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Tips to Maintain Classic Cars
Classic cars are more than a mere hobby; they represent the glory days of automotive engineering and design. Therefore, it is crucial that these classics remain enjoyable for years to come.
Here are a few key strategies for maintaining your classic car: Driving it regularly will circulate fluids and put its various components through their range of motion, helping prevent corrosion and prolong its life.
Regular checkups
While many classic car owners know their vehicle inside and out, it is still wise to have professional mechanics with expertise іn classic car service perform regular checks on it. A trained mechanic familiar with the specific needs оf classic cars will keep an eye out for issues not readily evident to owners and ensure your classic іs are in top-shape for when the time comes to hit the road.
Do not leave your classic sitting in the garage for months at a time – even “quiet” cars can start rusting when not driven regularly. A short drive once or twice every month helps circulate fluids and put various parts through their range of motion, helping ensure maximum health of your classic.
Greasing a classic car’s chassis and suspension regularly is also highly recommended, even though classic cars tend not to rust as quickly. Even small leaks or damages may add up over time to damage components and compromise their integrity over time.
Consistent waxing and cleaning
Be it driving out for a spin or attending a local car show, proper cleaning and waxing of classic cars is paramount to their condition and value. In particular, these beauties often command high auction bids; therefore extra care must be taken in their upkeep in order to preserve both beauty and worth.
Wax provides classic cars with extra protection from blemishes and rust and makes cleaning off dirt easier than ever. Wax helps prevent dirt from coming in contact with the paint surface, providing an effortless one-wipe solution.
Along with waxing, maintaining the interior of your classic car is also key for its appearance. Carpets, upholstery and dashboards take a beating over time and may lose texture or luster; using cleaners and conditioners specifically tailored for these materials can restore their luster while prolonging their beauty for longer.
Pump the breaks
An old classic car that has been left sitting idle can develop surface corrosion in its wheel wells and other areas over time, so it is crucial that any signs of rust spots be treated immediately.
As well as washing down the undercarriage regularly, it’s also recommended that you regularly pump the brakes – this ensures the fluid remains clear of metal shavings which could potentially pose problems later.
These tips will help ensure that you keep your classic car in great shape for years to come. While late night infomercials may offer quick fixes and magic solutions, nothing beats consistent care and maintenance of a classic vehicle. If you would like yours professionally serviced contact Milito’s Auto Repair now.
Take it for regular rides.
Classic cars need to be driven regularly in order to properly circulate fluids, put various components through their range of motion, and realign as necessary. Driving also makes the car more livable.
Stored for too long in the garage, classic cars can develop serious problems. Most notably, their batteries will weaken to an insufficient state of charge to power your vehicle properly, and you should monitor for signs of gas leaking out or odd smells that suggest other issues may exist.
If you live somewhere with salty roads, it’s also wise to make sure that after each drive, your undercarriage is hosed down after each trip – this helps rinse away corrosive road salt while also preventing surface rust formation. If possible, always opt for gasoline that’s free from ethanol as this will also help minimize corrosion issues.
Keep it covered
Classic cars require special maintenance care. Knowing exactly when and how to take care of them is vital in keeping them in optimal condition.
The elements can be the enemy of a classic car – sun fading paint, rain leaving behind residue from waxing efforts, wind blowing dirt against its finish leaving scratches behind – keeping your classic car covered or garaged will protect it against them all.
Don’t forget to start up your classic car at least once every month while it is in storage, even if only temporarily. This will allow fluids to circulate properly and put various components through their range of motion, helping prevent potential issues from developing.