I fly an open cockpit AcroSport II in Colorado. I am at the end of my flying season, and am interested in thoughts on winterizing the airplane. Over the years, I have spoken to several mechanics, and airplane owners on what they do to store an airplane for about 5 months.

Some folks have recommended everything from draining fluids, to just putting the battery on a trickle charger, to running the airplane every couple of weeks or so. Colorado is a dry climate, which, I am sure, makes a difference in how one stores an airplane. As for running the airplane periodically, I have tried to fly when it is 40 F before, and I have only made it about I trip around the pattern before I had to land and thaw out, and the engine didn't get up to temperature. I am thinking that running the airplane on the ground periodically in the winter does more harm than good.

Thanks,

Mike