Long term car storage?'s

[Tosh]

If it's windy, then definitely don't leave any windows cracked open. Instead make sure climate control system is left on 'fresh' and not 'recirc' nor 'off.' (Some cars default to 'recirc' when turned to 'off' or lose vacuum. Check what happens on this car, because this will make a big difference in how hot it gets inside and how fresh it stays.)
Apply a generous helping of leather and vinyl glop to interior. (But be ready to clean windows upon returning.)
Do what you can to block sun from interior.
With an extra jack and a couple of jackstands you could take the weight off the suspension and tires if the ground is firm enough.
Park only on a paved surface to minimize condensation from ground.

I would be most worried about birds, insects, and rodents making a mess and chewing wires. Nine months isn't really that long for the mechanical parts to sit.

 

[meep]

No Dessicants! Think I'd read they're sodium based and can inhibit corrosion.

Is it a humid location?

Consider using a marine foaming oil, sprayed into the intake / TB. Even plug holes if he wants to be thorough.

Consider brake fluid change, especially if it's beyond 2 yrs old, in the event there's water in the lines. seized pistons = no fun.

M

 

[JakeR22]

Shut engine off, put car in park, and go about your business.

 

[demarpaint]

Originally Posted By: meep
No Dessicants! Think I'd read they're sodium based and can inhibit corrosion.

Is it a humid location?

Consider using a marine foaming oil, sprayed into the intake / TB. Even plug holes if he wants to be thorough.

Consider brake fluid change, especially if it's beyond 2 yrs old, in the event there's water in the lines. seized pistons = no fun.

M


I thought about the fogging oil spray I use in my outboard engine, but I was worried about fouling the plugs and him having to change them when he gets back. He is not mechanically inclined.

As far as damp, the car will be in WA within a few hundred yards of the Pudget Sound, seems all it does there is rain..........Thanks for all the great replies and help! I will be head to see him next weekend and will print this info for him, and walk him through the steps so he can set the car up prior to deployment.

Frank D

 

[Kestas]

From my experience the parts on the car that will suffer the most are brakes (from corrosion), battery, and interior (from UV damage). There's not much you can do about the brakes. The others can be dealt with.

 

[Tosh]

Originally Posted By: Kestas
From my experience the parts on the car that will suffer the most are brakes (from corrosion), battery, and interior (from UV damage). There's not much you can do about the brakes.

Although if it's near due for a brake fluid replacement, a fluid change would prevent 9 months' worth of the brakes rotting from the inside. Same with coolant.

 

[Kestas]

I agree. I was addressing more of the external issues - mainly the rotor surface and sliding caliper.

 

[Tosh]

Yup.

You'd think with the car left at a military base, you could trust someone left behind to drive the ownerless cars once a week or so. Like a pet care fostering program.

 

[demarpaint]

Originally Posted By: Tosh
Yup.

You'd think with the car left at a military base, you could trust someone left behind to drive the ownerless cars once a week or so. Like a pet care fostering program.


That would be a great idea, and I am sure there are people that might even do that. His buddies are deploying with him, and its also an insurance issue. If I remember correctly when deployed and showing proof of deployment to his insurance company there is a reduction in insurance premium for the time he's away.

Frank D

 

[Kestas]

It should be simpler than that. When I store a car for the season I tell my insurance company who then puts the car "in suspension". Liability is removed, but comprehensive is kept on the car, all for a greatly reduced price.

 

[demarpaint]

Originally Posted By: Kestas
It should be simpler than that. When I store a car for the season I tell my insurance company who then puts the car "in suspension". Liability is removed, but comprehensive is kept on the car, all for a greatly reduced price.



This is his second deployment, however the first time deploying having his car with him. He discussed the details with the insurance company, and they said this is common for the Military, and won't be an issue. I'm learning everyday.

Thanks,
Frank D

 

[tackleberry625]

Originally Posted By: Kestas
From my experience the parts on the car that will suffer the most are brakes (from corrosion), battery, and interior (from UV damage). There's not much you can do about the brakes. The others can be dealt with.


I keep my 02 tundra covered up outside and drive it about once per month. I bought some of those vinyl type tire covers from the RV/motor home store to keep the elements (rain/sun) off the tires and brakes. They are rain proof and seem to be working very well.