Used Classic
Cars
By Hanna Nilson
Used classic cars make for a great hobby,
collection or even just for showing off. Whatever your forte may be; it
always helps to know how to care for your used classic car, especially
when preparing it for storage.
Depending on where you live, classic car registration
policies may be more or less lenient when it comes to driving your car on
public roads. Granted, used classic cars make great spectacles for
classic car shows and parades, they’re not the most efficient means
for day-to-day transportation. For example, if you register your used
classic car in a state which has more strict driving policies; you may
find yourself having to keep your classic car in storage for longer
periods of time.
Here are some tips and guidelines for storing your
used classic cars:
1)
For car collectors who live in naturally dry areas may find it
easier to handle the maintenance of their
classic car value because this climate allows for a lesser chance of
rusting and car body corrosion. In any other case, it is important to keep
your cars well stored and protected from damp conditions or harsh weather.
2)
Similarly, by washing and waxing your used classic car, you can
help to keep the body looking better over time. Be sure to do this early
in the day to give it plenty of time to completely dry before putting it
gets stored. Also, don't forget to clean the interior!
3)
Engine rusting is one of the worst things that could happen while
your classic used car is in storage. To prevent the engine from rusting,
use a lubricant such as Wd40. Any type of wax oil could be a substitute
for the Wd40, but you may have to wash this off during the warmer
seasons.
4)
Also, if you fill your car’s gas tank, it will reduce the rate at
which the gasoline will be diluted or dries-up into varnish. Remember to
run the car for a few minutes in order to fill the entire fuel system.
5)
Dirty oil is contaminated with acids and water that can cause your
used classic car’s axle bearing to prematurely fail and/or rust. So,
change the oil! Furthermore, if you plan on storing your classic used car
for an extra long time, remove the sparkplugs. You may also want to spray
some cylinder lubricant into the cylinders before replacing the plugs.
Doing this will help to stop the piston rings from rusting to the cylinder
walls.
6)
If your used classic car is a convertible; leave the top up and the
windows and vents closed because if you leave the top down, creases to
form in the fabric. If you’re going to cover the car, use cloth as opposed
to plastic. You may also want to use come covering under the car in order
to prevent condensation from reaching the bottom of your car.
7)
Before locking it up, take the car on a good 30 minute run. This
will evaporate all the moisture in the exhaust and in the engine. Then
park the car with the hand brake off. You cab use wheel chocks if you’re
afraid it might role.
8)
As the car is parked for a long period of time, even the slightest
strain in the tires can lead to deflating. By over-inflating the tires
before moving your used classic car(s) to storage, you can prevent the
tires from deflation and flat spots.
9)
Lastly, disconnect the car battery in favor of putting the car to
sleep. An active battery can be hazardous to your stored car as well as
use up unnecessary energy. So, kill the battery to completely set your car
in hibernation mode.
Once your
car has been successfully stored, don’t forget to pay it an occasional
visit. One of the best things you can do to keep your used classic car
looking and driving great, is taking it out for an occasional drive. It’s
recommended that you drive your car once every 2-3 months.
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