winter storage cover

[Samwise]

Hello to all,
Just joined today. In August I purchased a 1993 Ford E250 Sportsmobile conversion van. It won't fit inside my garage here in northern Colorado so I bought a Gold Line cover (the smallest I could find) thinking this would be the best way to protect it. The previous owner in Idaho had it for 25 years in a heated garage and I want to sustain the mint condition that I inherited the best I can. So I slipped the cover over this vehicle and it is just swimming in all the fabric.
My question is: Can I store it for long periods with the cover on BUT the penthouse top raised? The extra height would make the cover work better - I think. Any thoughts? I certainly appreciate any advise. Thanks.

[BrianW]

I wouldn’t store it for any period of time with the top up. Especially in snow country. Between potential high winds, snow loads, etc., I’d be worried about messing it up.

Can you return the cover and get one that fits better?

[Twoxentrix]

Not sure how your Van is outfitted so i'll just bring up the obvious: are you familiar with winterizing? Do you have water and/or plumbing on board? Or are you already familiar with the preventive measures?

Unfortunately I cant provide you a qualified answer to your question since I too am on the prowl for a cover - finding it difficult to identify one that would fit my application since our Van has the roof rack, lights, and Thule box (which i prefer not to remove), as well as having to make allowance for Front and Rear bumper w/ Storage box & 35" protruding tire.

Welcome aboard!

[BVerhulst]

As a fellow northern Colorado resident, I would suggest that if you are anywhere east of the continental divide, the wind is going to make that cover rub the paint raw. Winterize well, and leave it uncovered. Yes, the sun will take a toll over time...