Review This Checklist before You Take Your Classic Car out of Storage!
Spring is upon us, and with it, many classic car owners are getting ready to wake their precious old-timers from their winter sleep and get them back on the streets. But before your classic car is ready to roll again, you need to make sure that everything is still running as it should.
If you made sure to properly store your car during the winter, then there’s nothing to worry about. In this article, our experts have come up with a handy checklist for prepping your classic car for another spring.
Check for Leaks
To cross the first item off the checklist, you need to make sure that there are no leaks or signs of a potential leak in your car’s systems. The first place you should look is under the car. Check for leaks in the power steering, transmission, brake lines or the cooling system.
While you’re at it, check the radiator hoses for any damage. Around the clamps is where you might find a sign of decay first.
Refresh the Fluids
You should make an effort to replace the fluids in your classic car, to make sure it’s ready for another safe season. Replace the oil, the coolant, drain the brake lines and refill the system. Since using old fuel can be dangerous for your car’s engine, we suggest replacing any fuel that was left in the tank during the winter as well.
Recharge the Battery
One of the things we suggested when we wrote about proper winter storage is disconnecting the battery before you lock your old-timer away. If you used a trickle charger your battery is likely ready to roll immediately. If you didn’t, you should charge the battery just in case.
Inspect the Exhaust
If you stuffed your exhaust pipe with a rag to prevent vermin from invading your classic car, don’t forget to remove it before you start the engine for the first time. While you’re at it, make sure to inspect and clean the air filter in the engine.
Check the Tire Pressure
The tires might have lost some air while your car was in storage. To make sure your ride is smooth and safe, check the tire pressure and inflate them if necessary.
Start the Engine
Before you take your classic car out for a ride make sure to give the engine a test run to let it warm up. If you replaced the fuel like we suggested, you might have to add some starter fluid to the carburetor. While the engine is running check the car for leaks or other signs of malfunction again. Test the brakes and check the steering. Finally, shift through the gears to ensure the transition and clutch are in order.
Get Out On The Road!
While your car might be perfectly fine, don’t push it too far just yet. Stay near your garage until you make sure that everything is running smoothly and that there are no complications. When you take the car out for its first spin this year, listen carefully to hear if something sounds off and pay attention to how the car is running.
If you encounter any problems during your first run, you can always rely on Chimera Motors, reputable service offering classic car repair in Orange County. Contact us at 714-907-0609 to find out what we can do to get your classic car in prime shape again!
