2002 Yamaha Motorsports VK 540 lll Owners Manual - Page 69

ESU00252 STORAGE Long term storage, requires some preventive procedures to guard against deterioration. 1. Cleaning Thoroughly clean the machine, inside and out, to remove the corrosive salts and acids that can accumulate. Use Yamaha Mud and Grease Release, or an equivalent, to loosen mud, grease and grime. Wash with mild soap, then rinse and dry completely. 2. Lubrication Lubricate moving parts, suspension linkage and pivot points. Use the grease or lubricant specified in the MAINTENANCE section, or Yamaha Lube-Zall general purpose lubricant. Proper lubrication fights corrosion while it reduces friction. 3. Fuel system preparation Add Yamaha Fuel Conditioner/Stabilizer, or an equivalent, to the fuel tank to help prevent fuel oxidation, gum and varnish deposits, and to inhibit corrosion in the fuel system and carburetor. In areas where oxygenated fuel ("gasohol") is used, completely drain the fuel system. Consult your Yamaha dealer. 4. Engine Proper storage of the engine is essential to prevent costly rust and corrosion damage to internal engine components. This is more important than ever in those areas where oxygenated fuel ("gasohol") is used, because the alcohol content in the fuel increases the chance for water to enter the engine. Use Yamaha Stor-Rite Fogging Oil, or an equivalent, to protect both combustion chamber and crank- shaft from corrosion. An alternate method is to remove the airbox and squirt oil into the carburetor throats while the engine is running. CAUTION: Do not attempt to store the machine by simply starting the engine occasionally during the storage period. This can cause more harm than good! Moisture and acids form during combustion which can actually increase the chance for corrosion damage during the storage period. 5. Protection Apply a coat of wax, such as Yamaha Silicone Wax, to painted surfaces. Spray Yamaha Silicone Spray, or an equivalent protectant, on the exterior of the engine, on the track, and on other metal, plastic and rubber parts. 6. Battery Remove the battery from the snowmobile and check the fluid level. Add only distilled water if necessary. (See page 8-24 the "BATTERY-Replenishing the battery fluid" section.) After checking the fluid level, charge the battery. Store it in a cool, dry place that is above 0°C (32°F), but less than 30°C (90°F). Check battery condition with a hydrometer monthly, and charge as necessary. WARNING • • Never smoke or make and break connections at the battery while charging. Sparks may ignite the battery gas. Be sure the battery terminals are tight and that the battery vent tube is properly routed and is securely attached to the battery. 10-1