Joker

I just replaced the engine in my 87 Pont Firebird, but did not have a chance to place any fluids in it (i.e anti-freeze, Oil). What is the best way to store a car through the winter? I know a garage, but what if it's out side.

Mikes86SC

First off, top off those fluids.

Here's what I do:
Fill the gas tank to prevent water from condending in the tank, and add a fuel stabilizer so the fuel does not go bad over the winter. Make sure your tires are full to prevent flat spots. Stuff rags in the tailpipes to prevevent condensation inside the exhaust. Place Bounce dryer sheets throughout the interior and engine compartment, as for some reason this seems to keep critters away. Place a container of "Damp-Rid" in the interior so you don't get a musty smell. Remove the battery, and if you have one, put it on a trickle charger. Remove the dash pad, as extreme cold usually results in it cracking.

The biggest winter threat is not so much snow but salt. At the very least, keep the car covered. If you have the space, Harbor Freight sells a "portable" garage for about $200. I put plastic on the ground so condensation forms under the plastic, and not on the bottom of the car.

I'm sure more people will chime in with more tips.

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

If the engine hasn't been started yet, there's no particular reason to put antifreeze in it. Assuming you haven't put water in it.

There should be some oil in/around things to help prevent corrosion. My personal favorite is http://www.amsoil.com/products/ame.html with its additional corrosion prohibitors (I run it year-round in two of my intermittent-use vehicles). Fill it and run it through the engine (you can do this w/o starting the engine), before putting it to bed for the winter. However, if this is a new/rebuilt engine, you'll want to drain it before you start the engine for break-in, as synthetic isn't the preferred lube for break-in. Run some oil into the cylinders through the air inlet (carb, TB, whatever), or into the spark plug holes, as well. I also use gasoline stabilizer ( http://www.amsoil.com/products/ast.html ) for winter-stored cars like my '57.

If the car is going to be outside, get a good-fitting cover that can be secured. The dryer sheets are a good idea for critter control, too (there's nothing worse than driving a car that's been a mouse motel). Consider putting it on blocks to unload the suspension & tires.

Joker

You said there was a way to circlate the oil without starting the engine how is that done? I will diffiantly do all the other ideas as well.

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

With an oil pump priming tool. Such as http://store.summitracing.com/defaul...ming&x=21&y=15