Cold storage

[William B.]

If a C2/C3 is prepared for cold weather, what are the repercussions, if any, for storing the vehicles in an enclosed area that is unheated and may drop to below zero at times. I am running out of garage space. Thanks.

[Norm B.]

Re: Cold storage

By "prepared" I am assuming that you mean anti-freeze, full fuel tank, battery disconnected, etc. I would be more concerned about temperature changes that could cause condensation than actual cold. The barn my C2 is stored in every winter is secure and dry but is a little on the drafty side. I like it that way to keep any chances of condensation down.

Norm

[Tom H.]

Re: Cold storage

If you truly have it prepared, you should see no real harm in keeping the car in a cold facility. You did not mention how long the car will be stored though.

Like Norm said, the fluctuation in temperature causing moisture is the one of the worst drawbacks to storing one in uncontrolled conditions.

[Joe R.]

Re: Cold storage

Change the oil before storage using a viscosity that is good for the coldest expected temperature. Test the antifreeze to make sure it the block won't freeze and crack during the coldest spells.

Joe

[Donald L.]

Re: Cold storage

The biggest risk would be critters who would find your car more comfortable than the elements.

[Joe R.]

Re: Cold storage

Donald,

Right you are, I hadn't thought about them. On another thread here, I heard that mice hate the smell of Irish Spring. I now have four bars in my garage. They also don't like mothballs.

Joe

[Michael W.]

Re: Cold storage

This question usually doesn't come up until November or so. Must be an early winter where you are.

In addition to the usual advice about maintaining low and constant humidity, resist the temptation to start the engine every now and then 'just for fun'. It doesn't need it and simply accelerates wear and tear.

[John S.]

Re: Cold storage

disconnect battery and lay green board drywall under car. drywall will prevent moisture from getting under car. you can drive on the drywall and it doesn't break. purchase a "breathable" cover. i have never needed to start a car in the winter, but occasionally push the car a foot to have weight on a different area of the tire.

[Stuart F.]

Re: Cold storage

The coated "green" drywall idea is probably a good one for any part of the country or time of year. I have always been concerned about water draw out of the concrete rusting the frame. I used to have a heavy vinyl sheet that was primarily sold as a slush catcher with garden hoses inserted in slots around the ends to contain dripping road snow/salt so that you could sweep it out of your garage. It also caught the occasional drop of oil (naw!). However, they only last just so long in the elements until they get brittle and torn. Mine was not worth shipping in my last move from Illinois to here in Florida, but I wish I could find another. The other alternative is to seal the concrete floor, specially those of a newly constructed home. Seems to take years to draw out the moisture and better using another means than the frame of your Vette.

Stu Fox

[William B.]

Re: Cold storage

Yes, it does get wintry here in Alaska earlier than most places. Thanks for all the responses. I'm much more confident about storing my cars now.

[Anthony P.]

Re: Cold storage

For many years I put a number sheets of Bounce (dryer sheets), scattered in the engine compartment, trunk, and interior carpet (laid on paper towels). The scent keeps our rodents. This has worked for me even with cars stored outside (I am in the woods) just under a cover all winter (and no it was not a classic car I left out )

Tony

Donald,

Right you are, I hadn't thought about them. On another thread here, I heard that mice hate the smell of Irish Spring. I now have four bars in my garage. They also don't like mothballs.

Joe

[John D.]

Re: Cold storage

Ethanol gas does not store well at all you know.
The Bounce sheets are amazing. Cold storage sure does mess up the aluminum castings and cadmium plating though. Moisture on aluminum causes oxidation and therefore pitting. Good luck, JD

[Larry E.]

Re: Cold storage

FWIW:
If the floor is concrete I would put it in an OMNI Bag. I have used them
for years with great results. Car looks identical as when it was put in; no
surface rust. Google OMNI Bag and you can learn more about it.
Larry

[Duke W.]

Re: Cold storage

Change the oil before storage using a viscosity that is good for the coldest expected temperature. Test the antifreeze to make sure it the block won't freeze and crack during the coldest spells.

Joe

Oil viscosity should be selected based on the lowest anticipated COLD START TEMPERATURE. The coldest storage temperature is irrelevant.

Duke