Winter storage advice?
Discussion
I have stored a few cars for long periods of time and not had any adverse issues.
Full tank of fuel as mentioned should minimise moisture in the tank
If using a cover then make sure the car is meticulously clean. Buy a breathable cover which will allow moisture to escape and ensure the cover is securely in place. I recommend a cover net that will prevent the cover ballooning and lifting (Coveryourcar.co.uk sell them)
Trickle charger on the battery (Ctek can just be connected and left) or disconnect the battery and remove it. I've killed many batteries leaving them connected and allowing them to discharge way too far.
Over inflate tyres to prevent flat spots.
Some say to run the engine up to temperature every so often. I've read other comments about the heating cooling causing condensation. I've left mine without running for lengths of time to no ill effect.
Full tank of fuel as mentioned should minimise moisture in the tank
If using a cover then make sure the car is meticulously clean. Buy a breathable cover which will allow moisture to escape and ensure the cover is securely in place. I recommend a cover net that will prevent the cover ballooning and lifting (Coveryourcar.co.uk sell them)
Trickle charger on the battery (Ctek can just be connected and left) or disconnect the battery and remove it. I've killed many batteries leaving them connected and allowing them to discharge way too far.
Over inflate tyres to prevent flat spots.
Some say to run the engine up to temperature every so often. I've read other comments about the heating cooling causing condensation. I've left mine without running for lengths of time to no ill effect.
Henry Fiddleton said:
Also worth keeping an eye on any kind of mice paying a visit on your car. A friend had a mouse in his car whilst stored for a few months - was pretty much an insurance write off with the wiring.
I use an electric ultra sonic mouse deterrent in the garage - hope it works!
They don't work .. you need proper baits setting. Please against each of the four wheels.I use an electric ultra sonic mouse deterrent in the garage - hope it works!
RizzoTheRat said:
If you're worried about moisture inside the car due to the leaky door seals, take a look at the absorbent crystals/gels that are sold for putting in caravans over the winter
Its more than a bit moisture, itll end up soaking in there as they are leaking quite a bit. I've got them taped up at the moment. Main concern is the paintwork form the sun and bird droppings as the car for its age is in fantastic condition, the paintwork is brilliant and I don't want it to deteriorate.
If it was mine i would just drive it home put the handbrake on and hang up the keys. I would be tempted to take it for a decent drive on dry salt free days. Over the years I have left cars for months and just got back in and started using them again. Never had any real issues. biggest problem i had was a sticking clutch and a Morris Minor I left every year for 10 years. But that was always solved easily and would have happened whatever I did before parking it.
GreenV8S said:
If those are recent pictures then it's an exceptionally tidy looking car for its age and looks like it's been well cared for.
Thanks! Yeah they are recent pictures. It is in great condition for its age, no rust and no lacquer peel which I know is usually common on these cars. That's the reason I want to protect it as much as possible over winter. Would be much easier if I had a garage!Chrismawa said:
Thanks! Yeah they are recent pictures. It is in great condition for its age, no rust and no lacquer peel which I know is usually common on these cars. That's the reason I want to protect it as much as possible over winter. Would be much easier if I had a garage!
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