Getting ready to restore a sled that hasn't been started for about 3 years. It did run fine the last time it was used. Should I do anything special before I try to start this thing?

My last sled I bought had been stored for a few years, the previous owner had fogged the engine and took all precautions. Just pull off the carbs, give them a good cleaning, replace the fuel lines and you should be good to go.

and take the plugs out to look in the cylinders for any crap that might not look right.

Have a peek in the fuel tank to see the condition of the fuel pickup lines. Had an older sled once that had been sitting and the things literally melted. Probably best to drain the tank anyways, although you've probably done that :D

wouldn't hurt to squirt a little oil down plug hole and crank motor over a few times also

Originally posted by tunedbyear@Mar 17 2004, 08:28 PM
wouldn't hurt to squirt a little oil down plug hole and crank motor over a few times also
I would add some marvels mystery oil and let set for a few days before cranking it over.

I would replace all the fuel lines, check and clean the carbs, make sure you have good fresh fuel in it, and when the carbs are off take a look at the piston to make sure it looks ok. (we looked at a sled once for a guy and were just gettin it ready for him to ride that winter and the piston was in terrible shape, so he got a new one and was good to go) If it ran good last time it was used you shouldnt have any problems...

I would drain all the fuel, clean the carbs, replace all fuel lines and filters, and drop a little oil down the cylanders before trying to turn it over,,,,,,, bad fuel does bad things to motors,,,,

Check the air box and exhaust and make sure that critters haven't made their home there.

My mechanic has told me that after a motor has been sitting for a while, to put a couple ounces of oil into the gas tank-the little extra shouldn't foul you out and it gives a little extra lube to the moving parts and helps if your oil pump is clogged up.

I did it this year to my Panther that was off the trail for the last 3 years. Ran fine, though it did try to load up if you were going long distance at slow speed. Cleared out if you hammered it a bit now and then.

Make sure your oil pump actions are functioning well also.

Good luck!

Jim, I'd be concerned with not only the oil having run off the cylinders as already mentioned, but also the bearings. When it starts, I'd suggest not giving it any more throttle than it takes to keep it running for a while......

Thanks guys!!! What I was looking for was what to pour down the cylinders...thanks. I planned on removing ALL the old fuel and oil, and make sure no critters are living in or did damage to the exhaust/carb areas before I try anything. I'll prob start on this after I face the reality that I'm done riding for the year. :cussing: