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SECTION 9
CLEANING AND STORAGE
9.1 CLEANING THE VEHICLE
Wash the vehicle body with a household detergent and rinse
with water. Flush dirt out of the lower body by using a high
pressure sprayer or garden hose after removing the drain
plugs. After the bottom of the vehicle is dry, lubricate the
drive chains with ARGO chain Lube. Make sure the drain
plugs are replaced.
9.2 STORING THE VEHICLE
When the vehicle is stored for an extended period, the fol-
lowing preparation is required:
Clean the Vehicle
Remove all dirt and water from the vehicle body as directed
above.
Remove the drain plugs if the vehicle is not fully sheltered
from the elements.
CAUTION
NOTE
Any water accumulation in the vehicle will, over time,
destroy chains, sprockets and bearings. Grease all bear-
ings and flanges (refer to Section 6.4.5).
Bearing corrosion due to inadequate preparation for stor-
age is the leading cause of premature bearing failure.
Drain the Fuel System
Insert a siphon hose into the gas tank through the filler neck
and drain the gasoline. Start the engine and run it until all
fuel in the system is consumed.
OR
Add fuel stabilizer (ARGO Part No. 125-85) to the fuel tank
and fill with fresh gasoline. Run the engine for a few min-
utes to allow the treated fuel to reach the carburetor.
Prepare the Battery for Storage
Remove the battery from the vehicle. Clean it and charge it
with a battery charger. Coat the battery terminals with a
multi-purpose grease to prevent corrosion. Store the battery
in a cool dry place.
WARNING
Do not store the battery near flames, sparks or any source of
fire. Batteries can explode if exposed to flames or sparks,
causing serious personal injury.
Recharge the battery monthly.
Protect the Electrical System
Spray the wiring harnesses and all the electrical connections
with a silicone based lubricant (WD40 or equivalent) to pre-
vent corrosion.
Carefully inspect the wiring for loose connections, bare wires
or corrosion. Repair as necessary.
Raise the Vehicle
Place blocks under the front and rear of the vehicle to raise
the tires off the ground. The blocks must be placed under the
frame members to prevent body damage (Figure 9-1).
Figure 9-1 Correct placement of blocks
Preparing the Engine for Storage
Read the engine operator’s manual and carry out all recom-
mended storage procedures.
