Hey everyone,

I recently purchased both a UTV and an ATV and I'm heading into the off-season. I want to make sure I store them properly to avoid any mechanical issues or damage. Following a reliable utv and atv storage guide has helped me understand the basics, but I still have questions about battery maintenance, fuel stabilizers, and tire pressure.

Should I drain the fuel completely or add a stabilizer? How important is it to change the oil before storage? Any tips on preventing rodent damage or rust?

Would love to hear what experienced riders recommend for long term storage!

 

thanks in advance for any help

 

OLD SCHOOL methods no longer really work well because you are in the US and the other factures like the quality of manufactured batteries. You are in the US so drain the gas for best storage. Gas stabilizers are not really formulated for the EPG current gasoline formulas unless the supplier or formulators of the gas stabilizer specifically states for oxygenated or seasonal blended fuels or if in CA specifically for CA gasoline.
Batteries should be removed or completely disconnect after they have been fully charged. Trickle and battery charges that monitor batter charge condition are great for a car or vehicle in a home garage but no really for vehicles smaller or RVs. Set up a schedule to check them every 2 months and be sure to charge them and test them when you reconnect them for use in your vehicles.

Personally on motorcycles and small CC engines I remove the spark plug and pour seafoam directly into the combustion chambers reinstall the spark plug and manually rotate the engine a few times. If you can help not to use the start motor because it will spin the motor to fast but if that is your only method, make sure the ignition kill switch is activated and only "blip" the start switch a couple of times.

If the carburates on small RTVs, scooters, motorcycles etc. are accessible it is always strongly recommended draining the carburetor bowls. Again, in the USA gas stabilizer no longer really work with the current gasoline formulas .

As for tires increase the PSI for storage by 10psi and you "must" recheck them at least once a month to make sure they are maintaining the psi. It would be to your benefit to make sure they are cleaned before storage. Temperature of storage is a factor in consideration with any long- or short-term storage of any vehicle that can affect battery fuel and tire psi.

These are on the very basic and there are more consideration as well.

Keep in mind that owners and DIY all have their DIY and owner idea's how to store their vehicles , this information is what I often give both as an owner having many store vehicles and as a professional in the service industry.

 

Just saying I looked at your profile.... how come you dont already know what I posted???

[QUOTE=jim
Hi all,
I run a small Mazda repair/restoration shop................. it’s been confusing.
I’m especially struggling .......................................
Do any MazdaForum members who run shops ........................[/QUOTE]