Classics winter storage tips to prevent damage
Classics winter storage tips is a guide to help reduce the effects long term storage. When cars sit for long periods, drivetrain rubber seals, wiper blades, tires etc., take on a memory of the deformation. Enclosed items such as the fuel tank and drivetrain internals suffer from condensation due to temperature variation and the lack of splash lubrication to coat the parts. Bare metals left open to air corrode. Even the interior of the car suffers from a lack of circulation as interior materials are constantly ‘off-gassing’. Rodents can feast on your wiring or create a new winter home in your engine compartment. Ideally start the car every few weeks and move it around even up and down the driveway to coat the internals with oil and reduce the chance of tires ‘Flat Spotting’.
A. Disconnect the negative terminal of battery.
B. Put 45lbs of air in all the tires.
(Try to periodically roll the car backwards or forwards so the weight does not stay in one spot on the tire)
C. Completely fill the fuel tank. (This reduces condensation in the area above the fuel.
Add a Fuel Stabilizer if more than 60 days of storage is contemplated
D. Place small blocks of wood under the wiper arms to lift the rubber blades off the glass.
E. If the car is stored in a garage, apply a good coat of wax but do not remove it until first drive, (Carnuba is ideal)
F. If possible leave the windows down 10mm. (Not enough for any pests to gain access).
G. Place a cookie sheet with Cow Brand Baking Soda spread out on it on the floor. It will absorb stale odours.
H. Put steel wool in exhaust pipes to keep rodents out.
I. Irish Spring soap shavings placed around the car also deters mice.
