Hey guys, I'm mainly asking for a buddy that is going awaya to the Airforce, but I would like to know also. Since I know a lot of you guys store your vehicles for long periods of time, you guys will be the best resource.

What are the steps involved in preparing your vehicles for storage? The care will probably there for at least months on end at a time because he will be in the military and only be home several times a year.




[Modified by hungsteR, 12:46 AM 4/22/2002]

 

Here's some tips:
remove or disconnect your battery
full tank of gas
have it sitting on jack stands
car cover

 

What, does he not plan on getting his car back after basic training and technical school?

 

Hung, you should start the car every now and then. The reason for the jackstands because the tires will warp. So, hope that helps.

 

So this is all that is needed? Do the major fluids need to be changed?

I believe he will be stationed in somwhere far away so he will only be able to be home once in a couple of months.

 

A can of Sta*Bil in the gas tank...

 

I always heard that you should not keep the car on jackstands because the suspension needs to be under load and if its on jackstands the suspension just hangs in the breeze. Correct me if I wrong. This might be an old wives tale.

 

He should put the car on stands so the suspension is compressed half way. If the suspension are left hanging, you risk damaging the seals inside the chock absorbers. When he gets back, he should change the engine oil.

 

Here's a winter-storage checklist that was recently posted to the Porsche mailing list. Applicable items were then posted on an NSX list at NSX Prime - http://www.nsxprime.com/FAQ/BuySell/...rm_storage.htm More tips can be found there as well.

Wash & wax the car prior to the day you intend to store it, then drive the car a little in order to help evacuate water from brakes, nooks, & crannies.
Apply leather treatment to all leather to prevent drying and cracking.
Fluids:
Change the oil and filter.
Check windshield washer fluid - be sure it is winterized with antifreeze.
Add StaBil to fuel tank (run engine afterwards) & top off fuel tank.
Check antifreeze strength
For annual storage suspension on blocks is NOT recommended as the shock absorber pistons are fully extended and can corrode and stick.
Inflate tires to 8 PSI above the maximum rating on the tire to avoid flat spotting.
Lube electric antenna mast with thin oil and retract.
Disconnect and remove battery or pull fuse of clock and burglar alarm to prevent battery drainage; pulled batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place OFF of the floor, preferably on a piece of wool.. slow charge in mid-winter every several months (Personally I've had good luck with small Schumacher 1 Amp smart charger which charges only when battery voltage begins to fall - about $25.).
Lube door, hood, trunk and targa rubber seals with silicone spray. Close doors, hood, and trunk to FIRST LOCK position so that seals are relaxed. Be sure hood and interior door lights are not on.
Place small wood blocks under wiper arms so blades are off glass.
If high humidity conditions are expected, leave a desiccant bag in the car.
Close the heater flaps on rear engine cars to prevent rodent entry.
Seal intakes and exhaust pipe with tape or towels.
Relax Targa tops.
If exposed to direct sunlight, cover glass to protect interior.
Park vehicle on large sheet of plastic to prevent ground moisture from attacking underbody.
Cover with a QUALITY car cover which will allow humidity & moisture passage.
Do NOT set the handbrake.
Say Goodbye ....

 

I thought that the oil was supposed to be changed before storage.

 

Yes, change fluids before storage.

 

Sounds great, thanks to everyone.

 

This is just my personnal preference. I don't really see the advantage of changing the oil and then letting the car sit for 5 month. I prefer to change the oil and the filter just before I start it up in the spring. That way I know that a part of the mechanical components are covered in oil. The "dry start" is not as bad. Unless somebody can give me a good advantage in changing the oil before storage.

 

"It's important to put fresh oil and a new filter in the car. Otherwise, contaminants in the old oil will have a field day corroding the insides of your engine."
- Porsche sitehttp://www.968.net/winterstorage.htm

If using synthetic oil, it is only necessary to change oil before storage. If using dino oil, change your oil before AND AFTER storage, as it breaks down quicker.

 

 

This is Hungster's Air Force buddy. I just wanted to thank everyone for their input on how I should store my car, it's truly appreciated.