I've read some threads on winter storage, but this is a little different I think. I have acquired a running parts car (91 300D). It will not be registered or insured, therefore I can't drive it on the road. Plus its (only) problem is that it has a busted spring perch, so it wouldn't be safe to drive anyway.

Until I begin hard-core cannibalizing, I want to do whatever I can to maximize the health of all components. I know that not being able to drive it is not optimal. I also know that turning it on briefly does more harm than good. But what if, once a month or so, I ran it for an hour. Would that help or hurt? If I need to treat it like a perpetual winter storage, I will. But I thought it might help if I turn it on once in a while, provided I let it run long enough.

If and when the time comes where I need the engine or whatever, I want it to be in decent shape.

Thanks.

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14 E250 Bluetec 4Matic "Sinclair", Palladium Silver on Black, 160k miles
06 E320 CDI "Rutherford", Black on Tan, 180k mi, Stage 1 tune, tuned TCU
91 300D "Otis", Smoke Silver on Tan, 145k mi, wastegate conversion, ALDA delete

19 Honda CR-V EX 79k mi
Fourteen other MB's owned and sold
1961 Very Tolerant Wife