Motorcycle Repair: fuel tank, trickle charger, water in the fuel

Question
Hey Chris,

I own a 1982 Yamaha Maxim 400. I've owned the bike 18 years now and am well invested into her.

The question I have is this, I was advised to drain my tank due to a suspect water in the fuel scenario. She's having a hard time starting in cold and wet weather, and even still while it is dry. I am a daily rider like yourself and have had to pop the clutch in order make it to work on time. Luckily I live on a hill. Once the tank is drained, what is the next step? Do I spray the tank or use an additive, I'd like your advice.

Also, I may be off road for the winter, any tips on prepping for storage?

Cheers,

Steven

Answer
Hi Steven.
 If you have drained and found no water, then the problem is elswhere.  Possibly the carbs, valves or ignition and timing.

 Do you know what fuel in water looks like?  Many do not.  It looks like a bubble at the bottom of the container into which you have drained some of the fuel.  The container must be clear glass and clean and dry.

In order to seal out any contaminants, reseal the tank.

 As far as prepping the bike for storage;

1)  Drain all fuel from the system then run the bike until the carbs are dry.

2)  Pour a tablespoon of Marvel Mystery Oil into each of the cylinders.

3)  Remove the battery and set it up on a trickle charger.  check it every week and recharge when it drops below 10 VDC.  Also check with Hygrometer every 2 weeks to insure that all of the cells remain good.

 On startup after storage, refill the tank, replace the battery, pour some fuel treatment with carb cleaner in it into the fuel and run the bike.  It may take a little bit to blow out the oil from the cylinders, but they will not be siezed from sitting.

Good luck.
FALCON