How to store an engine out of car?

[ytech]

Hello,
I have a low mileage (35 K miles) Mercedes I6 engine (long block) that I bought a few months ago. I plan to use the bottom end with a slightly modified cylinder head sometime this year. The engine is currently in my garage (which is not temperature controlled) what preventive measures can I take in order to protect the assembly?

 

[tomcat27]

I would remove the spark plugs, put an ounce or two of oil in each cylinder, and rotate the engine (in the proper direction) a couple of turns. then plug the intake and exhaust openings with foil and/or something that mice wont chew through.

 

[JeffKeryk]

We used to plop them in an old tire. Dang those Pontiac motors were heave...
The oil in cylinder advice is sound.

 

[ytech]

Originally Posted by tomcat27
I would remove the spark plugs, put an ounce or two of oil in each cylinder, and rotate the engine (in the proper direction) a couple of turns.

Would fogging oil suit this better than motor oil?

Originally Posted by tomcat27
then plug the intake and exhaust openings with foil and/or something that mice wont chew through.

I have used a multiple layers of painters tape.

 

[demarpaint]

My brother stored a Chevy 350 4 bolt main engine for over 20 years, it was fine when he sold it to his friend. He had it on an engine stand, removed the plugs and cranked the engine so he could get a good amount of oil in each of the cylinders then put the spark plugs back in. He filled the sump with cheap oil as high as it could possibly be filled. Then covered/wrapped it in heavy contractor grade trash bags with duct tape nice and snug. He lowered it onto an old tire, leveling it as best as possible onto a strong pallet. It stayed in a corner of the garage until he ended up selling it. If he remembered he'd toss a few moth balls near it from time to time.

Prior to his buddy firing it up he dumped the oil, put in fresh oil, a new filter and plugs, then started it. It smoked a bit and then ran fine for many years after that.

 

[Linctex]

I have stored engines for many, many, many years without even fogging oil.

Just plug all the openings, that the biggest thing.

 

[rubberchicken]

If your area is average to high humidity, then I would recommend marine fogging oil for the cylinders. A can is not expensive if you shop around: regular auto parts stores might gouge you but marine stores carry this stuff by the pallet. I have a buddy that did not fog his Ford 351w in a Mastercraft ski boat, and the cylinders that had open valves had enough rust to prevent the engine from turning over, even with a long breaker / cheater bar on the crank and letting the rings soak with oil. It sat for 3-4 years in a garage, and he had to pull the engine and put new rings in it.

Star Brite, CRC, Stabil are popular brands. Star Brite is a well-known brand in the marine industry.

https://www.amazon.com/CRC-Engine-S...d=1551676161&s=automotive&sr=1-8

 

[Triple_Se7en]

Originally Posted by demarpaint
How to store an engine out of car?


Lots & lots of shrinkwrap.....lol