be a good idea to pull the plugs and turn it over several times. Pull the clutch lever in when turning over. That'll help break the plates loose cause they are likely stuck to some degree.
Good luck
The fuel system is a 50/50 on being gummed up or not. Remove the bowl from the carb and check for moisture and/or varnish. I've seen them sit for years with no problems later and others having sit for a few months that were plugged up. Completely drain the fuel from the tank thru the petcock on the reserve position and look in the tank with a flash light for contamination. If it looks good, new fuel before starting.
Clean the battery terminal posts and cables before attempting to start, regardless of whether you're putting in a new battery or just jumping it with another vehicle. And don't crank on the starter for more than about 20 seconds at a time to avoid starter damage. Actually it'd be a good idea to pull the plugs and turn it over several times. Pull the clutch lever in when turning over. That'll help break the plates loose cause they are likely stuck to some degree.
Good luck
Club Member
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 802
Likes: 3
From: Wisconsin
Put a pan under the oil breather,make sure the compliance fittings are not cracked.Remove spark plugs and spray a little WD40 in the cylinders and let it sit a day,then crank it over without the plugs in. The Pan will keep the floor clean-the WD will prevent a sticking ring from cracking.
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