Hello,
I recently inherited a ´82 Kawasaki 440 LTD that has been sitting under a blanket, in a garage for 13 years. When it was put in the garage, 13 years ago, no storage preparations were done to it (i.e. fuel still in tank, etc.)

I would put myself at somewhere between beginner and average in terms of my mechanical skill / knowledge. I know enough to not charge up the battery and hit the start button after such a long storage period. My instincts tell me that, at the very least, I should:

1. Drain & flush the fuel tank / lines
2. Change the oil
3. Replace the spark plugs (and after the old plugs come out, before the new ones go in)
4. Spray some lubricant into the spark plug holes
5. Replace fuel, air & oil filters

What else is recommended to prep the engine before I attempt to fire it up after an extended time in storage?

Thanks for the help!
Dan

 

Sounds like a good plan. You may want to let the lubricant sit in the cylinders for a day or so, then turn the engine over by hand and not with the starter.

You may find that the rubber carb boots are cracked and need replaced.

Get some brake fluid to flush out both ends of the brake system.

Get a new battery and tires. Remove the chain and soak over night in kerosene or diesel. Or inspect and replace the belt drive. (not sure what the LTD used)

Welcome to KF