How short a drive is too short?

[jwinkler]

My car and I have been spending too much time apart - to the point that I opt to skip a drive because I don't want to go through the hassle of getting it warmed up, listening and sniffing for problem sounds and smells, and the general paranoia around thinking something's sure to go wrong since it's been sitting too long.

So I have resolved to take the car on a short drive at least every other night to start to get to know and trust it again. My question is how long should that drive be? Do I just need to get the engine warm enough for the thermostat to open, a couple of dips into the secondaries, and an easy pace back home?

Any and all opinions appreciated - thanks -

JLW

[blykins]

Need to get the oil and water up to temp for a bit, otherwise you won't get rid of any condensation.

[Clois Harlan]

Even in cold weather I will go out start my cars up and let them warm for about 5 minutes then take them on a 5 or 8 mile run. Usually by the time I get back I have cleaned out the condisation and the carb too. Sometimes it is just 20 minutes sometimes it is considerably longer.

[427 Street]

Originally Posted by blykins

Need to get the oil and water up to temp for a bit, otherwise you won't get rid of any condensation.

Exactly

[CHANMADD]

I actually do not like to sit and let the car idle cold....... I start up and and drive but watch the oil pressure and keep the the revs down to stop high oil pressure spikes which can blow filters and seals. I run solid rollers and they need oil which they get from splash........from the crank spinning also the rockers, same thing. You must drive it long enough to stabilize the oil and coolant temps, which as said above will stop condensation and other corrosive things happening. Another thing no- one ever mentions is the drivetrain...ie gearbox and dif and...and...all need to be warmed up for the same reasons.....its fun to drive anytime anyway...even if you're freezing .

[PANAVIA]

Minimum cobra drive should be to see your friends for breakfast ( with their cobras )

[fordracing65]

Do you drive once a day, week, month, how long in between drives is too long?

[vector1]

I don't think letting them sit months at a time is hard on them, but once you decide to go the water is going to warm up first, then the oil takes a bit longer. I would suggest 15-20 miles for the oil.