Storage Question
Thread Starter
|
Stage IV
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Vegas
Storage Question
So I have to store my 05 Heritage for a yr...should I leave the battery tender on it all year? And should the gas be almost empty or full? It will be in the garage in Minnesota and I will be back for mid tour leave in 6mo...
Road Captain
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 576
Likes: 1
From: Southern Maine
I would pull the battery and put it in the tender. Put fuel stabilizer in and top off the tank. Might want to block up the frame to take the weight off the suspension, but not necessary. when you are back in 6 months I'd run the bike at least enopugh to use up the tank of fuel and then refill with stabilized fuel when you go back on duty, pull battery again. And stay safe.
Road Master
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 970
Likes: 19
From: Philippines
I did a lot of research on long term storage before working in the Sand Box. Normally, for winter storage, it is recommended to completely fill the gas tank and add a fuel stabilizer. The purpose of filling the tank prior to storage is to prevent moisture from accumulating within the tank and causing rust. Gas however has a relatively short shelf life even with a stabilizer added. It will turn into a gel varnish looking gunk after an extended period. It might be advisable to completely drain your fuel system.
A battery tender may maintain your battery for the year but you'll have an electrical device plugged in unattended. If your battery already has a few years on it you might just consider biting the bullet on this one and purchase a fresh new battery when you return.
Here are steps I took to store my bike for a year. I assume your bike is EFI.
1. Wash and Wax the bike completely.
2. Perform an oil change prior to storage. Your old oil contains hydrocarbons.
3. Pull the fuel pump fuse and crank the bike over to remove fuel from the injectors.
4. Drain the fuel tank.
5. Remove the spark plugs and squirt a little clean oil into the cylinders. Crank the bike over a couple times to lubricate the cylinders. Replace the spark plugs.
6. Remove leather products and store in a dry place.
7. Remove battery.
8. Cover the bike with a Breathable cover.
A battery tender may maintain your battery for the year but you'll have an electrical device plugged in unattended. If your battery already has a few years on it you might just consider biting the bullet on this one and purchase a fresh new battery when you return.
Here are steps I took to store my bike for a year. I assume your bike is EFI.
1. Wash and Wax the bike completely.
2. Perform an oil change prior to storage. Your old oil contains hydrocarbons.
3. Pull the fuel pump fuse and crank the bike over to remove fuel from the injectors.
4. Drain the fuel tank.
5. Remove the spark plugs and squirt a little clean oil into the cylinders. Crank the bike over a couple times to lubricate the cylinders. Replace the spark plugs.
6. Remove leather products and store in a dry place.
7. Remove battery.
8. Cover the bike with a Breathable cover.
Last edited by olongapo1; Mar 28, 2012 at 05:33 PM.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 13,456
Likes: 10,452
From: Sunshine State
I would pull the battery and put it in the tender. Put fuel stabilizer in and top off the tank. Might want to block up the frame to take the weight off the suspension, but not necessary. when you are back in 6 months I'd run the bike at least enopugh to use up the tank of fuel and then refill with stabilized fuel when you go back on duty, pull battery again. And stay safe.
lol...dont heat gun that heatshrink if ya go tha route
oops..forgot to add I like sea foam for a stabilizer or techron plus.
Last edited by Tampa Fatboy; Mar 28, 2012 at 05:51 PM.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
bobbyd3
General Harley Davidson Chat
35
Nov 4, 2007 07:16 PM
