Thank you all for your suggestions. I am doing better now, some pain
(sometimes) but moving around with a walker. I miss driving my van.. :-(

dan

On Sat, Aug 13, 2022 at 1:44 PM John Rodgers <jrodgers113@gmail.com> wrote:

> There are a number of things here to protect the vehicle.
>
> As suggested fill the fuel tank and add a fuel stabilizer. Gas that sits a
> l;ong time thends tro oproduces a type of varnish that clogs things and is
> hard to clean up/out.
> Disconnect the battery when vehicle is not in use. Even as little
> voltage draw as the clock can kill the battery over time. If there is
> even the slightest voltage leak anywhere that will kill the battery. Might
> even be better to remove the battery and store it on a board. The slightest
> electrolyte film on the surface of the battery is enough to provide a
> circuit for voltage drainage, thus the board to insulate it.
>
> Run the engine to full heat periodically. There are two reasons. Oiled
> surfaces, galleries and lifters need to be kept filled to prevent rust and
> corrosion. The second reason is the seals need to be kept lubricated so
> they don't dry out. There will be some condensation as the engine cools but
> if the engine is brought to temperature and kept there for a little while
> the moisture will evaporate.
>
> Anything that moves in the van be sure and move it periodically. Pump the
> brakes, move the heat/air  controls, run the windows up and down, Operate
> the wipers, run front and rear blowers.Motors when allowed to just sit are
> notorious for developing an oxide on the commutators and then not running.
> Work the parking brake handle.
>
> If possible get someone to drive it around the block for you at least. GOOD
> FOR THE TIRES.
>
> The worst thing you can do for any vehicle is to let it go idle, and not be
> used.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> On Sat, Aug 13, 2022 at 2:58 PM David Boan <dboan@outlook.com> wrote:
>
> > A few thoughts about storage (after storing mine for a winter) ...
> >
> > Just starting the engine, letting it warm up, and then turning it off can
> > be harmful as it causes oil dilution by fuel and moisture.  An article in
> > Popular Mechanics says if you are going to start it then do at least a
> > 30-mile drive at least every 60 days.
> >
> > Other considerations ...
> >
> > Wash and wax it.
> > If storing outside, get a cover.
> > Top off the gas tank and either add fuel stabilizer and/or use
> non-ethanol
> > gas.
> > Change the oil.
> > Attach a battery manager.
> > Do not set the parking brake.
> > Cover areas where critters may be able to enter the van.
> > Are you parking in a garage? If outdoors, consider a moisture barrier
> > under the van and pads under the tires. If on concrete, some people put
> > plastic over the concrete, mainly in humid climates.
> > Put rags under the wiper blades to keep them from sticking.
> > Lubricate hinges, locks, and other small moving parts.
> >
> > Just my $.02. 😉
> >
> > Dave B
> > Boise
> > ________________________________
> > From: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com> on behalf of Dan
> N
> > <dn92610@GMAIL.COM>
> > Sent: Saturday, August 13, 2022 1:37 PM
> > To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
> > Subject: Vanagon storage
> >
> > Hi all,
> >
> > Recently I broke my right leg during a fall... so I can't drive. The Dr.
> > says partial healing is about 6 months and full healing is about 12
> months,
> > he will tell me when I can drive. For a van that can not be driven for
> some
> > time here are some opinions I got.
> >
> > 1. Do not start the van until you are able to drive it.
> > 2. Start the van once a week and let it idle for 10 to 15 mn.
> > 3. Only start the van if you can drive for about 20 miles so there will
> be
> > no condensation in the engine. Otherwise just leave it alone.
> >
> > So... according to you.. what should I do?
> >
> > Thank you for your help.
> >
> > dan
> >
>