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Maintenance



Washing Your Ride

Frequent cleaning of your machine will enhance its appearance, maintain better overall performance, and extend the life of many components.

   1. Before washing the machine, block off the end of the exhaust pipe to prevent water from entering. A plastic bag secured with a rubber band may be used for this purpose.
   2. If the engine is excessively greasy, apply some degreaser to it with a paintbrush. Do not apply degreaser to the chain, sprockets, or wheel axles.
   3. Rinse the dirt and degreaser off with a garden hose; only use enough pressure to do the job.*
   4. After the majority of the dirt and degreaser have been hosed off, wash all surfaces with warm water and a mild detergent. Use an old toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach places.
   5. Rinse the machine off immediately with clean water, and dry all surfaces with a soft towel or cloth.
   6. Immediately after washing, remove excess water from the chain with a paper towel and lubricate the chain to prevent rust.
   7. Clean the seat with vinyl upholstery cleaner to keep the cover pliable and glossy.
   8. Automotive wax may be applied to all painted or chromed surfaces. Avoid combination cleaner-waxes, as they may contain abrasives.
   9. After completing the above, start the engine and allow it to idle for several minutes.

*Note: Excessive hose pressure may cause water seepage and contamination of wheel bearings, front forks, brakes and transmission seals. Many expensive repair bills have resulted from improper high-pressure detergent applications such as those available in coin-operated car wash facilities.


Storing Your Ride

If your machine is to be stored for 60 days or more, some preventative measures must be taken to avoid deterioration. After cleaning the machine thoroughly, prepare it for storage as follows:

   1. Drain the fuel tank, fuel lines, and the carburetor float bowl.
   2. Remove the spark plug, pour a tablespoon of SAE 10W-30 motor oil in the spark plug hole, and reinstall the plug. With the engine stop switch pushed in, kick the engine over several times to coat the cylinder walls with oil.
   3. Remove the drive chain, clean it thoroughly with solvent, and lubricate it. Reinstall the chain or store it in a plastic bag tied to the frame.
   4. Lubricate all control cables.
   5. Block the frame up to raise the wheels off the ground.
   6. Tie a plastic bag over the exhaust pipe outlet to prevent moisture from entering.
   7. If the machine is to be stored in a humid or salt-air environment, coat all exposed metal surfaces with a film of light oil. Do not apply oil to rubber parts or the seat cover.