Proper storage of your Honda can avoid numerous problems, including a discharged battery, rusted fuel tank, clogged fuel lines or carburetors. faded paint, rust, mildew, and in certain conditions, even severe engine damage.
By following these storage guidelines in conjunction with the Owner’s Manual and Service Manual, your Honda will be ready to ride in the spring.
This guide can also be used to prepare Honda ATVs, SxSs. and scooters for winter storage. Use the information contained in this guide as applicable. If you have doubts about your ability to perform any of the procedures in this storage guide contact your local Honda dealer. To ensure proper storage, the following sections should he completed in the order in which they are presented.
For a fee, many dealerships will store your Honda for the winter and prepare it for the next riding season. Ask your local Honda dealer if they provide this service. If you decide to store the vehicle yourself, follow these.
Work in a well-ventilated area. Keep cigarettes, flames or sparks away from the work area or where gasoline is stored.
WARNING!
Change the engine oil and filter. Ride the vehicle until it reaches normal operating temperature and then change the engine oil and filter according to the Owner’s Manual or Service Manual. Riding the vehicle also does the important task of distributing the treated fuel through the fuel system. Even if the oil is not due for a change, combustion by-products produce acids in the oil that can corrode engine parts. Changing the oil will help prevent corrosion from occurring during storage.
Oil filters may look the same, but vary from model to model. Make sure you are using the correct Honda Genuine filter by part number for your specific model, and installing it according to the Owner’s Manual instructions. Failure to do so can cause severe engine damage.
Dispose of the used oil and filter in an environmentally safe manner. If you cannot locate an oil recycling facility, contact your local Honda dealer.
Cylinder walls can rust if the engine is not run for several weeks. potentially causing piston and ring wear. To prevent rust during storage, first clean the area around the outside of the spark plugs to ensure debris does not enter the cylinders.
Unplug the spark plug cap{s) from the spark plug. Remove the spark plug(s) from the cylinder. Pour a tablespoon (15-20 cc) of clean engine oil in each cylinder.
Cover the spark plug holes with a piece of cloth, turn the engine stop switch to the RUN position. then crank the engine through several revolutions to coat the cylinder walls with oil. Reinstall the spark plug(s) and torque to the proper setting.
Remove the battery for storage and be sure to read all charging information in the Owner’s Manual, on the battery itself, and the instructions that came with the battery charger you’ll be using. If your vehicle has a maintenance-free type battery, you do not have to check the electrolyte level or add distilled water. Do not remove the battery cap seals; there is no need to remove the caps when charging.
If the battery is a conventional type (not maintenance-free), check the electrolyte level. Add distilled water to any cells that are low. Do not use tap water; it will shorten the battery’s life considerably. Charge the battery using a motorcycle battery charger. American Honda recommends the use of a quality maintenance charger, such as the Optimate 3+ Automatic 5-Stage battery charger. Intelligent maintenance chargers can safely maintain your battery without risk of overcharging.
Find a well-ventilated location to store the battery and charger, away from sunlight or direct heat source (furnace, water heater, etc.). Since you will need to check the battery’s charge at least every two weeks, store it in an accessible location that is inside and protected from freezing. With the battery out of the box, it’s a good time to clean the battery compartment. Neutralize any acid spills with baking soda, then rinse with clean water. Dry the compartment thoroughly.
WARNING!
WARNING!
If the vehicle is moderately dirty or you have been riding it on salted roads, clean it thoroughly with Hondabrite™ spray or equivalent. Rinse with water and dry the vehicle completely. Apply Pro Honda Spray Cleaner and Polish, which leaves a protective coating that repels water and protects against ultraviolet rays on both metal and plastic parts. Wax all painted surfaces to prevent paint axidation and apply rust-inhibiting oil to all chrome pieces.
Note: Do not use products containing wax on matte painted surfaces.
Make sure the drive chain is dry, and then coat it with Pro Honda Chain Lube. Check that the tire air pressure is correct and place the vehicle in its storage location.
Place the vehicle on its centerstand (if equipped), if practical place a block under the engine so that the front wheel is off the ground. Stable motorcycle stands will also work if the vehicle does not have a centerstand. If you don’t have, either of these, make sure to check for the correct tire air pressure at least once a month during storage to prevent flat spots.
If you are concerned about the security of your vehicle during storage, consider securing the frame to a permanent fixture with a heavy-duty lock or chain, making sure not to damage the frame or paint. Apply the breathable cover and you’re set for the winter. Just make sure to keep an eye on the battery’s charge!
At the beginning of the riding season, remove the cover and any locks you may have used to secure the vehicle. Check tires for cracks or splits on the sidewalls. Normal “weather checking” shouldn’t be a concern. However, if you find large cracks or splits, tire replacement is recommended. See your local Honda dealer.
If you haven’t found any deterioration, check the air pressure to be sure it’s as recommended in the Owner’s Manual. Check the vehicle for any rust that may have accumulated during storage. If found, remove it with Pro Honda Spray Cleaner and Polish or equivalent.
Next, lube the drive chain. If you drained the radiator, fill it and remove the tag or label noting it was drained.
Even though you changed the engine oil and oil filter before storage, change the oil again if the vehicle has been stored for more than four months; small amounts of oil left in the engine from previous oil changes can create corrosive by-products during storage. It is not necessary to change the oil filter again.
Clean the battery terminals with a wire brush and coat them with dielectric grease. Reinstall the battery.
Clean both sides of the brake discs with Pro Honda Brake Cleaner or equivalent. Complete the pre-ride inspection procedures found in the Owner’s Manual, then test ride the vehicle at low speeds. A brief period of exhaust smoking is normal, as the engine burns off the oil you used to coat the cylinder walls.
DEALERSHIP HOURS
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
Gone Riding
10:00AM – 6:00PM
10:00AM – 6:00PM
10:00AM – 6:00PM
10:00AM – 6:00PM
10:00AM – 5:00PM
Gone to Church
