I. Daily Inspections and Driving Habits
• Before Trip: Confirm that the fuel, engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels are normal; check tire pressure according to the nameplate values and inspect for wear and cracks; ensure lights, horn, and turn signals are working properly; check for loose fasteners and leaks or abnormal noises from the frame and rear axle.
• While Driving: Start and shift gears smoothly, avoiding sudden acceleration and prolonged periods of partial clutch engagement; downshift early to maintain power when heavily loaded or going uphill; never coast in neutral on long downhill slopes, rely on engine braking to control speed; clean the chassis and braking system promptly after wading through water or muddy sections to prevent rust and dragging.
II. Regular Maintenance Schedule and Items
• First Service and Oil Change: It is recommended to complete the first service within approximately 1000 kilometers for new vehicles, changing the engine oil and oil filter; thereafter, change the engine oil every 2000–3000 kilometers depending on operating conditions, shortening the interval appropriately for dusty, heavily loaded, or frequently start-stop conditions.
• Level 1 Maintenance (approx. 1000–2000 km): Clean or replace the air filter; clean the carburetor and fuel switch; check and adjust the free play of the clutch, throttle, and brakes; check all wiring harness connectors and fasteners; clean, lubricate, and adjust the tension of the chain/belt drive system; check brake pad/shoe thickness and brake fluid condition; adjust valve clearance if necessary.
• Level 2 Maintenance (approx. 3000–6000 km): Remove carbon deposits from the cylinder head, piston tops, and exhaust ports; check clutch and brake pad wear and adjust or replace them; clean the fuel tank, carburetor, and air filter, and blow out any blockages in the fuel and air passages; check front and rear wheel rim runout and tire wear; clean, lubricate, and adjust the clearance of the steering column and shock absorbers.
• Level 3 Maintenance (approximately 6000–10000 km): Engine assembly disassembly and inspection, measuring piston-cylinder wall and crankshaft bearing clearances; clutch disassembly and inspection of springs and friction plates; transmission gear and bearing condition assessment; steering column bearing and front shock absorber disassembly and maintenance; alternator and starter brushes and commutator wear inspection and replacement.
III. Seasonal Use and Long-Term Parking
• Winter Use: Choose low-viscosity engine oil; for water-cooled models, use compliant antifreeze and regularly check freezing point and fluid level; preheat moderately before starting, and for electric starts, do not attempt for more than 5 seconds at a time, with a 10–15 second interval before trying again, avoiding continuous revving; after starting, gradually warm up from idle to low gears before gradually shifting to higher gears.
• Rainy Season and Car Washing: Avoid direct high-pressure water jets onto the engine, carburetor, and air filter intake; after driving through water, clean the engine promptly and warm it up at low speed, draining any water accumulated in the muffler to prevent rust and abnormal noises.
Rainy Season and Car Washing: Avoid direct spray of water onto the engine, carburetor, and air filter intake; after driving through water, clean the engine promptly and warm it up at low speed, draining any water accumulated in the muffler to prevent rust and abnormal noises.
• Long-term parking: After cleaning and drying the vehicle, drain the fuel from the fuel tank and seal it for storage. Also drain the fuel from the carburetor. Remove the battery, fully charge it, and store it. Recharge the battery approximately once a month. Add a small amount of oil to the exhaust pipe for rust prevention. Inject approximately 20 ml of four-stroke engine oil into the spark plug orifice and rotate the crankshaft to ensure even coating. Maintain standard tire pressure and park in a well-ventilated and dry place. Use a vehicle cover if necessary.
IV. Key Component Maintenance and Safety Tips
• Braking System: Regularly check the thickness and wear indicators of brake pads/shoes. For drum brakes, check the adjustment mechanism's safety markings and replace if they exceed the limits. For hydraulic disc brakes, check the brake fluid level and for leaks. Replace the brake fluid on schedule and bleed any air to ensure stable braking force and proper return to center.
• Transmission System: Clean, lubricate, and adjust the tension of chain drives according to mileage and operating conditions, maintaining lubrication and tension within a reasonable range. For belt drives, check for wear and tension; replace immediately if cracks or slippage are found.
• Electrical and Fuel: Keep battery terminals clean and secure, and apply anti-oxidation grease to the terminals; ensure wiring harness connectors are waterproof and abrasion-resistant, and use matching fuses; never substitute metal wires; use compliant octane fuel to avoid clogging fuel injectors or carburetors due to inferior fuel.
Note: Vehicle maintenance and repair involve personal and property safety; please strictly follow the product instruction manual and, if necessary, have it performed by qualified professionals.
