Aitch Posted October 12, 2021 Report Share Posted October 12, 2021 I am recovering from a Hip replacement operation, but in January I am scheduled for a knee replacement so I will be out of action for a while. In this case, I am going to lay up my Spitfire. I can’t see anything being done until April next year at least. I have already put the car on axle stands, all wheels turn by hand so there is no binding from the brakes and the battery has been removed. The handbrake is off; car is in neutral. There is no coolant in the radiator, but should I drain the water from the engine block? Also, should I put a drop of oil in via the sparkplug hole? Engine Oil, 3-in-one? The car is kept at the side of the house (I don’t have a garage), but the hood will be up and the car is covered by a good tie-down quality breathable cover. In this weather I suppose it’s not much of a problem but with ‘Brass Monkey’ temps, throughout the winter, should I consider putting a blanket etc. over the engine? Spray WD40 over the electrics? I can’t drain the petrol tank so should an additive be used? If so, Which? I think I’ve covered most things with a common sense approach, but you never know! Any other obvious things that need to be done. Thanks, Aitch Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pete Lewis Posted October 12, 2021 Report Share Posted October 12, 2021 i would keep an antifreeze in the inhibitors keep things clean , old exposed radiator and block will deposit accumulated nasties and you get more troubles spoon full of engine oil is a fair idea turn engine over to spread it on the bores oily rag to plug up the air intake so no damp air gets to the bores with open valves no cloths over engines they harbour damp you just need plenty of clear ventilation dont worry about petrol I have just recomissioned a nice Mk2 and its stood unused for for 3 years . it started on the button but why not just fire it up once a week ??? Pete Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Clive Posted October 12, 2021 Report Share Posted October 12, 2021 I would put a squirt of engine oil down each bore and turn tvfvrnginevover periodically, best to pop the plugs out so it is easy. Fuel, there are some stabilisers out there no experience but probably wise. Millers do one. My main worry is he carbs and gunge. And i see Pete has also replied... yes, antifreeze a good idea. As is turning her water pump as gbet do mot like being inactive Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
trigolf Posted October 12, 2021 Report Share Posted October 12, 2021 If it was me, I would wedge the clutch pedal down too. Not sure about Spit, but my Vitesse clutch siezes if left unwedged or not used regularly over winter. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Badwolf Posted October 13, 2021 Report Share Posted October 13, 2021 +1 for the clutch pedal. Cut a length of timber and wedge between the pedal and the raised floor in front of the drivers seat. Mine (Spitfire), was solid after layup and nothing I could do would free it off. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PeteH Posted October 13, 2021 Report Share Posted October 13, 2021 One issue with hydraulic clutches, is that over time they will "creep" back. I`d be inclined to try and wedge the operating arm "open". Pete Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Aitch Posted October 14, 2021 Author Report Share Posted October 14, 2021 Good plentiful tips, Many thanks Aitch Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now