I am writing this article a bit late. Its early January 2025 and a “polar express” is heading our way for Oklahoma. If you live in more northern latitudes you’ve probably already had a freeze or two.
This article presumes you are storing your vehicle in an enclosed garage or out-building that is not climate controlled, or perhaps even in an enclosed trailer. It does not assume you are storing your vehicle out in the elements. For obvious reasons, It is best to store your vehicle in an environment that is climate controlled.
As the racing season ends we want to spend some time dedicating some attention to preparing our production-based race car for storage and also review and protect our safety equipment. This year end “sanity check” helps to ensure a proper winterization protects vital components, ensures safety equipment remains compliant, and minimizes off-season deterioration. Below is a comprehensive guide tailored for production-based race cars, addressing key areas such as the cooling system, fuel system, battery, tires, brake system, rubber components, and safety equipment.
The Cooling System
If you are using any type of water based coolant or “water wetter” such as VP Racing Stay Frosty you will need to drain your coolant system and install a glycol based anti-freeze to your coolant system. “Water wetters” DO NOT provide freeze protection.
(You can view this content I developed that goes into more detail on the cooling of the racing engine. If you are doing any sort of competitive driving such as wheel-to-wheel racing or time trials we recommend taking some time to view this content).
A properly winterized cooling system prevents freezing and corrosion during storage:
- Drain and Replace Coolant: Flush the cooling system and refill it with fresh coolant mixed to the correct antifreeze ratio for your region’s winter temperatures. This ensures the coolant won’t freeze and damage the radiator or engine block.
- 1). Drain you coolant system and dispose of properly.
- 2). Fill with a glycol based anti-freeze appropriate for your car. (Spend some time researching which color anti-freeze is best for you car).
- 3). Run your engine for a bit to work the anti-freeze through your coolant system.
- 4). Check level and top off if needed.
- Inspect Hoses and Clamps: Check hoses for cracks, bulges, or signs of wear. Replace any damaged hoses, and ensure clamps are tight to prevent leaks.
- Add Corrosion Inhibitor: For added protection, use a coolant additive designed to prevent corrosion and extend the lifespan of internal components.
Fuel System Preparation for Winter
Storing does matter whether you have a standard production fuel tank or are using a fuel cell:
- Standard Production Fuel Tank: Fill the tank completely to minimize air space, which can lead to condensation and corrosion. Add a high-quality fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading. Run the engine for a few minutes to ensure the stabilizer circulates throughout the fuel system.
- Racing Fuel Cell: If equipped with a fuel cell, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for storage. Most recommend draining the cell completely to prevent fuel degradation and reduce the risk of liner deterioration. Inspect the bladder for cracks, wear, or delamination, and replace it if needed.
- Inspect Fuel Lines: Check all fuel lines for cracks, brittleness, or leaks. Replace any damaged lines and ensure all connections are secure.
Storing the Battery
Batteries require careful attention to ensure they remain functional during storage:
- Disconnect and Remove: Disconnect the battery and remove it from the car to prevent parasitic drain.
- Clean and Protect Terminals: Clean the terminals with a baking soda and water solution, then apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.
- Use a Battery Maintainer: Store the battery on a trickle charger or maintainer designed for high-performance batteries. This keeps it charged without overcharging.
- Check the Battery’s Condition: Test the battery voltage and inspect it for swelling or leaks. Replace it if any issues are detected.
Managing R-Compound Racing Tires
R-compound racing tires are a significant investment and require proper storage to maintain their performance characteristics:
- Clean and Inspect: Wash the tires to remove any debris, rubber pickup, or chemicals that can degrade the compound. Inspect for cuts, punctures, or uneven wear.
- Inflate and Store: Inflate the tires to the manufacturer’s recommended storage pressure. Store them in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and chemicals.
- Tire Savers or Stands: Use tire savers or stands to prevent flat spots, especially if the car will remain stationary for an extended period.
