With a Nor'easter and its associated snow and ice expected this weekend up her in Mass., the time has come to put her away for the winter.
Here's a few tips gleaned over the years to insure a trouble-free spring startup:
Fuel
1.) Add Stabil® or similar product and top-off gas tank to reduce moisture buildup and preserve volatility of gasoline. Start and warm motor, turn off fuel pump (if electric) and run fuel system dry.
Engine
1.) Top-off coolant. Use hydrometer to check
antifreeze protection. (I make sure it's good to 10 degrees)
2.) Change
oil and filter.
3.) Remove air cleaners and mist intake with W-D40® or similar.
4.) Remove sparkplugs and mist cylinders with W-D40® or similar. (now's a good time to cold-lash them valves!!!)
Electrics
1.) Mist fuse box with CRC® or similar to reduce moisture corrosion.
2.) Remove battery to cool, dry spot and trickle charge.
Miscellaneous
1.)I usually leave the car on the ground as opposed to resting it on jack stands. (the idea of having the shocks fully extended has never sat right with me) Every couple of weeks, I push it forward or back a few feet to change the tires contact point.
2.) I remove the Halon fire bottles (I have 2. I don't think sub-freezing weather will hurt them all that much, but they will be just fine indoors, too!). 3.) Make sure the Trigo's have anti-seize liberally applied to all wheel/hub contact points.
4.) Place some dessicant packs in the trunk and glove compartment, and throw a few around on the carpeting and behind the seats.
5.) Treat the leather or vinyl to a preservative spray. A quick spray of Eagle 1 touch-up to the paint wouldn't hurt either. This stuff is great- you can cover the entire car in 5 minutes.
6.) Slap her on the ass, cover her up, head to the couch, and open a brew.
I realize most of you cold-weather dwellers know this stuff, but I thought it might help somebody out. It would be interesting to see what other folks do too!
Winterizing Tips
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