Self Storage Options For Vehicles

Deciding whether you should store your vehicle indoors or outdoors depends on your region’s weather pattern. If you live in an area with mild weather, your vehicle should fare well outdoors with the proper covers and security measures. However, indoor storage is the answer if your area experiences long, harsh winters or summers and is at high risk of tornadoes or hurricanes. All these factors can damage even well-covered vehicles kept outside.

Tip: For winter storage, use an inside storage space that is dark and dry. Be careful not to over-inflate your tires during the summer because hot air expands, which will cause them to burst.More ››

How to Prep Your Classic Car for Self Storage

There are many steps to take when storing a car, especially a vintage car. But before you store that 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback, you should speak to a mechanic who specializes in vintage car maintenance to learn how to best store your baby for the winter.

Here are a few general tips for storing a classic car at a self storage facility:

• Fill the gas tank and add a stabilizer to prevent rusting and damage to the fuel system.
• Change the oil to prevent thickening of dirty oil over time.
• Put tire jacks under the tires to prevent weight damage and flat spots.
• Clean the car inside and out to avoid rusting and permanent paint damage.
• Use a car cover to prevent dirt and fading.
• Disconnect the battery to avoid acid leakage and corrosion.

Storing Your Motorcycle

Unless you live in an area with a moderate climate, you will need to store your motorcycle for the winter when the weather is not suitable for riding. To keep your bike in top shape for your first spring ride, consider these self storage tips:

• Perform an oil and filter change prior to self storage.
• Change brake and hydraulic clutch fluids and make sure your coolant is fresh as well.
• Prepare your engine’s fuel delivery systems for inactivity; follow your manufacturer instructions for specific details about your engine type.
• Clean your battery leads and attach a battery tender to keep it charged and ready.
• Wash and dry the exterior and apply wax to the paint surfaces, chrome polish to chrome surfaces.
• Cover with a light sheet or bike cloth to keep off dust, or if storing outside use a specially designed breathable bike cover to protect from UV and weather damage.
• Use your center stand to keep your motorcycle upright, or if you do not have a stand, prop your bike up using blocks.
• Inflate tires to maximum pressure, if the ground is in danger of freezing try to keep the tires propped using wood blocks.