If you are like me and have a finished project, then I'm sure that you store it a lot during the year. I get questions about storing vehicles quite often, and I thought that I would share some information with you, some of which is obvious and some are things you may not have thought of. Take it from me, even if you think it's only going to be stored for a couple of weeks, it can turn into six months very easily with everyone's fast-paced lives here at the end of this century. If you have anything to add, please drop me a line.
Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center
SUGGESTIONS FOR PREPARATION OF VEHICLES FOR STORAGE
LESS THAN 3O-DAY STORAGE
Special consideration may be required when conditions of high humidity, extreme temperatures or outdoor storage are encountered. Loca experi - will dictate any additional protective measures for such conditions.
1. Wash vehicle exterior completely to remove surface dirt and underbody areas to remove corrosive elements.
2. Check engine coolant level and if necessary increase "anti-freeze' protection.
3. Check battery/batteries and inspect test hydrometer on Freedom or maintenance-free batteries and charge if green dot is not visible to avoid freezing and deterioration. Both battery cables should be disconnected at the battery/batteries to prevent gradual dis- charge, and the possibility of fire due to short circuits. On conventional batteries, check electrolyte specific gravity and charge if below 1.255
4. Check and inflate tires to maximum tire pressure shown on tire sidewall or to 40 lbs. pressure.
5. Vehicles are best stored in a clean, dry, closed or roofed area. It would be desirable to cover the vehicle, especially if exposed to corrosive elements or bird droppings with an appropriate vehicle cover. Caution should be taken where the wind might move the cover extensively as it may cause rub through of the paint.
6. Run engine until completely warmed up before shutting off ignition (at fast idle for a minimum of 15 minutes).
7. Make sure all windows are closed.
8. Leave parking brake in "Off" position. If car is equipped with automatic transmission, place selector lever in "Park" position.
If equipped with a manual transmission, the selector lever should be placed in "Reverse".
9. Check trunk and glove compartment for personal items that might freeze or deteriorate with time.
EXTENDED STORAGE BEYOND 30 DAYS
In the event vehicles are to be stored for an extended period beyond 30 days, the following items are suggested in addition to the steps given for vehicles that are to be stored less than 30 days.
1. Apply coat of wax to exterior painted and plated surfaces.
2. Start and run engine until completely warm. Drain engine oil and replace filter element, refill with fresh oi1. If vehicle is equipped with air-conditioning, the unit should be operated during this final engine warm up to lubricate compressor seal.
A. gasoline Engines Only
After the oil has been replaced, remove the air cleaner and pour 1/2 to 1 pint of 10 or lighter oi1 into the carburetor air intake with the engine running. Pour slowly at first, then rapidly using the last quarter to stall the engine. Replace the air cleaner.
B. Diesel Engines Only
Remove all glow plugs, with the throttle in half half-open position, crank the engine for 5 seconds and replace the glow plugs.
3. Drain coolant from radiator, cylinder block and heater.
4. If freezing temperatures are expected, the battery should be removed from the vehicle and stored in a cool, dry area at above freezing temperatures. Also, do not place the battery directly on a concrete floor; use a piece of wood between the battery and floor.
CAUTION: As part of the normal function of an automobile storage, battery hydrogen gas is produced through chemical action. This gas is toxic and extremely combustible when mixed with air. Do not store battery where it will be exposed to open flame, or where it is exposed to children.
5. Place blocks under front and rear suspension so that tires do not contact the ground.
6. Drain fuel from fuel tank, fuel lines and carburetor (gas engines) to reduce the fire hazard and to prevent gumming of the fuel as it evaporates.
7. Remove windshield wiper arms and blades and store in vehicle.
REACTIVATING VEHICLE AFTER EXTENDED TO STORAGE
1. Check oil and fluid levels and replenish as necessary in the following components: engine, radiator, crankcase, transmission and differential, gasoline and oil and refrigerant in the air-conditioning system.
2. Check under hood and under vehicle for nesting creatures and evidence of leakage of oils or fluids or physical damage.
3. Inflate tires to the recommended pressure.
4. Clean the battery end of cables and install a fully charged battery.
5. Lubricate chassis suspension and steering components.
6. Check brake operation and fluid level. Bleed and adjust brakes if necessary.
7. Remove spark plugs and clean and gap (gasoline engines).
8. Check and clean the carburetor air filter assembly
IF VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH AIR CONDITIONING
9. Disconnect the compressor clutch wires before attempting to start the vehicle.
10. Check to see if the compressor hub and clutch driver can be turned by hand. If not, the unit should be broken loose by manually turning the shaft with a wrench on the shaft lockout on the clutch driver plate. A few "rocking" turns should be sufficient so that the shaft can be turned by hand.
11. Reconnect coil wires and check belt tension. Run the engine with air conditioning on for a minute or two to reseal the system.