How to Store Your Classic Car during the winter, Part 2 - Classic Car Service Orange County Guide
In our previous post we started talking about what necessary precautions you should take before storing your classic car over the winter. By now you know that improper storage could lead to various malfunctions and damage even the best classic car service in Orange County will have trouble fixing.
Did you clean your car, drain the liquid from the fuel, cooling and breaking systems? Changed the oil and unplugged the battery? Good! If you are ready to put your old-timer to well-deserved rest, there are just a few more storage tips to go through.
Remove the Tires
The best way to store your car is raise it onto jack stands and store the tires separately. Storing your car for several months with its tires still attached could result in flat spots and put unnecessary strain on the suspension. This is why relying on jack stands is a great idea if you are not going to be “waking” your car up for another four or more months.
As for the tires, stack them on top of one another placing a piece of cardboard between them to avoid staining and scratching. It is also recommended to cover each tire with a big plastic bag.
The Devil is in the Detail
Your old-timer is almost ready for its well-earned rest. There are just a few more details to cover in order to ensure you find your car the way you left it after the winter season. First off, roll down the car windows and let air permeate the vehicle. This will help prevent any unpleasant odors from developing.
Placing baking soda in open boxes will help absorb any excess moisture and can help battle odors as well. To keep moisture out of the carburetor cover it up with a plastic bag. Last but not least, stuff a piece of rag in the tailpipe to prevent rats or other small critters from climbing up and seeking refuge in your car.
Another cool life hack we can share is making a checklist of all the steps you took while preparing your old-timer for storage, so you know what you need to reverse when you finally take the car out for a ride again.
Cover the Old-Timer
The last, and most important step is to cover the car to protect its surface from dust or other elements that could harm the paint. Classic car repair experts recommend using cotton flannel covers because they let the car breathe and are extremely soft. Some people tend to use polyester and cotton blends, but this material is not recommended as it traps the heat and moisture inside. Whatever material you choose, never ever cover your old-timer with plastic because water tends to condense on it.
The Premier Classic Car Service Orange County
Chimera Motors is the leading classic car service in San Diego, offering repair, restoration and performance upgrades to classic car owners. Our services are nothing short of highest quality, and we back our claims with favorable customer feedback. Call us at 714-907-0609 for any questions on classic car restoration or repair.
