i live in kansas,it gets cold and snowy during the winter :rant: my car sits in a garage(non heated) and i try to drive it twice a week. weather permitting. is it better to let it sit till i can take it out,or can i start it and let it run for a few minutes? engine is a 430 w/ aluminum heads.any recommendations?? fuel stabilizer maybe? o No: is it drivable with stabilized in the gas? o No:
Running the car for just a few minutes, unfortunately, will only build up the stuff in the exhaust that will rot it out. You would probably be better off parking the car on a sheet of thick plastic to help keep the moisture away from the underside and place a 60-75 watt light bulb under there for a little bit of heat. Then when you have the opportunity, take it out for 15-20 minutes and "stretch it's legs". Fuel stabilizer is also a very good idea. Today's fuels are only good for 3-4 months at best. I try and take my car out in the winter whenever the road conditions permit it. It's great to see the look on some of the people's faces when I come cruising down the street in my nice, clean car rumbling on by them.
Do not start your car for a "few minutes" while in storage. You will create a lot of condensation leading to exhust rusting quickly. Best to store... and leave it alone till spring. Driving in "good weather" is also not a good idea. Roads may look clean but if they use salt where you are you will pick up salt dust. Add that to condensation and rust will form over time. My opinion anyway.
