Winter Engine Storage Tips

[Greg Barsamian]

A trick I got from that "Bub" guy: pour a small-portion of Marvel Mystery oil down the carb while the engine is running (when you see white smoke) shut the motor off. it will coat the valves, guides, cylinders & machined interior surfaces in the engine to protect it against moisture.

Plug the header collectors, cover the carb, and back off the "lash" on the valves,

If you have a "filled-block" make sure to replace it with 100% anti-freeze, run it thru the motor & water pump. The benifit is it lubricates the water pump, prevents freeze-plugs from rusting & leaking, and in the event that theres any water left in the block it will prevent it from freezing & cracking!

For non-filled blocks remove the factory plugs on the sides of the block & drain the water jackets, then install radiator drain cocks in place of the plugs for convenience in the future!

If left in a garage, leave the car on Jack stands, if left in a trailer remove & place the racing tires & battery into a warm environment, the natural oil in the rubber compound doesn't like the "sustained cold" of winter, (thanks Marvin)
Batteries will last longer in a warmer environment especially with the use of a battery tender

Lastly I was told to "drain-down and relieve the fuel pressure in the fuel lines,
(especially F.I. applications) if left fully pressurized all winter it has an "effect" on the rubber interior of braided fuel lines, and prevents "bleed-down" thru the system!

For vehicles with full interiors, Moth balls on Pie pans a MUST!
Mice hate the smell!

[cad]

x2 on using the radiator drain cocks on the side of the block. Not only is it convenient for storage prep, it is extremely helpful if you have to pull the intake or water pump, ie 0 mess.

Clark