How to Preserve Your Classic Car Long Term
January 2nd, 2010
If you have taken the time to rebuild and restore a classic car to its original glory, the last thing you want to do is leave it subject to the ravages of time, whether you keep it indoors or out. In order to preserve your car long term, there are certain steps you must take to protect it.
First, whether or not you plan on driving your car anytime soon, you should fill up the fuel tank and add additive and corrosion inhibitors. This will leave less space for air and less of a chance that condensation will occur in the fuel tank. Also, add fuel stabilizer and take your car for a quick spin to distribute throughout the engine. This will help prevent engine corrosion.
Next, change the oil. No matter if it is needed right now or not, if you plan on storing your car long term, it is best to put fresh oil in it. Next, remove the spark plugs and spray lubricant on the area before replacing the plugs. This will help prevent corrosion and leakage that lead to rust.
Open up the hood and spray all exposed metal engine parts with a lubricant like WD-40, this will help prevent rust and leave a protective film on metal parts.
Next, check and make sure that the parking brake is not engaged. While many people believe that the parking brake should be on if the car is stationary, if you are planning on keeping the car parked long term this can actually lead to brake corrosion. Therefore, disengage it to protect it.
Finally, disconnect the battery. This will prevent the battery from draining if the car is to sit long term in one space.
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