Collecting vintage and classic cars isn’t just for the small car enthusiasts, but it’s a way of getting to understand the vintage car history. Car enthusiasts are not only interested in collecting but are also passionate about how each of their cars plays a role in history. However collecting such cars can be fun, it usually comes with a lot of maintenance compared to other car models. That is why it’s important to undertake routine maintenance practice to ensure that they are running well and this will keep their value up.
This guide will explore some of the ways you can maintain your vintage car so that it becomes your daily run around.
Take it for a ride
Although you might consider safeguarding your classic car by locking it up in the garage, there is no fun in that. In fact, getting out on the road and showing off your car is not only a thrill but it also ensures that it’s running well and that all moving parts get lubricated. If your car sits around for long, the chances are that it might be prone to rust and corrosion which can prevent it from staying in a running condition. Regular driving ensures that you are in a better position of point out any potential problems when cruising around your neighborhood.
Check your tires regularly
Every vintage car enthusiast knows that wheels and tires can break or make the look of a classic car. Additionally, if you are usually on your wheels then it’s worth checking your tires regularly. If you notice uneven tread wear, irregular places on the sidewall, as well as signs of dry rot, you should take immediate action.
Brakes
The braking system should be a top maintenance practice if you are looking to maintain any GM classic car. Most of the old models feature a single master cylinder which, if any one brake item fails, can cause the entire braking system to fail. Good maintenance will reduce the risk of a total failure, as would an upgrade to a dual master cylinder, while boxing up the old unit for future judging or sale.
The cooling system
Your classic car cooling system is also an essential component when it comes to maintaining your car. Although you might have an original engine, the chances are that the cooling system can leave your engine warmer than expected. If you haven’t used your car for more than a year, you should inspect and replace the heater hoses and radiator. It’s also one of the simple maintenance practices that will prevent you from sitting on the side of the road.
The fuel system
Gas goes bad over time, so it is important to drive the car and use up old fuel or drain it from time to time to remove bad gas and any water that may have entered the tank. Water may enter the fuel system by just the simple process of the ambient air temperature going up and down. Most vintage cars vent fuel gases directly out to the surrounding air. So as fuel get hotter, it pushes air out of the tank. As the tank cools, it sucks in moist air from outside of the tank. Each time it does this process, it brings in just a little bit of water vapor. If it does this process each day, but the end of a year, it has done it 365 times and the amount of water introduced into the tank can be enough to cause the car to stop running and corrode the items it passes through.
Fluid Levels
Let’s face it, classic cars leak fluid. It’s therefore essential to check the fluids regularly. This is especially true after driving your classic, as they also burn oil and lose oil through crankcase venting.
Samantha Tung is a contributing author and media specialist for Caliber Collision.
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