---
title: Should I Fog My BluePrint Engine Before Winter Storage?
description: Learn how to properly prepare your BluePrint engine for winter storage, including fogging, fuel stabilization, battery care, and corrosion protection.
---

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# Should I Fog My BluePrint Engine Before Winter Storage?

## If your BluePrint-powered vehicle will be stored for several months during the off-season, fogging the engine is a simple way to help protect internal engine components from rust and corrosion. This is especially important in humid environments or when a vehicle will remain unused throughout the winter.

### ***What Is Engine Fogging?***

**Engine fogging is the process of coating internal engine components with a protective oil film before storage.** Fogging oil is introduced through the air intake while the engine is running, allowing the oil to coat:

- Intake valves
- Valve guides
- Cylinder walls
- Piston rings
- Combustion chambers

This protective coating helps reduce the risk of surface rust forming while the engine sits unused.

### ***Should I Fog My BluePrint Engine?***

**Yes.** If your vehicle will be stored for more than a few months, BluePrint Engines recommends taking steps to protect the engine during storage. Fogging is especially beneficial for:

- Classic cars stored during winter
- Race vehicles parked between seasons
- Hot rods and muscle cars driven occasionally
- Marine applications
- Vehicles stored in humid climates

### ***How Do I Fog My Engine Before Storage?***

Follow the instructions provided by the fogging oil manufacturer. In general:

1. Bring the engine to normal operating temperature.
2. Allow the engine to idle.
3. Slowly introduce fogging oil through the throttle body, carburetor, or designated intake location per the product instructions.
4. Continue applying until the engine begins to smoke noticeably.
5. Shut the engine off.
6. For extended storage, remove spark plugs and apply a small amount of fogging oil directly into each cylinder if recommended by the product manufacturer.
7. Reinstall spark plugs.

**Important:** Always follow the fogging oil manufacturer's directions for your specific product and engine combination. What Else Should I Do Before Winter Storage? Fogging is only one part of proper storage preparation. Before storing your vehicle:

### Change the Engine Oil

**Fresh oil is recommended before long-term storage.** Used oil contains contaminants and combustion byproducts that can remain in contact with engine components during storage.

### Verify Coolant Protection

 Make sure the cooling system contains the correct antifreeze mixture for your climate. Check:

- Freeze protection level
- Coolant condition
- Coolant concentration

### Stabilize the Fuel System

**Add a fuel stabilizer to gasoline that will remain in the tank during storage.** After adding stabilizer:

1. Fill the fuel tank if appropriate for your application.
2. Start the engine.
3. Run the engine long enough for treated fuel to circulate throughout the fuel system.

### Maintain the Battery

 To help prevent battery discharge:

- Disconnect the battery, or
- Connect a quality battery maintainer

### Protect the Exterior

 Consider:

- Cleaning the vehicle thoroughly
- Covering air intake openings if appropriate
- Protecting polished aluminum and chrome surfaces
- Using a breathable vehicle cover

 How Long Can an Engine Sit Without Fogging? The risk depends on:

- Humidity levels
- Temperature fluctuations
- Storage conditions
- Length of storage

 An engine stored in a climate-controlled, dry environment may experience minimal corrosion concerns. However, fogging provides additional protection and is often considered inexpensive insurance during long-term storage. When Should I Start the Engine Again? When returning the vehicle to service:

- Inspect fluid levels
- Check battery condition
- Inspect belts and hoses
- Verify fuel quality
- Check for leaks
- Follow normal startup procedures

 Some smoke during initial startup may be normal if fogging oil was used before storage. 

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