Top 5 Tips for Storing a Classic Car
A pristine vintage car is truly a sight to behold. They are gorgeous and, with proper care and maintenance, can remain reliable for ages. Still, the fact remains: they are old and frail.
That’s why storing a classic car requires more work than taking care of your modern ride. Here are a few things you should do before dropping off your old-timer at indoor classic car storage in Orange County CA.
How do you store collectible cars?
A collectible car is more of a “display piece” than an actual ride. Of course, you can (and should) take it out for a spin every once in a while. However, they aren’t meant as a primary means of transportation, this implies they’ll spend most of their life in storage.
However, prolonged stay periods and inactivity can take their toll on a collectible ride and it’s essential to properly prepare your car for storage. So, here are a few tips on how to do that.
Thoroughly clean your car before storing
Before dropping off your car at a specialized storage facility, you need to ensure both the exterior and interior are impeccable. This may seem counterintuitive, because it will collect dust while stationary. However, it’s not.
Residual dust and debris can scratch and damage the paint. Bird droppings can turn acidic and ruin the finish. Dirt and crumbs left inside can attract pests and leave behind a foul smell. And the list goes on.
It’s wise to invest some time in cleaning your car or take it to the pros for a good round of detailing.
Fill the tank and treat the fuel
A fuel tank is susceptible to damage, the same as any other part of a car. And moisture is its greatest enemy. It can accumulate inside the tank, causing it to rust and deteriorate. Fortunately, the solution to this problem is super simple.
All you need to do is top it up and add some fuel stabilizer. And – that’s it. A major problem averted.
Change the oil, too
Old oil is another invisible enemy and it targets the engine of your car. Before storing, make sure you change the oil and oil filters. Also, don’t forget to take the car for a short drive immediately after the oil change. It doesn’t have to be a long ride – a few laps around Mile Square Regional Park will more than do the trick.
Tires matter
Staying in the same place takes its toll on tires, and they can be quite expensive to replace. However, there’s an easy workaround.
All you need to do is inflate them to the maximum recommended PSI before storing them. If you want another layer of protection, you can jack the car up and leave it on axle stands. This will relieve the pressure both from the tires and bearing.
Take the car battery out
Car battery loses its charge if hooked to an inactive car. If you’re preparing your car for winter storage, be sure to take it out. However, if you do intend to take your car out during winter, consider investing in a trickle charger to ensure it’s ready to go when you need it.
Where can I store my classic car?
Vintage cars are sensitive and they require a suitable storage environment. A simple garage just won’t do it.
You can keep your car in a garage or outside, under an inflatable car cover. However, it has to be ventilated, insulated, dry, and under a controlled temperature.
Ensuring these conditions is a significant investment. If you’re storing your car for a prolonged period and don’t want to do excessive remodeling, the best option is to look for places in Orange County that offer professional classic car storage.
Where to find reliable indoor classic car storage in Orange County CA?
When you want an ideal place to store your classic car, Chimera Motors is your best choice. Our facilities are uniquely suited to cater to all your vintage car storage needs. With state-of-the-art security systems, controlled environment, and specialized space, we’re easily the leading indoor classic car storage in Orange County, CA.
What’s more, our specialists will regularly check up on your car and make sure everything’s in order. Get in touch with us today, and ensure your car gets the care it deserves.
