A motorcycle submerged in floodwater should not be started immediately.

KatadataOTO – The sudden floods in Jakarta, Bogor, Tangerang and Bekasi caused residents to panic. As a result, they didn't have time to save their vehicles.

As seen in Bekasi, West Java, dozens of motorcycles were submerged in high water for a full day.

This condition certainly requires special attention. Because a motorcycle submerged in a flood should not be started immediately.

“Don't start it (the engine) right away. It's better to just remove the ignition key,” said Wahyu Budhi, Training Analyst at PT Wahana Makmur Sejati to KatadataOTO, on Tuesday (04/05).

Photo : Antara

He explained that there are several steps vehicle owners must take. First is to clean the motorcycle of mud deposits.

Then, check the condition of your two-wheeled vehicle in detail. For example, in the air filter section, check whether there is water or not.

“The fuel tank must also be checked or drained first. Don't let the fuel mix with water,” he continued.

Next, the owner can drain the engine and gear oil on a matic motorcycle. Because if it's submerged in the flood for quite a while, there's a possibility that water has entered.

If so, the oil color will turn brown. Then its quality will also decrease, so it cannot lubricate the mechanical heart of the engine.

“The exhaust should also be checked, as it is prone to water entry. So it must be opened so that water is not sucked back into the engine when it is started,” said Wahyu.

Then, the electrical parts of the flooded motorcycle must be checked. Parts like the wiring, CDI, or ECU must be ensured to be clean.

You can dry the vehicle's wiring using air from a compressor. Make sure no water is left.

“Don't start it before it's completely dry. The fear is that there is still water inside (which can cause an electrical short circuit),” he concluded.

Especially for Matic Motorcycles

Now for matic motorcycle users, there is one part of your vehicle that requires special attention, namely the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Photo : KatadataOTO

If it has been submerged for a long time, it can cause damage and rust if not handled immediately.

“The Drive Pulley and Driven Pulley must be cleaned. If necessary, add and replace with new grease or stamp pad,” Wahyu emphasized.

If all the steps above have been taken, then people can use their motorcycles again. Such as for work and daily activities.