[Mini] Storing a Mini

[Jeff Fenwick]

Hi Andy,
I had the impression I should always fill the tank to minimize the air above the petrol and avoid the condensation. I even used the “posh” Super brand that is said to have no added ethanol  But as Gernot said, it may be only good for BBQ starter by next year. 

Yes, the car is on 4 stands, and plugs back in loosely. Thanks for the good suggestions of other things I had not thought to do. Normally, I have no particular problems with 5 months off the road for winter but this time it will be closer to a year and a half. 

Cheer, Jeff

Andy H. wrote:

Hi Jeff,
            Here are some suggestions I have used to good effect:

- Best to drain the petrol, it does not keep well anyway if there is any in the tank over winter it will cause humidity to collect on the surfaces above the level of liquid which will cause rust on the inside of the tank, which will get sucked into the carb and gum up the ports etc. The tank will deteriorate as well and if this happens regularly it will cause pinhole petrol leaks.
- I'd put axle stands under each wheel and lift the tyres of the ground, thus protecting the tyres from having flat surfaces and vibrations, and also quickening tyre ageing due to stretching of the sidewalls for long periods.
- Lower tyre pressures (including spare) to keep them in good nick and slow ageing.
- Might be worth removing fuses to avoid any tarnishing between contacts and electrical oddities just when you don't want it!
- Allow air to flow through the car to stop any humidity spoiling all materials and leaving markings all over glass that can be hard to remove.
- Leave plugs screwed loosely into the head cylinder, stops dust and grit etc. falling in, and keeps threads clean.
- Give the screen seals a rubber protection treatment to stop them going hard and cracking/splitting etc.
- Lightly grease wheel nut threads.
- If using mechanical distributor points; open the points and insert clean thin card or plastic between the surfaces then let them close against it, keeps them good for the restart when needed (don't forget to remove it again when putting Mini back into service!)

Before using the Mini again, remove rear brake drums to check the the brake slave cylinders have not started leaking.

Enough to keep you busy for a while.

Bye...Andy in Norwich

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