Hi, I have a Ferrari project car which I would like to store for the winter; problem is that right now it's in an unheated garage which has no access to electricity due to a renovation project that is on going and might need to carry on through the new year (2009). As such, any recommendations on how to make sure the car is ok? It's in the Boston area so it will get below freezing during the winter months. In the summer we almost had issues due to the high humidity, but in the end it was ok by having good airflow/ventilation. Any suggestions/comments? Thanks!
Call Paul at Silverstone Club (www.silverstoneclub.com). I was introduced to them by an F-chat member. They're going to be adding lifts and other goodies so that you'll be able to work in a heated area on your car over the winter. Best, John
If the car cannot be moved, you'll want to focus on stabilizing the fuel in the car with some Sta-Bil or Christy's DryGas. You'll only need a small amount, unless you'll be storing the car long-term. A battery tender with a low-voltage 'trickle charge' circuit that has auto shut-off should be all you need for an older car. Those two things should get you through the winter just fine. Winter is actually quite 'dry', until Spring-thaw, so most exposed metals will actually benefit from the reduced temps. If you intend to move the vehicle to somewhere you can work on it, well, most indoor/heated storage facilities like to cram as many vehicles into spots as possible, so there will be very-little 'space' around-which you can tinker during the snowy season. If you must work on the car this winter, and prefer some heated comfort, I'd find some friends with heated garages in your area who have some free space.....or think about space-heaters, or the acceleration of your renovations.
I heard Ferrari of New England just finished there brand new storage facility in Norwood. From what I've been told the building is climate controlled, which should solve both your winter and summer problems. Give Steve or Mike a call.
Cars regularly handle well below freezing. The 308 that was here easily handled -17F and i even drive her at those temps and she was 'stored' in the covered yet non-heated garage. Provided your car is properly maintained, just make sure there is the normal anti-freeze in the radiator and use Sta-Bil in the gas since you are not driving her. As for the battery, just remove it and put in within your warm home (should be disconnected anyway as when working on a car you should unhook the battery for safety). Note: if you do plan to drive the car in the winter, consider lighter weight oil like 0W-30 in the engine.
It's quite nice and getting better. We featured them in our latest newsletter (along with Park Place in Newport). They offered a special discounted rate for our network, but I'm sure they wouldn't mind if we extended it to folks on this list. If you're interested, drop me an email at [email protected] and I'll forward the newsletter to you. Best, John
I have 6 Ferrari's and 10 other vehicles stored this winter in a similar situation. Last year I put heavy plastic on the floor and sealed the garage. Last spring all was well and my Borranis needed nothing.
