Rust prevention - again - Harley Forum

sglide50 · #1 10-29-2009, 02:22 PM

As winter approaches and I prepare my SGlide for inactivity and the cold, i have decided to spray the entire bike (below the tank) with WD-40, actually mist it with the stuff, and then cover it. (it sits outside cuz i have no garage). This after much research on how best to prevent condensation from doing its evil work during the winter/snow/ice. Unfortunately, i have heard that WD-40 eats away at rubber; spark plug wires, bushings, etc. Anyone have thoughts on this and whether I should just spray the bike with a silicone spray instead? FYI, i will stabil the fuel, store the seat and bags indoors, and hook up to battery tender. I store the bike in a 'Cycle Shell' which so far has proven to be excellent.

thuz71 · #2 10-29-2009, 09:12 PM

I use a product made by S100. Its called corrosion protectant, it works great and have not had any problems on plastic or rubber items. I use it every year on my wifes 03 super glide and it looks brand new. A can is going to run you about 10 bucks, but like I said it works. Hope this helps.

sglide50 · #3 10-30-2009, 11:09 AM

Thanks, I thought about the s100 protectant as well (i have a can), but it leaves a white coat that will have to be wiped off, eventually. I figure if i spray the other stuff, i can just wash off whatever is left with s100 in the spring (yes, i'm a lazy ass). thanks for the input guys, i'm going with the wd-40.....or silicone....damn.

sglide50 · #4 10-30-2009, 02:52 PM

Okay, got the official word from the horse's mouth (a WD-40 company spokesperson)

"There are applications involving rubber and some plastics, which should be approached with caution or avoided when using WD-40. Clear polystyrene and polycarbonate will stress crack in the presence of WD-40. WD-40 will not harm PVC.
Polyethylene and natural rubber will swell upon immersion in WD-40, however a light surface spray is harmless."

So that does it, now I will spray my bike with WD-40...or maybe silicone....doh!

old no. seven · #5 11-01-2009, 10:55 PM

Just be real careful around the brakes, that could get ugly. For the last 10 years I've just cleaned the bike real good , waxed the painted surfaces, chrome polish to the chrome, buff out the Aluminum, stabil the gas and pull the battery and it goes on a smart tender charger. The garage and three season room are not heated and yes the bikes sweat in the spring but a little prevention in the storage goes a long way.

street bob · #6 11-02-2009, 07:03 PM

I don't use anything..........
As was said, wash, wax, sta-bil in the gas, battery tender hooked up, good for 5 months.