Almost all antique vehicles and collector cars which were fully restored or mostly restored are usually not daily drivers. They are hobbies their owners enjoy working on and driving on special occasions. This article gives you suggestions about how to properly maintain your restored or partially restored motor vehicle to keep it in top condition for many years of enjoyable use.
To maintain a vintage vehicle in top notch condition to ensure that it retains its value, the owner will have to ensure that is stays well-maintained. Which means attending to both the mechanical needs as well as the appearance needs of your vehicle. Maintaining the exterior and interior finishes in good condition is equally as crucial as standard fluid changes and tire upkeep.
The single most common mistake made by vintage car owners is permitting the automobile to sit for long amounts of time without giving it the essential care it needs. Irrespective of the number of miles a vehicle is driven each year, it needs fluid changes, lubrication, battery care, tire maintenance, and protectants for all exterior and interior finishes. Finish care upkeep may be lengthened if you use a classic car cover, nevertheless it should not be ignored.
All vehicles benefit from regular operation. When ever an automobile sits for extended intervals the motor, transmission, air conditioning and drive train seals degrade. As a consequence the vehicle will experience fluid leakages that are costly to repair. Virtually all garaged motor vehicles should be started monthly and driven at least four times per year.
Regardless of the amount a classic vehicle is driven the main fluids need to be drained and changed every year. This includes the motor oil and coolant. Secondary fluids for the braking system, tranny and drive train need to be changed every two to three years, according to the quality of the fluids used. Fluid changes are necessary to avoid expensive car repairs.
Your battery is another component that is in need of frequent care. Lead acid batteries are not meant to sit for very long time periods without use. They require frequent current flow to remain completely charged as well as to prevent the accumulation of lead at the bottom of the plates that triggers premature failure. The best way to keep a garaged car or truck battery in excellent condition is to utilize a battery tender during long stretches of storage. A battery tender is usually a low current trickle charge system.
The tires are one more classic car component requiring special attention. Although tire pressure and tread wear should be taken care of routinely on all vehicles, any time a automobile is garaged for long intervals there are additional concerns. Particularly, extended periods of sitting on cement floors might cause tires to “flat spot” and prematurely age. Here’s the reason why.
When tires are manufactured special waxes are put into the rubber. These waxes shield the tire and maintain its elasticity. When you drive your car the tires flex and the wax comes to the surface where it is able to do its job. When constantly at rest the wax never comes into play and dry rot takes place. Again, regular driving helps. When the car cannot be driven, it needs to be placed on blocks and the tires and wheels removed for care and storage.
There’s an additional mechanical maintenance item your classic vehicle will certainly appreciate, and that’s lubrication. Almost all people forget this, and it’s very important. Precisely what I’m speaking about is lubricating door hinges, locks, window mechanisms, door and trunk seals, and all points with a grease fitting. Your motor vehicle owner’s handbook will probably have correct lubrication procedures for all of these locations.
One of the reasons people collect classic cars is because they just like the appearance. Generally speaking the appearance needs of your restored or partially reconditioned classic car or truck are taken care of well enough, or are they? Even when your automobile is carefully tucked away inside your garage it requires maintanence and protection.
A garaged vehicle will not be immune to air-borne pollutants. That means normal washing, waxing in addition to metal polishing is vital. The good news here is that it’s not essential to do these things in the traditional way. The truth is, it’s more advantageous if you don’t.
One of the most recent additions to the auto care racks at your neighborhood auto parts retailer are spray and wipe products which both clean and preserve. Despite the fact that Meguiar’s came up with the spray and wipe product range, referred to as “quick detailing,” back in 1972, they have only recently attained widespread recognition. Mix spray and wipe products with super-soft micro-fiber clothes and you will have a fantastic combination. Lots of products can be used both in and out. The best products provide wax protection combined with cleaning.
Having a vintage car is a gratifying experience. You don’t have to fully baby the machine to maintain it in great condition, but you do need to do the essentials.
Come learn how a classic car cover will benefit your classic car. We offer complete auto detailing guides and restoration articles, too.