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Storage can involve several
components that can deteriorate and lead to related damage
if not maintained.
Battery: The battery
should have a trickle charger so that it is actively
prevented from losing its charge. Modern cars have computer
components that use battery power while sitting. Over
several weeks these computers may draw enough to drain the
battery if there is no trickle charge being applied and if
no one runs the engine every few weeks to charge the
battery.
Oil: The oil should be
recently changed. Do not store the car with old oil,
planning to change it when you take it out of storage. It is
important to have the engine sit with clean, uncontaminated
oil during the storage period.
Gasoline: Run the fuel
down to less than one-half a tank, pour in a gasoline
preservative, and fill up the tank just before storage.
Gasoline preservatives are available at most auto parts
store.
Facility: Store the car
in a clean, bug and rodent-free, secured garage facility.
Some reasonable amount of fresh air flow is desirable. Crack
open two windows just to allow fresh air to circulate.
Starting: It is
desirable to have someone start and run the engine for
several minutes about every three weeks. This will allow all
fluids to flow through their lines, prevent moisture and
contaminant build up in the oil, and help keep seals tight
and leak-free. |