Date: Tue, 30 Aug 2022 13:00:04 +0000
Reply-To: "ddbjorkman@verizon.net" <ddbjorkman@VERIZON.NET>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: "ddbjorkman@verizon.net" <ddbjorkman@VERIZON.NET>
Subject: Re: Vanagon storage
In-Reply-To: <66579D78-143B-44BD-A15B-B09DC3CFFF1D@comcast.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8
Excellent points Eric!!
Dan, you might find riding around in your Vanagon quite therapeutic. I know it makes me feel good, and maybe you could use some of that right now. The roar of the engine, the noise of the wind through worn door gaskets, the talk and laughter, it's all good. The additional benefit of using your beloved vehicle is a big plus also.
Hope your recovery is as quick as possible and complete.
Dave B.the Boston one
-----Original Message-----
From: Eric Caron <ericcaron96@COMCAST.NET>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Sent: Mon, Aug 29, 2022 9:42 pm
Subject: Re: [VANAGON] Vanagon storage
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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