So.... I just bought a second project...

So.... I was out riding, and saw an 85 xj 700 for sale for $100. I needed a couple of parts, it was running with good compression etc, so i picked it up. Now it's pretty rough, and I don't have the time or money to work on it now... what's the best way to store it for a couple years?

 

My good friend who stores lots of ATVs (rides on an irregular basis, but has ridden many MANY vehicles over the years) and never touches his carbs (so his carbs stay pretty clean) tells me to close off the gas (empty the tank or disconnect it from the carbs) and then run the bike on the bowls until the bowls empty out. (Can be like 5 minutes for some of his vehicles, he says). Undo drain screws to let the rest out, I guess, after that. Then fill up the tank with gas, put fuel stabilizer in it (seafoam or stabil, they say), go put the battery somewhere else, and stick it somewhere that moisture won't get to it. Some oil on choice parts wouldn't hurt preventing rust on places you worry it might develop.

 

Also, pull plugs, spray foaming oil, turn over by hand, then loosely install plugs. Fill oil tank full to keep crank lubed. Spray entire vehicle down w/ WD-40. Stuff exhaust w/ bronze wool and put plastic bags over exhaust outlets and tape or ziptie them on.

Running carbs dry or keeping them full w/conditioned fuel depends on the jury.

 

Also, pull plugs, spray foaming oil, turn over by hand, then loosely install plugs. Fill oil tank full to keep crank lubed. Spray entire vehicle down w/ WD-40. Stuff exhaust w/ bronze wool and put plastic bags over exhaust outlets and tape or ziptie them on.

Running carbs dry or keeping them full w/conditioned fuel depends on the jury.

 

Carbs don't "dry" out because you drain them. There's just enough fuel left in there so that by the time it dries out it becomes varnish.

Varnish on the other hand might be preferable to corrosion, so you treat the gas to be sure there's no water trapped under it.

 

Much appreciated guys. It's got no title. Havent decided if I'm going use it as a parts bike, a new build, or part it out.... it's gonna need a TON of work..... but it's got a good engine... not sure what the future holds for this one.