We had a strange year and didn't use our quads much at all. None of the bikes even went through a full tank of oil.

My question is this: Can I just top the oil off or should I drain the oil and start from scratch ? The 1/2 tank or so that's in them is from last Fall when I put them away for the Winter.

I use Bel Ray synthetic oil.


TIA,

Steve B. & Family

 

I dont see how the oil in the tank has degraded any.....no way I can think of. I would just top it off.

Ive got cases and cases of oil laying around that I have bought as long as 3 or 4 years ago.....never give it any thought.

 

I wouldnt sweat it at all...The oil would be good for a few years..

 

That's what I figured but didn't want to overlook anything.

I'm struugling with a starting problem with the Polaris 50 now, dangit.

I have spark but it won't fire. Fresh gas, plug, battery, seems to be fuel but no start.

I started another thread in General ATV Discussion, hopefully I'll get a few hits there.

I'm trying to figure out how to check compression and what it should be.

Thank's for the replies guy's !

Steve B. & Family

 

Id guess the carb is plugged up...take it apart and clean it with carb cleaner/compressed air...

 

The oil will be fine. I have used Polaris synthetic injector oil in my 400 since new in 1999& have never emptied the oil tank. I top it off every few months, but it doesn't use much either. It's also still on the original piston (Although it is getting due for a freshening).

You check the compression by removing the spark plug and inserting the end of a compression guage. Then you turn the engine over several revolutions (at least 4 or 5 rotations/kicks).
As far as the compression readings, on a 2 stroke, Around 100 psi is the minimum that will even run properly (and should be rebuilt as soon as possible). 150 psi is typical on a fresh rebuild. 125-140 psi is well broken in and in operating condition. Measure the engine when cold.

As in the above suggestions, chances are the carb needs a cleaning. Also, be sure to charge up the battery as a full battery will make starting as easy as it can be.