I've been thinking of asking the list about this and now seems a good time.
My '84 Westy is currently my daily driver. I haven't sold the beater I was
driving previously --- and it has crossed my mind to take the van off the
road  for the winter and use the old car (actaully newer than the Westy
come to think of it). I'd be storing the van outside in Toronto's cold and
damp climate. Any comments on the pros and cons of this will be greatly
appreciated. I put about 200 miles a week on the Westy commuting.

Thanks,
Doug

From: Stuart MacMillan <stuart@COBALTGROUP.COM> on 08/09/99 03:37 PM

Please respond to Stuart MacMillan <stuart@COBALTGROUP.COM>

To:   vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
cc:
Client:
Subject:  Re: Winter Storage

Additions:

Remove the spark plugs and spray in WD-40, then replace the plugs. If
you really want to go the extra mile remove the rocker arms so all the
valves are closed to keep moisture from condensing in the cylinders and
rusting them.

Be sure your cover is well ventilated or it will trap moisture inside
and do more harm than good

If it stays below freezing all winter and the humidity is low you should
be fine.  If you have a lot of moisture like we do in Seattle definitely
use a small heater on a low setting to minimize condensation.

When you start it up in the spring, change the oil and spin the engine
without the plugs until you build up oil pressure, replace the plugs and
rockers and start it up.

Better yet, just drive it!

--
Stuart MacMillan
Manager, Case Program
800-909-8244 ext 208

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