Placing Motorcycle in Storage
NOTICE
Proper storage is important for the trouble-free operation of your motorcycle. See your Owner's Manual for storage recommendations or see a Harley-Davidson dealer. Improper storage procedures can lead to equipment damage. (00046a)
If the motorcycle will not be operated for several months, such as during the winter season, there are several tasks which should be performed. These steps will protect parts against corrosion, preserve the battery and prevent the build-up of gum and varnish in the fuel system.
WARNINGDo not store motorcycle with gasoline in tank within the home or garage where open flames, pilot lights, sparks or electric motors are present. Gasoline is extremely flammable and highly explosive, which could result in death or serious injury. (00003a)
NOTE
Make a list of everything you do and fasten it to a handgrip. When you take the motorcycle out of storage, this list will be your reference/checklist to get your motorcycle in operating condition.
| 1. | Fill fuel tank and add a gasoline stabilizer. Use one of the commercially available gasoline stabilizers and follow the manufacturer's instructions. | |
| 2. | Warm motorcycle to operating temperature. Change oil and turn engine over to circulate the new oil. | |
| 3. | Check and adjust belt if necessary. | |
| 4. | Check tire inflation. Adjust to proper inflation pressure. | |
| 5. | To protect the vehicle's body panels, engine, chassis and wheels from corrosion, follow the cosmetic care procedures described in the Accessory Maintenance section of this owner's manual prior to storage. | |
| 6. | Prepare battery for winter storage. See Maintenance and Lubrication → Battery: General. | |
| WARNING Explosive hydrogen gas, which escapes during charging, could cause death or serious injury. Charge battery in a well-ventilated area. Keep open flames, electrical sparks and smoking materials away from battery at all times. KEEP BATTERIES AWAY FROM CHILDREN. (00065a) | ||
| 7. | If the motorcycle is to be stored with security system armed, it will be necessary to connect a Battery Tender to maintain battery charge. If security system will not be armed and a Battery Tender is not available, either: a. Disconnect negative battery cable. b. Remove main fuse (if applicable). | |
| 8. | If motorcycle is to be covered, use a material such as light canvas that will breathe. Plastic materials that do not breathe promote the formation of condensation. |
Removing Motorcycle From Storage
WARNINGThe clutch failing to disengage can cause loss of control, which could result in death or serious injury. Prior to starting after extended periods of storage, place transmission in gear and push vehicle back and forth several times to assure proper clutch disengagement. (00075a)
| 1. | See Maintenance and Lubrication → Battery: General for proper battery care. Charge and install the battery. | |
| 2. | Remove and inspect the spark plugs. Replace if necessary. | |
| 3. | Clean the air cleaner element. | |
| 4. | Start the engine and run until it reaches normal operating temperature. Turn off engine. | |
| 5. | Check amount of oil in the oil tank. | |
| 6. | Check the transmission lubricant level. | |
| 7. | Check controls to be sure they are operating properly. Operate the front and rear brakes, throttle, clutch and shifter. | |
| 8. | Check steering for smoothness by turning the handlebars through the full operating range. | |
| WARNING Be sure tires are properly inflated, balanced, undamaged, and have adequate tread. Inspect your tires regularly and see a Harley-Davidson dealer for replacements. Riding with excessively worn, unbalanced, improperly inflated, overloaded or damaged tires can lead to tire failure and adversely affect stability and handling, which could result in death or serious injury. (00014b) | ||
| 9. | Check tire pressure. Incorrect pressure will result in poor riding characteristics and can affect handling and stability. | |
| 10. | Check all electrical equipment and switches including the stop lamp, turn signals and horn for proper operation. | |
| 11. | Check for any fuel, oil or brake fluid leaks. |
NOTICE
Turn engine over a few times to be sure there is no oil in the crankcase and that all oil has been pumped back into the oil tank. Stop engine and re-check oil level. Failure to do so can result in engine damage. (00071a)