Since we no doubt have some new members that are storing their cars for the first time, I thought I'd post my check list which you might find of some value. As you'll see I have an old MG that I have been storing for 30 some winters as well.



S2000 & MGA WINTER STORAGE
last updated January 12, 2004

Unfortunately we are approaching the time of year when we put our cars in storage for the winter. We all know the effect of storage on a car. The longer the storage the more problems we have with getting it back on the road. Throughout the years I have heard and tried a number of storage techniques. The following are those that I have used and they have worked well for me.

BASIC RULES: Freezing temperatures require a proper solution of antifreeze, which all car should already have. A full tank of gasoline reduces the amount of water that can be absorbed in the tank and slows the rate at which the gasoline turns to varnish. Fresh engine oil reduces the etching caused by dirty, contaminated oil which becomes acidic. The brake master cylinder should already be topped off, if not do so since this reduces the possibility of water contamination.

STORAGE CONSIDERATIONS: Considerations should include location, access to the car, traffic around the car, humidity, temperature, animals - both pets and rodents, and any anticipated maintenance you plan to perform while in storage. Choose a location that is dry and that air can circulate thru to help remove condensation. Do not store it in a barn. The break down of cattle manure and urine produces some corrosive gas. Place a sheet of plastic under the car will help stop moisture coming up from the floor and collecting under the car. If you wish, cover the car with a car cover of cloth fabric, old sheet or blanket

 

This stuff is great, and a little scary. I am a new owner and have only been able to drive my S a few times in the last month.

If I am able to take it out a few times a month should I be taking these rodent precautions?

 

Generally speaking I'd say most field mice have found some place comfortable already, but you never know. As long as your driving the car your odds are better. I've only heard one time of one that took a liking to guy glove box even though it was his daily driver. Once you have them, there's a real high probability you'll have them again as they seem to like to return to the same general surroundings each year. Earlier this fall I heard a mouse, red squirrel, or a chipmunk in my insulation and someone helped themselves to all the initial mouse poision I put out (about 10 cans); however, I've seen no evidence of any return except in my cold storage area, where they had a second helping. My second garage is unattached and near the edge of woods, so that probably complicates things.

Jeeez, Harry, that's quite a story. Glad you are aright.

Over the years when I didn't take as good of precautions I did have them nesting in the MG... heater ductwork, under the spare tire, etc. and they will tear up your leather seats, etc. when building their nest and perhaps like you say if they are really hungry.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by hecash
Your mice have no self-respect.

 

dlq04,

Your in Jackson? I would love to see both of your cars when the weather turns.

 

Anytime.

 

Wow, I had some mice issues when I had my Alfa. They got underhood and decided to use firewall insulation as a nest. They also chewed the lower radiator hose a little. It was not totally through, but it did leak. This was before I worked on my own cars and on the way to the mechanic it kept overheating. When I got it to the mechanic's and opened the hood a small fire started burning, of all things, the firewall material that had been pulled out and placed on top of my intake.

I think I am fairly safe where I am, but now I feel compelled to go get some steel wool and wire.

 

I had stored my old '68 olds, with a rebuilt Rocket 350 in a barn under coverage, with plastic under the vehicle... being only about 18 at the time... I failed to take rodent control into consideration...

Needless to say, the car was undriveable that spring!!

I swear there was at least a pound and a half of rat shit in that car!! My entire back seat was eaten out and thru to the trunk... and to add insult to injury... I had the mecha of all bee hives in the passenger side door!!! You couldn't get within ten feet of the thing without a net, gas mask, and a bug zapper!!

I was absolutely devastated and pissed! I had to sell the car to the junk yard for about $300 (they said they could salvage the engine, and that was it).

.....hindsight is always 20/20

 

Woe, scary stories guys. But thanks for the info and the great writeups.

 

How about places to store the vehicle that are safe in the chicago land area. And what are you guys paying?