What needs to be done to winterize?

There was frost on the pumpkin this morning, so I suppose I need to get ready to winterize my bike.
What all needs to be done to insure a safe storage?
Also, should I install some kinda shutoff valve on my gas tank?
(don't think the petcock has an off position)
All recommendations greatly appreciated.

Thanks.
Ron.

 

If you're not completely sure about the petcock, then yeah, you can either install an inline valve or disconnect the fuel line and cap it off with a blind plug, both on the petcock and the line that goes into the carbs.

Add some Sta-Bil and top off the tank. This will keep the fuel from going bad, and the tank from rusting.

Drain the fuel from the carb bowls.

If your bike is liquid-cooled, make sure the antifreeze you have in there is up to snuff. Replace it if you're not sure... You don't want it to freeze inside the engine... That's bad news.

Another thing that wouldn't hurt.. Get some fogging oil and spray a bit in all four cylinders. It will stick to cylinder walls and make your first start next season a lot safer and easier.

Get a battery tender (they're about 25-30 bucks) and keep it on the battery all winter long. It will cost you pennies on your electrical bill, and will keep you from having to buy another battery in Spring.

 

With extreme cold here in Wisconsin, I generally remove my battery and
store it on the bottom shelf of my workbench in the basement of my house.

I usually use Sea Foam in the gas, is that good enough?

Also airhead...not liquid cooled.
(gonna update sig to reflect this)

 

Seafoam should work just fine.

Whether you take the battery off or not, I'd still recommend putting a trickle charger on it. It will slowly self-discharge even with nothing connected to it.

 

Thanks.
Guess I'll have to run out and get myself a trickle charger.

 

There is a topic "Winter Storage" in the XJChat forum. It covered a whole lot of info that will protect and preserve your bike. I'm trying to figure out how to post the link so you don't have to search for it but still is good information to have.

As to the SeaFoam issue, the manufacturer says it will stabilize fuel for up to 2 years.

 

Move to Texas and you won't have to winterize and can ride all year long!

Sorry, had to say that! Sta-bil in your gas tank, after filling it to the brim will keep it from rusting and getting gunky.

Tape off or plug the exhaust outlets.

Wax all surfaces that may rust.

 

Found out how to pinpoint the article on winterizing.

http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=2 ... orage.html

Several good points in thread.

 

thanks for all the info.

 

DO NOT!!! just go and get any run of the mill trickle charger!!! Make sure it is a smart charger that will cycle on its own so that it won't slow kill your battery.

You can get them made by Deltran and Yuasa. They are usually called Battery Tenders, which is different from a trickle charger. You may also find them at places like a Harley dealer and they are marked as Harley brand, but they are made by Deltran. Just make sure you read the package and ensure it will cycle automatically.

 

If you don't want to go the Harley Dealer you can also get them at CycleGear, either in the store or on-line. They carry the Battery Tender brand. This is what I use.

Loren

 

Do you think I could pick one up at a Marine dealer/shop?

 

Most would have the Battery Tender or an equivalent. You can also go the Deltran's web web site and check for dealers in your area.

 

Thanks to my hereditary that has me be in this geographical location, I don't have to go through all that, no wonder you American blokes who get snowed on 'n froze have problematic machinery. Theres only a tiny bit of Aus' that would have to do any of this and not for as long.

 

Your best bet price wise is probably going to be eBay if you use it. I was shopping for one a few months ago, and there are a few places on-line that had good prices with no shipping, but the best price I found by far was on eBay. I paid about $40 less than any other place had one listed, for the 4-bank battery tender made by Deltran. Brand new full warranty.

 

I got this one from Autozone for 30 bucks. It works a treat. I've left it plugged for weeks without any problems.

 

Check Hap's page. He has some really great information, especially for Maxim-Xs. Here is his information on winterization.

http://www.maxim-x.com/winterization.html

 

You can get one that is nearly the same as the one stereomind got at walmart for about the same price. I didn't have one last year and I paid the price.

 

Move to Florida and ride all year EVEN in DECEMBER,JANUARY, & FEBRUARY! BUT have a garage for the hurricanes!!!! or prepare to have it stored somewhere during the storm! minor inconveinence........