Motorcycle Repair: 98 Honda 1100cc Submerged by Ike, honda shadow, redone

Question
My Honda shadow was submerged by Hurricane Ike. I have washed it down real good from the salt water and I was told to take out the sparks plugs and pour oil in the jugs. Is there any chance of saving this bike or am I just dreaming. If so is there manuals or should I take it all apart. I know the elec. system has to be redone. but as far as what has to be done to the motor not sure.
do I need to take the motor completely apart. any help and info would be really appreciated. I would love to be able save this It was my uncles. Thanks Peace!!!!! Todd

Answer
I'm sorry to hear that Todd.  I know a lot of folks lost a lot in that storm.  My daughter and son-in-law live an hour or so north of Houston.  I'm glad you survived.  There were some who didn't. No you don't have to take it all apart if you catch it soon enough. If the engine turns over freely, you can probably salvage it.  If you pull the plugs, pump out any water and put oil in the cylinders as soon as possible you may be okay.  It all depends on how long the water was in the engine.  You just need to get the salt out of everything as soon as possible.  After you get it running, change the oil soon after you run the bike for a while.  Drain the oil, final drive, drain and flush the carbs, cooling system and clean the bike with fresh water as soon as possible. You can flush everything with water and get most of the salt out of stuff but it requires taking everything apart. That's why they are typically totaled but if the bike as special value to you, it might be worth the effort. The exhaust will probably rust out sooner then expected and there's probably some rust inside the frame now that will eventually be a problem since there's no way to get it out.

Good luck
Rich