When it comes to taking care of a classic car, the amount of effort is not the same as looking after a newer one. Because of its condition, as well as its age, classical cars need a lot of preservation in order to maintain its appearance. As an owner, you might also take care of it to avoid the corrosion of the classic car’s original parts. However, the immense amount of effort in maintaining them all is part of the joy of owning one.
If you are a new to the ownership of classic cars, keeping and maintaining the car is one of its biggest challenges you could face. With that, to help you out, the list below will help you with regard to the practical advice on preserving your classic car.
Where to Store a Classic Car?
Storage is an important part of taking care of your car. Its not just about a storage, but it should be able to protect your classic car from temperature extremes, weather, and moisture. Here are some of the most common places where to store your classic car:
Outdoor
If your only choice is to store your classic car outdoor, there are still several things you could do to protect it.
One of the things you can do is to purchase a cover that is purposely-built for your car. A proper cover will offer your classic car the maximum protection it needs against some things that might ruin your car. On the other hand, if you cannot find a cover that will fit your car or with the specification that you have, it will be better if you go with the cover that is slightly bigger than your car. Afterward, peg it in place to make sure that everything is covered neatly. Car coverings are helpful to prevent it from moisture, bird droppings, and from direct sunlight.
Moreover, don’t use a standard tarpaulin as a cover of your classic car. This is because such material does not offer the same protection that the purposely-made cover could offer. Plus, it may cause mold and mildew since plastic sheeting or standard tarpaulin usually causes condensation.
Another thing you should consider is the tires of your classic car. It may be a good idea to lift your car from the ground to protect its tires.
In a Brick Garage
Brick Garage is the best way to place your car into since bricks do a great job in maintaining a moisture-free and stable temperature for your car. Also, brick garage is what exactly your car needs to prevent condensation, especially in cold conditions.
Remember that extreme temperature could affect your car. So, you might want to check if it gets too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter in order to take an action. Second thing is that, you must choose a good lock on your garage, to make it more secure. But, remember to open your car’s window a little bit for air to circulate through it.
What to Check Before storing a Classic Car?
Now that you know where to properly store your car, you must also know what to do before you finally put your car into hibernation. Here are the few things you need to prepare:
Clean, Polish, and Wax
Classic car owners should know that to protect it from corrosion, you got to make sure that your car is free from dirt and moisture. It means that you should clean it thoroughly and wax its paintwork to protect it. Most importantly, you also want to make sure that your car is completely dry before you store it into the storage. It worth remembering that any moisture can cause rust if left for a long period of time.
Disconnect its Battery
When not in use, the battery of cars will slowly eke-out of power. With that, it is a good idea to disconnect the car’s battery to preserve its charge. If not applicable, you could try and start your car every week for ten minutes in order to charge the battery. You can also use a smart charger that can monitor your classic car’s battery power to give it a charge when it needs it.
Keep Your Classic Car Out of Direct Sunlight
If you store your car outdoor, you’ll be needing to make some cover up since the sun could fade your car’s paintwork. Older car paints like the ones used in classic cars are susceptible to damage if directly exposed in sunlight. So, one thing you should do is to make sure that your car is all covered-up.