Winter Storage

[Plod]

Hi everyone

I have just put my X type into dry storage until April. My query is two fold: firstly what do I need to take into account with it being stored for the next five months. It is in a very secure compound and is a 40 minute drive from my home and will have access to it.

Besides moving it from time to time to prevent the tyres from gaining flat spots and placing a dehumidifier (bought from Wilkos for the sum of £1) inside the cabin what else do I need to consider over the coming months.

Secondly, it is my intention to purchase a smart charger and don’t want to spend more than £50. Does anyone have any recommendations/preference or advice on which one to purchase. I will then be able to leave it on charge over the coming months.

Cheers Plod

[andypryce]

Hi, I use a ctek charger, works well. Overinflate the tyres by about 5 psi, I wouldn't worry about moving it to prevent flat spots, if it's a few months should be fine. Ideally storage should be in a dry place, though sometimes that's difficult.

[Astromorg]

Best practice in my opinion (!) is to change the engine oil then take the car for a good run to circulate the new oil and get the exhaust pipes really hot and therefore dry. Then store it and don't re-start the engine until it's time to come out of hibernation. Keep the handbrake off.
Over-inflate the tyres by up to 25%, but don't exceed the maximum pressure stated on the tyre wall
If you're a bit pernickety as I try to be, it would do more good than harm to change the brake fluid if it's more than a year old as it's going to absorb water while standing.
If you're going to roll the car for the tyres that would also be a good time to apply the brakes a few times to keep the rubber seals from sticking and pump the clutch a few times too if it's a manual gearbox
Rather than a battery charger, you would be best off with a battery conditioner. I've been pleased with my CTEK MXS 5.0, although with the smaller battery of the X type you would be OK with an MXS3.8 that would almost come inside your budget