slomojoe wrote:
Hi all, I am new to the forum, recent buyer of a used GT200, after 30 years or so of badly wanting to get a Vespa (grew up in Italy, and always envied my friends with one!). Anyway, this thread is exactly what I need, so I figured it's time I stop lurking and jump in.
Since I live in upstate NY, I think I'll have to store my scoot for the winter for at least 4 months. Currently it resides in my garage, but when the snow comes there is no way it can take the place of my car, which obviously I don't want to dig out of a fresh foot or two of powder (or worse) every couple of weeks before going to work.
My easiest storage option for the winter is a non-heated, but weather-protected shed, with an electric socket I could use for a trickle charger. Would this be OK, with temperatures going regularly around 0-10F, and occasionally in the negative teens or twenties? Obviously, I'd drain the tank and maybe do an oil change right before storage. I don't want to have to drain all the fluids or anything like that, it'd be too much work, but I figure that should not be necessary.
Suggestions appreciated! Thanks.
Welcome slomojoe. I'm sure you will enjoy your scooter and hope you enjoy the forum. Be sure to learn how to use the search function and check out the wiki. There are many here who can answer any questions you may have. Plus it's just plain fun.
I would seriously recommend that you be careful when selecting a charger. Some trickle chargers will ruin a battery if left on. A charger like the Deltran Battery Tender Junior has technology to keep your battery topped up without overcharging. And they're less than $25 at places like amazon.com.
Here are a few links to threads about chargers:
Where's the mod for easy batter tending?
Battery float charger from Harbor Freight for only $6.99
Winter battery charging
battery tender - new owner
Battery Tender / Charger for Vespa
Question about Battery Tenders