Older cars and trucks need a good amount of TLC. IF cared for properly they will last for decades, if not centuries to come. Here are some of our most basic tips for keeping your classic car or truck in top condition.
Store Your Classic: It is best to keep your classic collector in a safe, locked garage or storage facility when not in use. It is also important that the storage are be as dry as possible. Humidity and cause metal and chrome to become tarnished or even corrode. If your storage has high humidity levels, you may want to consider a storage bubble like a CarCapsule to help regulate the humidity levels and add another layer of protection. A dehumidifier is also another option to help combat humidity.
Hand Wash Only: Mild soap, clean towels and a chamois are usually all you need to clean the interior and exterior of your classic. Don’t trust the average local car wash to take the necessary care with your prized possession. As for leather interior we have a great article on how to restore and care for leather seats. We also have some great tips on how to prevent paint swirls from washing your classic. And lastly you will want to apply;y a good wax to your vehicle at least twice per year. This will really help keep all of the grime and other impurities from damaging your paint or you body.
Fire Up Your Engine: You should certainly start your classic at least every two weeks if not each week. Let the engine get to normal running temperature before you turn it off. Make sure you open up the garage door or have decent ventilation to avoid getting sick. If the weather permits you should take your classic car or truck for a short spin around the block to help other mechanical equipment from freezing up like the hydraulics, clutch or brake systems.
Disengage the Emergency Brake: The emergency brakes on older cars can sometimes seize up when engaged for too long. They may not release once you take the brake off. Instead of using the emergency brake, use tire chocks under the wheels to keep it from rolling away.
Disconnect the Battery: If you don’t drive your vehicle on a regular basis it is wise to disconnect the battery and place it on a trickle charger. This way the battery won’t go flat and you will not risk damaging anything by jump starting your car.
Freshen Up the Fluids: Classic cars are very sensitive compared to the cars of today. Modern cars might be able to be driven hard without servicing, but your prized collector definitely cannot! You should regularly check all fluid levels and top off all fluids before you drive your car. Oil should be changed every 1000 miles or at least every 6 months. Other fluids in the transmission, cooling system and differential also need to be checked regularly. It is amazing how long parts can last when the fluids are changed frequently. The opposite is also true!
Get Professional Service: At least once a year it is advisable to have your classic car or truck looked over by an expert. Of course you can inspect the basics like tires, belts and hoses, but it is also a good idea to get a second set of trained eyes and ears to help to look for issues. A minor issue could turn into a major issue if not detected in time. That is why it is a good idea to take your vehicle to your local pros each year to have the vehicle looked over thoroughly. This is also good for the vehicle’s history to get a specialist service stamp in the service book.
Never Customize: Unless you never plan on selling the vehicle and do not care about its resale value, you should try to keep the vehicle as original as possible. This goes well beyond the aesthetics of the vehicle. Original motors and other mechanical parts are very important to the collectable value of your classic. If you do upgrade any parts, be sure you hold onto all the old parts so the car can be converted back to its original specifications for any future buyers.