Date: Sat, 13 Aug 2022 15:43:52 -0500
Reply-To: John Rodgers <jrodgers113@GMAIL.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: John Rodgers <jrodgers113@GMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: Vanagon storage
In-Reply-To: <DM6PR19MB2875D8CB5E3EA5AE66572779BA669@DM6PR19MB2875.namprd19.prod.outlook.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
There are a number of things here to protect the vehicle.
As suggested fill the fuel tank and add a fuel stabilizer. Gas that sits a
l;ong time thends tro oproduces a type of varnish that clogs things and is
hard to clean up/out.
Disconnect the battery when vehicle is not in use. Even as little
voltage draw as the clock can kill the battery over time. If there is
even the slightest voltage leak anywhere that will kill the battery. Might
even be better to remove the battery and store it on a board. The slightest
electrolyte film on the surface of the battery is enough to provide a
circuit for voltage drainage, thus the board to insulate it.
Run the engine to full heat periodically. There are two reasons. Oiled
surfaces, galleries and lifters need to be kept filled to prevent rust and
corrosion. The second reason is the seals need to be kept lubricated so
they don't dry out. There will be some condensation as the engine cools but
if the engine is brought to temperature and kept there for a little while
the moisture will evaporate.
Anything that moves in the van be sure and move it periodically. Pump the
brakes, move the heat/air controls, run the windows up and down, Operate
the wipers, run front and rear blowers.Motors when allowed to just sit are
notorious for developing an oxide on the commutators and then not running.
Work the parking brake handle.
If possible get someone to drive it around the block for you at least. GOOD
FOR THE TIRES.
The worst thing you can do for any vehicle is to let it go idle, and not be
used.
On Sat, Aug 13, 2022 at 2:58 PM David Boan <dboan@outlook.com> wrote:
> A few thoughts about storage (after storing mine for a winter) ...
>
> Just starting the engine, letting it warm up, and then turning it off can
> be harmful as it causes oil dilution by fuel and moisture. An article in
> Popular Mechanics says if you are going to start it then do at least a
> 30-mile drive at least every 60 days.
>
> Other considerations ...
>
> Wash and wax it.
> If storing outside, get a cover.
> Top off the gas tank and either add fuel stabilizer and/or use non-ethanol
> gas.
> Change the oil.
> Attach a battery manager.
> Do not set the parking brake.
> Cover areas where critters may be able to enter the van.
> Are you parking in a garage? If outdoors, consider a moisture barrier
> under the van and pads under the tires. If on concrete, some people put
> plastic over the concrete, mainly in humid climates.
> Put rags under the wiper blades to keep them from sticking.
> Lubricate hinges, locks, and other small moving parts.
>
> Just my $.02. 😉
>
> Dave B
> Boise
> ________________________________
> From: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com> on behalf of Dan N
> <dn92610@GMAIL.COM>
> Sent: Saturday, August 13, 2022 1:37 PM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
> Subject: Vanagon storage
>
> Hi all,
>
> Recently I broke my right leg during a fall... so I can't drive. The Dr.
> says partial healing is about 6 months and full healing is about 12 months,
> he will tell me when I can drive. For a van that can not be driven for some
> time here are some opinions I got.
>
> 1. Do not start the van until you are able to drive it.
> 2. Start the van once a week and let it idle for 10 to 15 mn.
> 3. Only start the van if you can drive for about 20 miles so there will be
> no condensation in the engine. Otherwise just leave it alone.
>
> So... according to you.. what should I do?
>
> Thank you for your help.
>
> dan
>
| 
