1973 Vette

[JoeGKB]

I have a 73 Vette and I put into storage for the winter, now that the winter is almost over, I was wondering if there is any special I need to do before taking it out of storage and driving it?

[SwaveDave]

Originally Posted by JoeGKB

I have a 73 Vette and I put into storage for the winter, now that the winter is almost over, I was wondering if there is any special I need to do before taking it out of storage and driving it?

RESPONSE:

I do the same thing each winter here in Northern Illinois. If you didnt change the oil just before putting it into storage, you need to do that once you get the engine nice and hot. But before starting it..i would check ALL of the fluids including the tire pressures. What i like to do before cranking the motor...is put my oil heater dipstick in and let it get the oil good and warm...but, this is optional. I also check the battery connections to make sure they are clean and tight. Before i start it up, I move the 4 speed back and forth a few times gently as well as depress the clutch pedal a few times. Then, with the 4 speed in nuetral, i give it exactly 3 full pumps of gas and turn the key. If it starts right away which it usually does...i let it idle as low as possible without it stalling ( the carb i have is chokeless so i have to keep my foot on the gas pedal for maybe 30-60 seconds then i can release it and it will hold at a low idle of about 700 rpms). I let it warm up for about 5 minutes while checking under the hood for leaks, noises, etc.. If all is fine, ill slowly back it out of the garage. Then, i go for a ride to get it good and warm but i dont exceed 2000 rpms for the first mile. Then, i gradually increase the rpms and shift gently till the car is fully warmed up. I take it for about a 30 minute run. When i get it back home, i pop the hood with the motor going, and look around for leaks , noises, etc...I also take a peek under the car to see if all is okay.

Note: If the motor doesnt fire up after cranking it for the first time after storage...i shut it off , get the starting fluid, and spray a quick shot into the primary venturi of the carb...then immediately try to start it again. Its always started right up after doing this.

This might sound a bit anal to you...but, its a set procedure i go thru when i take it out of storage. I also give it a good bath and usually wax it afterward.

I try to take it for a good spin at least 4-6 times per winter providing the roads are clear and it isnt excessively cold out, in order to get everything working and moving freely ; i think this is important versus not driving it for months on end.

Dave