simple storage tips

[toml]

hi. looking for some simple tips: what should i do to store it over winter, minimally?

i have year round insurance so putting it on axel stands and draining all fluids doesn't sound appealing since pacific northwest (usa) winters are long but pretty mild and there's an odd day or two where i might take it for a spin.

oh, its in a detached, enclosed but not heated garage on a battery tender at all times.

thanks in advance!

[JamesL]

Mouse traps and rat poison should be your first purchase

[Bob G ✝︎]

Drain engine oil and put  in fresh oil and new filter  ditto for the fuel filter. Check battery and top off with distilled water. I use the CTEK battery maintenance smart charger. If the fluid in the radiator is fresh and OK leave otherwise change it to the Mercedes-Benz brand. Check spark plugs and replace if they show excessive signs of wear.

Check tire pressure and inflate a little over or put chassis on jack stands. Treat all the leather or vinyl with a protectant like 303 Aerospace Protectant.

A friend of mine who restores cars sprays a product that keeps bugs and pests off the carpeting.

You might want to disconnect the coil wire and battery cables but  that would hamper the slow charge of the CTEK unit to keep your  battery ready to start the engine.

Check differential oil, brake fluid level top off.
 
Use a good car cover. I put blankets under the car cover on the flat areas to protect against scratches to the paint finish.
Any other thoughts?

Bob Geco

[graphic66]

I like to put a plastic bin in the car filled with lump charcoal. It acts as a desiccant and an Oder eliminator.

[Bob G MN]

Because of dampness in the Northwest you might want to put plastic sheeting under the car.  If you plan to drive it don't do short distances.  You really need to warm it up completely.

Bob

[hauser]

You may want to use a fuel stabilizer.

http://www.goldeagle.com/sta-bil/index.htm

[Jonny B]

This is an oft discussed item, use the search function and you should be able to get a bunch of information, and all in one place.

Use "storage" in the search line, and limit to title only, not the entire message.

[Benz Dr.]

I never store cars up on jack stands. The car is designed to sit on the suspension and I believe it actually puts undue stress on places that normally have little or none when the car is just sitting there on its wheels.