Tech Talk - Ask Jason!
Green Mountain PCA Member Jason Eastman, mechanic and owner of Bullfrog Auto in Milton, Vermont, has graciously agreed to answer members’ questions about their Porsches in a club feature we call “Ask Jason,” appearing here in the Mountaineer and in the Tech Talk section of our
website
.
We last asked Jason, How do you store a Porsche for the winter? Hopefully his advice was heeded! Now, we have asked Jason for his tips for taking Porsches out of the garage, out of storage, out of Car Capsule bubbles and cranking them up.
JASON EASTMAN'S SPRINGTIME CHECKLIST
When it's time to pull a Porsche out of hibernation there are a few things that I do and check.
·
Connect and install the battery if removed from the car.
·
Remove any dryer sheets or steel wool from the intake of the engine and exhaust if any were placed for storage.
·
Check the engine oil and coolant levels to ensure they are at the proper levels.
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If both the engine oil and coolant levels are good, start the engine and allow it to stabilize; but back out outside quickly to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
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Once outside, allow the engine a couple of minutes to stabilize. It's not uncommon to hear a little more clatter, see a little more smoke from the tailpipe or run a little ragged on initial start up. These issues may occur because the engine oil typically bleeds off during extended periods of sitting. Additionally, oil can settle in the cylinders and contribute to a little extra smoke. All should dissipate quickly on its own or after a short drive.
·
With the car outside, check the storage space for any signs of fluid leaks. While the engine is idling remove any dryer sheets, moth balls or other forms of rodent deterrents from the car. Check for any signs of rodents that may have decided to take up residence in your Porsche.
·
Check the tire pressures and set them to the specified tire pressures found on the chassis.
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Check that the registration and insurance cards are in the car and are current.
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Check that the inspection sticker on the windshield is current.
Take the car out for a short drive (usually about 7-10 miles) to get the engine up to operating temperature. Listen for any odd noises, vibrations, etc. It's very common for tires to develop flat spots when sitting in one place for an extended time. The tires typically will smooth out once they warm sufficiently.
Return home and if all went well you're ready for the driving season.
Now is also a good time to wash and wax the car. Enjoy the season and the Porsche Club tours, once they resume!
Question: Jason, what safety steps have you had to take during the Covid-19 crisis, with social distancing, etc?
Jason:
I'm still open for customers to come in; however, I can't at this time allow people in the shop due to state regulations. My procedure is to have costumers call me to schedule service and then drop the car off on the scheduled day. Leave the key in the car. I'll come out and take it from there wearing a mask and gloves. The pickup procedure is much the same except in reverse. Payments are taken over the phone and receipts are emailed or mailed via snail mail.
(Editor's note: car repairs are considered an "essential" service.)
Any member with a question should email Communications Chair
Sandy Gilmou
r or
Webmeister Alessandro Iuppa
who will forward to Jason after which we will publish the answer(s). Likewise, if you would like to submit a an article on a technical subject regarding Porsches, email to Sandy and/or Al. It's a great opportunity to get -- or give -- some great advice.
