'de-winterizing'...what need done before riding in spring?

kmrcstintn · Post by **kmrcstintn** » Mon Jan 27, 2014 10:17 pm

what do I need to do when I 'de-winterize' my scooter in the spring (based upon what I type below)...thanks

in years past I was able to store my scooter inside an enclosed patio, but due to space restrictions my '13 Buddy 125 is in the backyard; it is sitting on a rubber truckbed mat, covered, battery tender attached; fuel was treated with Starbrite Startron ethanol stabilizer prior to storage in late October, the spark plug was replaced (during a repair when the resistor in the spark plug boot was found broken); the oil & filter were replaced (Amsoil 10w-40 scooter oil & HiFlo Filtro HF 138) shortly before storage; tires were slightly overpressurized before storing;

in early December (on a warmer day) I started it, let it idle/run for 10 minutes, and checked tire pressures...haven't got to touch it since due to crappy weather; don't know if I'll get to idle/run/ride it again before March or April...

TVB · Post by **TVB** » Mon Jan 27, 2014 10:32 pm

1) Wait for the pavement to clear of ice/snow/slush. That's the hardest part.
2) Disconnect the tender.
3) Check the tire pressure.
4) Confirm that both brakes are working.
5) Gear up and get on.
6) Start it and let it idle.
7) Reposition the mirrors.
8 ) Confirm that the blinkers, headlight, and brakelight work.
9) Look both ways.
10) Engage.

kmrcstintn · Post by **kmrcstintn** » Mon Jan 27, 2014 10:37 pm

sounds good...just wasn't sure with the ultracold temps & the scoot being outside; thanks!

the motorcycle on the other hand needs a trip to my trusted shop for a 'pre-spring' tune up (bought it in late September and didn't have the money to get it done in the fall)...since the tank has to come off to change the coolant, I'm having some other stuff done at the same time...carbs/jets cleaned, carbs synced, vacuum lines checked, carb boots checked, valve lifters adjusted, fuel filter replaced (if applicable...scematics show a 'filter screen' in the fuel tank);

TVB · Post by **TVB** » Tue Jan 28, 2014 3:43 am

I do usually bring the scooter into the shop for a beginning-of-season check-up, sometime shortly after the roads clear. But that's more about it being a good time for regular maintenance, than about getting the scooter back on the road again.