I just found out today that there's about a 90% chance that I'll be going someplace "hot and sandy" for the next 12-18 months. While I was making my "to do before going list", one of the things that came to mind was properly storing my 04 SLK320 so I'd be able to put the top down & go for a long ride as the tenth or so thing on my "to do when I get home list"

So I was wondering if anyone could make any suggestions as to the best steps to take to keep the car in hibernation for that long? During this time, it will be kept in a relatively new, well insulated garage. I was thinging about getting a Covercraft "Form-Fit" cover for it anyway for use during the winter months. Sounds like I may get significantly more use out of it now...

I once had to store a Lexus for about six months, and I didn't do anything special with it except start it up every once in a while. It seemed to be none the worse for wear (though I did trade it not too long after I got it out of storage, so who knows).

Of course, I'm still hoping that the "10% don't have to go" factor kicks in, but I'm not holding my breath.

Any tips would be appreciated.

 

Fill tires to maximum pressure (appx. 50psi or so) Disconnecting battery would be recommended or better yet installing a trickle charger and be sure to have the oil changed just prior to storeage. (Cheap insurance) Also be sure gas tank is full and adding a stabilzer would be a good Idea. I also recommend blocking the air inlet with something (a rag or such) to keep critters from building a home in the air filter box. (Don't forget to remove prior to start up!)
Hope you have a safe trip. Sincerely, ---Larry---

 

One thing I'd add to Larry's fine list is to also plug the exhaust outlet(s) for the same reason as the air intake.

Going back to something you said, it's not a good idea to just start a car that's in storage. If you don't warm it up to operating temperature and then run it for 20 minutes or so on the highway, corrosives and water will build up in the engine. It's better to let it sit if it can't be driven.

 

Oh! And good luck kicking sand in their faces. Stay safe.

 

Thanks to everyone for the advice and kind words. I have some time before I depart if it goes that way (looking more like it all the time), so I'll make sure to set some time aside to get the SLK into "hibernation".

Thanks again...if I end up not going I'll let you know!