As a service center for motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, and PWCs, we regularly bring vehicles into the shop with two main problems: bad fuel and dead batteries. Both occur when vehicles are not used for long periods of time. The good news is that both problems are completely preventable.
So, let’s start with the batteries. The biggest problem is that they are small and this allows them to lose charge. The cells start to die and this then results in a bad battery. To prevent this, all you need to do is keep your battery charged. The easiest way to do this is to connect an auxiliary battery. These cost around $45 and up. Is that how it works. Basically, the tender is a low-power battery charger that automatically turns itself on and off when needed. The tender is inexpensive and also very easy to install.
The fuel problem is also quite easy to solve. When you store your vehicle in the off-season, it’s best to do so with a full tank of fuel. This helps keep both moisture and air out, reducing the rate at which fuel goes bad. Also, add the recommended amount of fuel stabilizer to your gas tank making sure to follow the directions on the bottle. Now your fuel tank is safe.
Let’s move on to the fuel lines and carb, because fuel goes bad in the carb much faster than fuel in the tank due to its smaller volume. So you’ll need to get some of the gas mixture from your fuel tank into your carb. Start by running your vehicle for about ten minutes. Or, if you prefer, drain the float bowl long enough to be sure there is mixed fuel in the bowl.
Thinking of storing your vehicle for several years? If so, we recommend draining all the fuel from your tank and carbs because the fuel stabilizer won’t last as long.