Keeping our cars on the road
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Keeping our cars on the road *
With a goal to broaden the appeal of this wonderful Crosley car, this “Tech Tip” column will begin with “Why buy a Crosley?” followed by “Tips for Winterizing your Crosley” with future detailed categories of Tech Tips. The goal is to be clear and very practical. Plus, we hope you might find these tips valuable and add them to your own personal collection of workable “tech tips”. We don’t claim to be “experts” just interested in providing some guidance and answers to keep our cars running. We do look forward to your suggestions. - Ed
Why buy a Crosley and why a Crosley is a great car to own
Affordable entry and Standout value – Running Crosleys can often be found for $4,000 to $5,000, making them an accessible first classic car. You’ll turn heads at shows without needing a big-budget!
Great for teaching and Learning – A perfect project car to help beginners and even kids learn how engines and classic vehicles work.
Parts availability – Most drivetrain and engine components are still available through Crosley vendors. Trim and specialty parts can be found with some searching.
Head-turner – Whether it’s a car show, cruise night, parade, or a local event, you’re guaranteed to be the center of attention.
Personal memories – Many people have a family connection or a childhood memory involving a Crosley. There are even some stories about buying a Crosley as a “post-celebration” experience.
Story magnet – At every event, someone will have a fond memory or story to share about a Crosley in their past.
American innovation – Crosleys represent a unique era in post-war U.S. automotive history. From radios and refrigerators to pioneering compact cars, the Crosley story is one of creativity and bold ideas.
Easy to store – You can fit three Crosleys in the space of one standard garage or even two in a single bay!
Tips for Winterizing your Crosley
Clean and Protect
Wash and wax the exterior, including the undercarriage.
Vacuum the interior and remove food, papers, and trash.
Wipe down and condition vinyl, rubber, and leather surfaces.
Place Irish Spring soap bars or dryer sheets inside to deter rodents (bonus: fresh spring scent).
Tires and Suspension
Inflate tires to 35 psi to help prevent flat spots.
Use tire cradles or jack stands if storing long term.
Place wheel chocks—never set the parking brake (it can seize).
Fuel and Engine
Fill the gas tank. Add fuel stabilizer, Marvel Mystery Oil, or Dry Gas. It is not necessary to run the tank dry before storage. A full, stabilized tank helps prevent rust and moisture buildup.
Before warming up engine, check antifreeze to make sure it is good for sub-zero temperatures (An antifreeze tester is about $5.00).
Take a 10-minute drive so the mixture circulates through the carburetor.
Warm the engine and change the oil and filter.
After the engine is cool, top off coolant, brake, and transmission fluids.
(Optional) Spray fogging oil or Marvel Mystery Oil into cylinders through spark plug holes to protect rings. (2-3 squirts/cylinder). It may smoke when you first start it in the spring, but it will clear up.
Battery and Electrical
Disconnect or remove the battery. This reduces rodent damage and risk to wiring.
Check water levels in serviceable batteries.
Or, connect the battery to a smart trickle charger.
Body and Interior Protection
Lift wiper arms off the windshield or insert spacers.
Place moisture absorbers or baking soda in the cabin.
Rodent Prevention
Use dryer sheets, peppermint oil, or traps around the storage area. (In the spring your car will smell “lemony fresh”.)
If possible, seal garage openings to limit potential rodent access.
Storage Environment
Lay a vapor barrier or tarp under the car.
Use a breathable fabric car cover (avoid plastic tarps).
Store in a dry, cool garage with good airflow.
Periodic Check-Ins (Every 30–60 Days)
Inspect for leaks, rodents, or moisture.
Verify tire pressure.
Check battery charge/trickle charger.
Pump brakes lightly to keep seals flexible.
Some owners prefer to start and run the car briefly but opinions vary.
