Mechanical problems associated with extended storage

Hello everyone!

This is my 1st post but I've been reading all I can here for weeks. I'm impressed with the level of intelligence & courtesy. I look forward to contributing to this great site. I'm currently in mad heat now to buy a 6th gen! Anyways....

Would you buy an 02 ABS with only 200KM that has been stored indoors?

Pls note:

* The mileage is confirmed by an authorized Honda dealer. They originally sold it to the guy. They are giving it a complete inspection.
* I will speak directly to the original owner to determine his storage procedures. However, whatever he says I will still take it with a grain of salt.

* I'm familiar with winterizing procedures so I'm interested in answers relating extended storage conditions.

1) Can we assume that the battery, tires & all fluids should be replaced?
2) Should anything else be replaced?
3) What do you think the effect will be on the fuel system even if stabilizer was used?
4) Is it true that for extended periods it is best NOT to start the engine because doing so will only introduce condensation & combustion byproducts? So what if he only took it out for two 20 minute rides a year? would this translate into engine/tranny/exhaust issues?
5) If the complete cooling system wasn't drained, does that mean its toast?
6) If you were me, what would you do?

My thx in advance!

 

About 3 years ago i bought a 69 Volvo 1800 thjat had been setting in a garage for about 20years without ever being started or moved. All i did was put a new battery in and sprayed some lub in eacy cyl. through the spark plug. Draned all the fuilds oil/gas/antifreeze. Then i turned the crank by hand a couple times to make sure it still moved. Following this i took the valve cover off and lubed it up with a little oil since it was dry. Lastly i turned the key and low and behold it fired right up. After i got it running it was just a matter of replacing everything that was rubber, tires/brakelines/bushings/hoses
Please keep in mind i bought the car in AZ where the humidity lever is alot lower then PA would be so this may have some influence on the exaust system and cooling system


As long as the bikes engine got hot every year to get rid of the water i would not worry about the bike not being used alot. Change the fluids and replace the battery if needed. Besides that i don't think you should have any problems as long as it runs. As for the fuel, If it runs asis i would try to get rid of as much of the old fuel as possible and replace with some new stuff. Most likely there is some water in the fuel at this point so some dry gas is a good idea. The bike i bought last week (00 VFR) had been setting for about 2 years without being ridden for more then a hour or two and it runs perfect. I changed the oil/water and had to lube the chain since it was bone dry but besides that it runs perfect.

Overall i don't think i would be too woried as long as you make sure the bike was always inside and that it was run on occasion. Oil/antifrreeze/tires/fuel are a given but besides that i say go for it if the price is right.....

 

If the same gas has been sitting in the tank for four years, which at 200km it probably has, I would recommend draining the tank. I would probably take it to a Honda Dealer and get them to do a full service before you try and run it. If the tires have been sitting on concrete then you will need to replace them. Over time concrete sucks some of the compounds out of the tire and will create a weak patch on the tire. Not a problem with normal use only if it sits for a long time.