Noob to Winterize first bike and have questions

Ok I have had my 1985 XJ700 Maxim since September and getting ready to winterize for the Northern Ohio winter.
I know from reading the forums that best way winterize is top off gas tank with seafoam or something.
I will be draining my tank to remove and have painted over the winter. I was also planning on performing a number of other cosmetic upgrades and was thinking about leaving the tank and fenders off till closer to spring.
If i leave the tank off what should I do with the carbs so not to have problems in the spring.
Any suggestions on the carbs would be great.
Thanks
Brian

 

I'd drain the carbs if I was pulling the tank. This means open the drain screws, not run it until it quits.

I'd put some fogging oil or WD40 in that tank and slosh it around good to protect it from corrosion while it's sitting empty.

 

MiCarl thanks but is it ok to leave the carbs dry all winter. The bike is stored in a heated garage but I am concerned about problems leaving them dry.
Thanks
Brian

 

Shouldn't be a problem

 

What I do to winterize my bikes down here in Texas is to fill them with fuel, turn the key and ride! LOL :lol:

I am waiting for the slings and arrows right now...

Sorry, guys, had to do it!

Don't forget to change the oil right before you store it away. Then, when you bring her out of hibernation, change it out again. Over the winter, moisture will condense on the insides and run down into the oil. You don't want that running through your engine in the Spring!

Coat everything with wax to keep surface rust from growing.

Plug your exhaust tips to keep critters from makng nests in the exhaust.

Don't forget your battery tender. They are invaluable!

Check the tire pressure once a month and keep it filled, so you don't get cracking in the Spring.

Good luck! I'll be thinking about you on about January and I am in the Hill Country riding "The 3 Sisters," Texas Ranch Roads 335, 336 and 337!

 

"Plug your exhaust tips to keep critters from makng nests in the exhaust."
why? flying mouse bones are cool

 

LOL Polock, you are a sicko! I like it!

 

Skippy,
Do you use a cheaper oil to store it over winter if you are going to dump it out in the spring. I use a fairly expensive oil and would not want to waste it.

 

How many people changed their oil, then NEVER ran the engine to circulate it?? You just left your acidic , spent oil in the bearings and rings as if you didn't bother to change it!!

Next spring, I'd like to hear how much water people are draining out of their engines. . . just curious.

 

I usually have one last ride or at least put seaform in and run it into the system. I guess I was wondering about the quality of the oil left in for storage and whether this is worth the extra $?