maintenance

maintenance

by Josh
(Fort Hood, Texas)

I just got a 1996 suzuki savage ls650 from a friend. He hasn't ridden it for almost 2 years. I know a need a new battery for it, I need to know what else to be aware of after I change the battery. Is there anything else I should be cautious of before starting it?

Comments for
maintenance

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Apr 03, 2009

Out of Hibernation
by: Anonymous

Most people will recommend taking carburetor off for cleaning varnish off inside. First I would try a product called Seafoam. It's about $8-10 at NAPA or Autozone. Do NOT succumb to the "if a little is good, a lot must be better" syndrome. I use one ounce per gallon in clean gas. Take an hour ride in friendly territory in case some crud comes loose in the carb and stops up the jets. I have only seen one negative comment on the internet about Seafoam. It loosened the rust up in an old tank and stopped up a carb. It's a pain, but I would install a new spark plug. (requires removing gas tank) An air filter is about $15 and is a ten minute change. Change the oil (filter and filter cover "o" ring less than $10.) Go to a cycle shop and pay $5-6 a litre for correct oil. 10W40? wrong oil makes clutch slip. Get a Clymer Manual. Love my 2001 Savage.

Jul 05, 2008

Out of Hibernation
by: Anonymous

Gas left in the tank for 2 years will separate into its components, and the heavier stuff will get sucked up and clog your petcock , fuel lines, fuel filter, carb bowl and jets. Empty the old gas out and put new gas in before you ever try to start it.

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