Jon O.
Well-Known Member
I'm still new to cars, what should I do to prepare for winter storage? Im going to cover the car, but what else should I do to make sure that it will start when spring comes?
I did put a full tank, my dad told me that one. How do I know if the antifreeze is good.Full tank of gas, some people swear by products like Sta-bil but I usually don’t worry about it however I do use an additive in my fuel at every fill-up so I put my faith in that. make sure that the antifreeze is up to the task if not in a climate controlled environment. I disconnect my batteries and as spring approaches I’ll put them on a battery tender. If you think you should worry about rodents in your area there are steps you can take to detour them.
These are no more than $5.00 at any Auto store...I did put a full tank, my dad told me that one. How do I know if the antifreeze is good.
Oh... Like I said, I'm new. There is one of these sitting in our garage, thanks!
1- Stuff socks in the tailpipes and breather intake (red or yellow best colors)I'm still new to cars, what should I do to prepare for winter storage? Im going to cover the car, but what else should I do to make sure that it will start when spring comes?
How many months does your winter last for?1- Stuff socks in the tailpipes and breather intake (red or yellow best colors)
2-Remove and store the battery in the basement.
3-Change the oil to prevent sludge forming in the pan from sitting in the cold
4-Check glycol value to -25 minimum
5-Raise the car on blocks under the frame to relieve pressure on ball joints causing grease to squeeze from the top socket and this also prevents tire flat-spotting. Let the suspension hang.
6-Loosen tension all all drive belts (they do have "memory) to relieve horizontal pressure on accessory bearings
7-If you're picky, place an air freshener, dessicant or whatever in the car before closing up
8-Make a list of what you've done and place it on the windshield under the cover.
Depending on how much you value your car, the climate, how long of storage and where there may be other precautions you can take.
Good advice, thank you.1- Stuff socks in the tailpipes and breather intake (red or yellow best colors)
2-Remove and store the battery in the basement.
3-Change the oil to prevent sludge forming in the pan from sitting in the cold
4-Check glycol value to -25 minimum
5-Raise the car on blocks under the frame to relieve pressure on ball joints causing grease to squeeze from the top socket and this also prevents tire flat-spotting. Let the suspension hang.
6-Loosen tension all all drive belts (they do have "memory) to relieve horizontal pressure on accessory bearings
7-If you're picky, place an air freshener, dessicant or whatever in the car before closing up
8-Make a list of what you've done and place it on the windshield under the cover.
Depending on how much you value your car, the climate, how long of storage and where there may be other precautions you can take.
let the suspension hang is exactly what you don't want to do
simple enough, thanks. My Dad made it seem like much more than it really is.I wash the car, drive it in the garage, disconnect the battery, toss a bunch of dryer sheets around in it and throw a cover on it. That's it. Been doing it like that for many years.
I never start the car periodically over the winter. If it does need to be started, such as I need the spot in the garage to fix a DD, it gets run until it's warmed up completely.