well, i'm leaving for basic training on Tuesday, and I'm gonna be away from the car for a long time about 8-9 months. what should i do with the car, i'm not really worried about the tires since their already gone, and get new ones when i get back. i put fresh oil and filter in, new fuel filters did a diesel purge sprayed wd on lots of rubber parts, new return lines, fixed any leaks so no water gets in the car, cleaned the inside, now i hear mixed things to do with the fuel tank, leave it full or empty and additives to put in. also another big issue is i live in Massachusetts and it's gonna be out in the winter. i have no garage or anything, so possibly a car cover. also its an 84 300d. any suggestions would be helpful.
long time storage
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Purchase a battery maintainer on it like this:
Amazon.com: Battery Tender 021-0128 Battery Tender Plus 12V Battery Charger: Automotive: Reviews, Prices & more
It's cheaper than a new battery.
If you have someone you trust, have them start it up once a month or so and either run the engine where is sits up to operating temp (so the thermostat opens), or take it for a short drive until it warms up. This will stir up the oil and coolant.
And God speed with your military service.
Amazon.com: Battery Tender 021-0128 Battery Tender Plus 12V Battery Charger: Automotive: Reviews, Prices & more
It's cheaper than a new battery.
If you have someone you trust, have them start it up once a month or so and either run the engine where is sits up to operating temp (so the thermostat opens), or take it for a short drive until it warms up. This will stir up the oil and coolant.
And God speed with your military service.
Daily Driver '05 C320 4Matic 85K. For Sale '87 300SDL 215K Sold: '01 CLK430 70K / '85 300TD 280K+
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Hey Chrisgol I'd suggest a half tank so if the car ends up not being started for 9 months you can fill it with half new fuel when you get back and it will mix. Other than that depending on what part of Mass you live in I'm sure there are plenty of us here on the forum who could keep an eye on your car while your off serving our country.
This would work if the car was kept at a warm temperature. If the vehicle is stored where the temp will go below the dew point (ie stored outside) without a full tank, moisture will condense on the tank walls that are not covered by the fuel, and in a while you have a water problem. It's better to fill the tank all the way up and put in some diesel fuel preservative.
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