SOP for storing a boat with a carbureted engine over the winter is:

1) Fill the fuel tanks and include fuel stabilizer.
2) With the engine running, slowly pour motor oil into the carburetor until the exhaust begins to smoke, then rapidly pour in enough oil to choke the engine.
3) Remove the spark plugs and squirt about a tablespoon of motor oil into each cylinder. Replace the plugs.
4) Drain the block.
5) Disconnect the battery.
6) Loosen all drive belts.

The same drill is appropriate for any vehicle to be stored for an extended time. Startup poses no problem, though there is some initial smoke until the oil is burned off.

Crazy? Not at all - good practice. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

Frank