If you’ve put your time and money into an antique car, you’ll need to keep it in top condition. There’s likely to be lengthy periods that you’re not in the use of your old car, be it in winter or when you travel on vacation and it’s essential to consider how you will store it.
There are checklists and tips in this manual that can help you keep your old car in great condition.
How to store a classic Car
The place you keep your classic vehicle is vital. The area must provide security from
weather
temperature extremes
moisture
and in addition it should be safe.
We will take a take a look at some typical places that cars of the past are kept. We also offer tips to protect your vehicle from damage.
Brick Garage
A brick garage is the best protection for classic cars regardless of whether it’s connected to a home or a standalone piece. Bricks are capable keeping a constant temperature and dry environment, which is crucial to prevent condensation in cold temperatures.
It’s good to know:
If you have a large gap in the garage door you might want to consider covering your vehicle to keep it safe from cold temperatures. This will stop condensation.
Pay attention to the temperature in your garage. If your garage is cold in winter, and hot in the summer, you’ll have to do something to safeguard your vehicle.
Replace your locks to secure your garage. The standard locks for garage doors are easy to break, so think about installing padlocks to increase security.
It is recommended to open the windows of your car so that air circulates throughout it.
Pre-Cast Wooden or Concrete Unit
Other options for keeping your vehicle inside is to lock it up in a precast wooden or concrete compound that you might have constructed specifically for the purpose of housing your car. These are an easier alternative for those who don’t have the spaceor budget, or time to build an entire brick garage. They can shield your vehicle from the harshest of elements.
You could also consider an outbuilding or barn that is located on your property, however we recommend keeping your vehicle covered in the event that animals or damp gets into the. There are now pop-up structures, such as gazebos which are simple to put up and help keep your vehicle somewhat safe and secure, so you might want to think about one of these in the event that you have space.
It’s good to know:
Concrete materials can be stale and lack breathability and have a lower circulation of air, making them more vulnerable to mildew and mould to grow. To stop this from happening it is recommended to add two or three fans in the area every for a week or so, to keep air moving and prevent things from getting old.
Get in tocuh with the experts at springfieldsteelbuildings.com for vintage car storage solutions.
Outdoors
If the only alternative is to store your vehicle outside There are some things you are able to do safeguard it.
Choose a cover that is specifically designed for your model of vehicle. This provides the best protection and an ideal fit to avoid wind-driven ‘rub’. If you’re unable to locate the cover that’s made to the exact specifications, then choose one that is a little too large, then firmly securing it into place to ensure that everything is protected. You must protect the cover from sunlight, as well as tree sap , and moisture.
It’s an excellent idea to elevate your vehicle off the ground when you can, since this can protect the wheels, tyres and undercarriage from moisture and rain.
It’s good to know:
Do not use a typical tarpaulin to cover your vintage vehicle, use an exclusive car cover. Tarps and other types of plastic sheets do not provide the proper level of protection, and they won’t allow the car to breathe, which can lead to the formation of mildew, condensation, and mould.
How to store and lay-up the Classic Car
Clean it out and inside Clean it thoroughly. Getting rid of any dust, dirt or water from the vehicle is vital prior to putting it into long-term storage. Such substances could cause corrosion or rust if placed on surfaces that are exposed and dirt on the interior can create bad smells or mould.
Apply a wax to the paintwork. This protects it from corrosion, moisture, as well as other harm when you use the right hard wax, it can last for a couple of months, and will still shine the next time you go on a trip. Examine the paintwork on a regular basis and address any rusty spots immediately.
Lift the windshield wipers up – lift them slightly off the windshield, and ensure that they’re dry and clean.
Remove the battery if you’re planning to park your vehicle for more than a month, take it off the battery to stop it from taking the battery.
Bring your car to block and take off the wheels. Placing a classic car on an jack stand is a great way of keeping the shape and the condition of the tyres and also relieves tension from the suspension.
Utilize wheel chocks instead of the handbrake. Handbrakes are prone to be prone to squeezing in time, which is why it’s recommended to avoid it and instead keep the vehicle in place using an assortment of wheel chocks.
It is important to open the windows to increase air circulation. It’s vital that your vehicle is ventilated when it is stored for long periods of time. The windows should be opened an inch. This allows airflow throughout the cabin. If you’re not sure then use fans to air-condition the cabin every week.
Maintenance Tips for You Classic Car is in Storage
Look for signs of condensation and water Do not allow condensation to build up in the car, since this could cause smells and mould.
Make sure the engine is turned over. It is essential that oil circulates throughout it from time time, in order to prevent internal components from squeezing up or causing issues. Try to turn your vehicle on and then run it for 5 minutes per week.
Take it out for a spin If the weather is dry, it’s a great option to get your vehicle out to explore the area. This can recharge your engine, recharge the battery, and increase the flow of air. Be sure to clean the undercarriage by using the help of a hose, to eliminate road debris and salt before placing it back.