Date: Mon, 29 Aug 2022 21:42:11 -0400
Reply-To: Eric Caron <ericcaron96@COMCAST.NET>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Eric Caron <ericcaron96@COMCAST.NET>
Subject: Re: Vanagon storage
In-Reply-To: <CAFdLW6mOXiM1qW6hSw+wpVNU_3B5LFDzVnL-fJ8TqfpBBzm4ww@mail.gmail.com>
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Hi Dan,
I have a different perspective on your situation. Sorry for the late reply but I was traveling.
My suggestion is to not store the van. Your correct you can’t drive it yourself or, comfortably drive it, but I suspect you can still get into the back or passenger seat.
I love using my vanagon but can’t drive it. I have my Wife drive, but also a variety of friends. Some friends have been found because I need a driver.
So as a blind vanagon person I suggest you find people to go to get lunch out, or go to get ice cream, or just go for a ride. It keeps the van happy and you as well.
Several times I’ve met people who never let their wives or others drive their vanagons. I think it is important to share the fun.
On my recent trip we were all couples over 7 vanagons and some others as well. In all cases the ladies also drove unless disabled like myself.
Don’t let this situation take away your vanagon joy!
Eric Caron
> On Aug 14, 2022, at 12:37 AM, Dan N <dn92610@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> Thank you all for your suggestions. I am doing better now, some pain
> (sometimes) but moving around with a walker. I miss driving my van.. :-(
>
> dan
>
> On Sat, Aug 13, 2022 at 1:44 PM John Rodgers <jrodgers113@gmail.com> wrote:
>
>> There are a number of things here to protect the vehicle.
>>
>> As suggested fill the fuel tank and add a fuel stabilizer. Gas that sits a
>> l;ong time thends tro oproduces a type of varnish that clogs things and is
>> hard to clean up/out.
>> Disconnect the battery when vehicle is not in use. Even as little
>> voltage draw as the clock can kill the battery over time. If there is
>> even the slightest voltage leak anywhere that will kill the battery. Might
>> even be better to remove the battery and store it on a board. The slightest
>> electrolyte film on the surface of the battery is enough to provide a
>> circuit for voltage drainage, thus the board to insulate it.
>>
>> Run the engine to full heat periodically. There are two reasons. Oiled
>> surfaces, galleries and lifters need to be kept filled to prevent rust and
>> corrosion. The second reason is the seals need to be kept lubricated so
>> they don't dry out. There will be some condensation as the engine cools but
>> if the engine is brought to temperature and kept there for a little while
>> the moisture will evaporate.
>>
>> Anything that moves in the van be sure and move it periodically. Pump the
>> brakes, move the heat/air controls, run the windows up and down, Operate
>> the wipers, run front and rear blowers.Motors when allowed to just sit are
>> notorious for developing an oxide on the commutators and then not running.
>> Work the parking brake handle.
>>
>> If possible get someone to drive it around the block for you at least. GOOD
>> FOR THE TIRES.
>>
>> The worst thing you can do for any vehicle is to let it go idle, and not be
>> used.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On Sat, Aug 13, 2022 at 2:58 PM David Boan <dboan@outlook.com> wrote:
>>
>>> A few thoughts about storage (after storing mine for a winter) ...
>>>
>>> Just starting the engine, letting it warm up, and then turning it off can
>>> be harmful as it causes oil dilution by fuel and moisture. An article in
>>> Popular Mechanics says if you are going to start it then do at least a
>>> 30-mile drive at least every 60 days.
>>>
>>> Other considerations ...
>>>
>>> Wash and wax it.
>>> If storing outside, get a cover.
>>> Top off the gas tank and either add fuel stabilizer and/or use
>> non-ethanol
>>> gas.
>>> Change the oil.
>>> Attach a battery manager.
>>> Do not set the parking brake.
>>> Cover areas where critters may be able to enter the van.
>>> Are you parking in a garage? If outdoors, consider a moisture barrier
>>> under the van and pads under the tires. If on concrete, some people put
>>> plastic over the concrete, mainly in humid climates.
>>> Put rags under the wiper blades to keep them from sticking.
>>> Lubricate hinges, locks, and other small moving parts.
>>>
>>> Just my $.02. 😉
>>>
>>> Dave B
>>> Boise
>>> ________________________________
>>> From: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com> on behalf of Dan
>> N
>>> <dn92610@GMAIL.COM>
>>> Sent: Saturday, August 13, 2022 1:37 PM
>>> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
>>> Subject: Vanagon storage
>>>
>>> Hi all,
>>>
>>> Recently I broke my right leg during a fall... so I can't drive. The Dr.
>>> says partial healing is about 6 months and full healing is about 12
>> months,
>>> he will tell me when I can drive. For a van that can not be driven for
>> some
>>> time here are some opinions I got.
>>>
>>> 1. Do not start the van until you are able to drive it.
>>> 2. Start the van once a week and let it idle for 10 to 15 mn.
>>> 3. Only start the van if you can drive for about 20 miles so there will
>> be
>>> no condensation in the engine. Otherwise just leave it alone.
>>>
>>> So... according to you.. what should I do?
>>>
>>> Thank you for your help.
>>>
>>> dan
>>>
>>
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