Content Source: 2020 GEM em1400 LSV Owner’s Manual (9931124-EN R01) > Maintenance Chapter

IMPORTANT

The Owner's Manual for this vehicle contains warnings, instructions and other information you must read and fully understand before safely riding or performing maintenance on this vehicle.Always follow the warnings and instructions in Owner's Manual.

Click the CONTENTS link above for the Table Of Contents, or download a full PDF of the Owner Manual in the Owner Support area of Polaris.com

Cleaning and Storage

Washing the Vehicle

Keeping your GEM vehicle clean will not only improve its appearance but it can also extend the life of various components.
NOTICE
High water pressure may damage components. GEM recommends washing the vehicle by hand or with a garden hose, using mild soap.
NOTICE
Certain products, including insect repellents and chemicals, will damage plastic surfaces. Do not allow these types of products to contact the vehicle.
The best and safest way to clean your GEM vehicle is with a garden hose and a pail of mild soap and water.
  1. Use a professional-type washing cloth, cleaning the upper body first and the lower parts last.
  2. Rinse with clean water frequently.
  3. Dry surfaces with a chamois to prevent water spots.
If a high pressure water system is used for cleaning (not recommended), exercise extreme caution. The water may damage components and could remove paint and labels. Avoid directing the water stream at the following items:
  • Wheel bearings
  • Transaxle seals
  • Brakes
  • Cab and body panels
  • Labels and decals
  • Switches and controls
  • Electrical components and wiring
If an informational or graphic label becomes illegible or comes off, contact your GEM dealer to purchase a replacement. Replacement safety labels are provided at no charge.
Grease all zerk fittings immediately after washing.

Washing Tips

  • Avoid the use of harsh cleaners, which can scratch the finish.
  • Do not use a power washer to clean the vehicle.
  • Do not use medium to heavy duty compounds on the finish.
  • Always use clean cloths and pads for cleaning and polishing. Old or reused cloths and pads may contain dirt particles that will scratch the finish.
  • Avoid directing water toward electrical components, including batteries, wiring and switches.

Polishing the Vehicle

GEM recommends the use of common household aerosol furniture polish for polishing the finish on your GEM vehicle. Follow the instructions on the container.

Polishing Tips

  • Avoid the use of automotive products, some of which can scratch the finish of your vehicle.
  • Always use clean cloths and pads for cleaning and polishing. Old or reused cloths and pads may contain dirt particles that will scratch the finish.

Cleaning the Windshield

We recommend using GEM Windshield Cleaner and Protectant to remove normal dust and dirt. A liquid household glass cleaner can also be used. Do not use abrasive cleaners on the windshield, as they will cause scratches. To remove oil, grease or road tar use isopropyl alcohol, then wash the windshield with water. Dry gently with a soft cloth or chamois.

Storing the Vehicle

Any time the vehicle will be parked for more than a few hours, follow the recommended storage procedures:
  1. Make any necessary repairs and clean the vehicle. See Cleaning and Storage.
  2. Inspect all cables and lubricate all areas of the vehicle as recommended in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on Periodic Maintenance Chart.
  3. Perform battery maintenance. Clean the batteries. See Battery Inspections/Maintenance and Battery Cleaning.
  4. For vehicles equipped with flooded batteries, inspect the fluid levels. Add or change fluids as recommended in the Periodic Maintenance Chart beginning on Periodic Maintenance Chart.
  5. Store the vehicle out of the sun in a cool, dry place.
  6. Be sure the storage area is well ventilated.
    TIP
    Do not use plastic or coated materials to cover the vehicle. They do not allow enough ventilation to prevent condensation, and may promote corrosion and oxidation.
  7. Turn the key off.
  8. Verify that tire pressure is at specification.
  9. Do not set the park brake. Block the wheels to prevent rolling.
  10. Fully charge the batteries. Leave the charger connected to maintain a full charge during the storage period, or check battery voltage each month during storage and recharge as needed to maintain a full charge. If the charger remains connected, check it monthly to verify proper operation.
    WARNING
    Do not cover the vehicle while the charger is connected. Dangerous levels of hydrogen gas could accumulate.

Removal from Storage

  1. Inspect all battery connections.
  2. Verify that batteries are fully charged.
  3. Verify that tire pressure is at specification.
  4. Perform the pre-ride inspection. See the Pre-Ride Inspection section of your owner’s manual for more information.
  5. Inspect and verify the tightness of the bolts, nuts and other fasteners.
  6. Lubricate at the intervals outlined in the Periodic Maintenance Chart.

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