I am aware that there are guides out there regarding winter storage of our
LBC's, but I'm not sure if I'm in a unique situation or not. This will be my
first winter with my Midget, and I want to make sure I take good care of her.
First of all, I live in CT, and it has been getting cold, so I have not been
driving her much at all. For the past few weeks, I've taken her for a spin
once a week. Except for the last time, she started up on the first try, and
has driven as good as any other time. The car had a new battery installed in
August, and that was the last time the oil was changed.
The gasket on the valve cover is shot, and is clearly leaking oil. I have the
gasket, but no torque wrench. I do not want to tighten it too hard. Plus, I
am afraid the throttle cord will snap since it goes right over the valve
cover. I know that for a couple bucks my mechanic will do it right, with no
hassle.
My garage is nothing to brag about. It's been standing since 1940, and has no
electricity. A loft covers half the front end, so I can't fully open the
hood; with no light in there, it wouldn't matter anyways. At this point, all
I'm making sure of is that the car sits with a full tank of gas.
Obviously, once the snow starts falling, I will stop taking the car out.
Given my limitations, what should I do with the car-anything? In the very
least, I'd like to start her up for a while once every weekend. MG World says
to keep the hood and trunk open to allow for air passage. I can't do that
with the trunk, since the light would drain the battery. Also, they recommend
having the top up, but not latched. Should I do this?
I realize I don't have the perfect home for my car, but it's all I've got.
And no, before you ask, I do not have a cover, and yes, I am noticing some
dust accumulation.
So list, let's hear what you have to say to this mechanically simple man....
Tom
78 Midget
Drafty garage, no electricity, no cover, no tools, 400 yards from Long Island
Sound.
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