- Avoid Freezing Temperatures: R-comp tires can become brittle and crack in freezing conditions. Ensure the storage area remains above freezing.
Checking the Brake System
A thorough inspection of the brake system helps prevent issues during the off-season:
Check out this video I did on inspecting brake rotors during the racing season.
- Inspect Pads and Rotors: Check brake pads for wear and replace them if they are near their minimum thickness. Inspect rotors for cracks, grooves, or warping.
- Bleed the Brakes: Flush old brake fluid and replace it with fresh fluid. This removes moisture and prevents corrosion in the brake lines and calipers.
- Check Brake Lines: Inspect all brake lines for cracks, leaks, or signs of wear. Replace any damaged lines.
- Parking Brake: If your car has a parking brake, avoid engaging it during storage to prevent it from seizing. Use wheel chocks instead.
Fully Inspect the Vehicle
Rubber components are susceptible to wear, cracking, and deterioration over time:
- Belts and Hoses: Check all belts and hoses for cracks, fraying, or stiffness. Replace any that show signs of aging.
- Suspension Bushings: Inspect suspension bushings for cracks, tears, or excessive play. Worn bushings can negatively affect handling and alignment.
- Seals and Gaskets: Look for leaks around seals and gaskets. Replace any that show signs of wear or damage.
- Tire Sidewalls: Examine tire sidewalls for cracking or dry rot, even if the tread appears intact.
You’ll want to inspect again in the spring as you prepare for your first event, so maybe keep a logbook of any issues you detect now, then fix in the spring.
Checking SFI Tags on Safety Equipment
Safety equipment must comply with regulations, and SFI certification tags have expiration dates:
- Harnesses: Inspect harnesses for fraying, cuts, or worn stitching. Check the SFI certification tag to ensure it hasn’t expired. Replace any harnesses that are damaged or out of compliance.
- Seats and Mounts: Inspect seats and mounting hardware for cracks, loose bolts, or structural damage. Ensure the seat meets current safety standards.
- Fire Suppression System: Verify the fire suppression system is fully charged and operational. Check the certification date and service it if required.
- Storing of Racing Helmet: Take this time to inspect the SFI tag on your helmet. Its also recommended to keep the box your helmet came with and store it in this box in a room or closet inside the home. Avoiding extreme heat and cold will help your helmet last. The adhesive holding the padding to the helmet shell can break down and cause the padding to become loose.
- Inspect Other Safety Equipment: Inspect your gloves, suit, shoes and other safety gear for wear and compliance with current regulations. Replace any items that are expired or damaged. Nomex socks get missed. Inspect for any loose SFI tags. You’ll fail Tech in the spring if you have any loose SFI tags.
General Storage Tips
Creating the right storage environment ensures your race car remains in top condition:
- Climate Control: If possible, store the car in a climate-controlled space to protect it from temperature and humidity extremes.
- Cover the Car: Use a breathable, high-quality car cover to protect the paint and interior from dust and moisture.
- Rodent Prevention: Place traps or deterrents around the storage area to keep rodents from chewing wires or nesting in the car.
- Ventilation: Crack the windows slightly to allow airflow and prevent mildew.
- Periodic Checkups: Inspect the car periodically during storage to address any developing issues.
Final Thoughts
Winter storage is an integral part of maintaining a production-based race car. By taking the time to prepare the cooling system, fuel system, battery, tires, brake system, rubber components, and safety equipment, you can ensure your car is ready for the next racing season. With these steps, your car will remain in excellent condition and ready to hit the track as soon as the green flag waves in spring.
Lastly … Be Safe, Go Fast and Have Fun!
***
Call To Grid was created to serve the grassroots racer! We offer only the most premier brands for the driver, car, and shop to help keep you safe, looking good and on the podium! We develop original content to help you and the car find speed! We know why you race; it’s the desire, discipline and determination required to do something well. It’s the camaraderie you experience at the track with people who share this passion of motorsports! Join us at Call to Grid to join the community of passionate drivers like yourself today!
