Classic cars attract like a magnet. Fans of youngtimers and oldtimers are constantly increasing, and more and more people decide to buy such a car. In addition to the prestige, you gain incredible satisfaction from driving. How is it with the use of a classic in winter? Is it better to use it for regular driving or safely overwinter in a garage? We check it out!
Winter is not an easy time for classics. If you choose to use your car, you need to remember that sand, slush, and salt can adversely affect the appearance and condition of your car. Car enthusiasts know that in case of classics, rust is the biggest bane of their owners. When buying a car, it is worth following the rule that a car that is technically defective is better than one that is in poor condition. Of course, after buying a young- or oldtimer, it is necessary to put it in the garage – moisture and salt (present especially in winter) have a negative effect on sheet metal. To safely drive a classic in winter, you need to thoroughly protect it from rust
Using a classic in the winter can be problematic – the car is already years old and simply may not start. Many owners of classics decide to suspend their operation for the winter period. Classics quite often suffer damage to the fuel pump or starter during the winter, so it is worth having alternative vehicles in the circuit
It has been proven that newer designs are safer – the lack of electronic systems in classics can sometimes decide a human life. Most problematic is the use in rain and snow of classic sports cars with rear-wheel drive and considerable engine power. If you want to drive a classic safely in winter, it will be necessary to invest in really good tires and to thoroughly check the condition of the car, especially the safety systems and brakes.
Owning a classic, on the one hand you would like to constantly show it off to the world, but on the other hand you want to save it, especially in winter. It is worth to think about leaving the car in the garage for this time of year, in order to enjoy the driving experience again in spring. How to properly “winterize” a classic? First of all, the condition of the car body and chassis should be taken care of, so it should be thoroughly washed and dried
Another thing is to protect all noticed damage to the paint and to preserve the chassis. In order to prevent condensation in the tank, the car should be filled up with water. Here it is worth betting on the best quality fuel, which will allow for maximum long use of the corrosion-free power system. It is also worth reaching for enrichers, improving the quality of fuel. One of the important tasks of a classic car owner is to disconnect the battery for the winter period and remember to charge it regularly. The battery itself should be stored in a warm room.
To make sure your classic is ready for spring, it’s a good idea to wash the upholstery before winter, as well as air it regularly – this way it won’t get musty and unpleasant smells won’t develop. It will also work here reach for a moisture absorber, whose task will be to prevent the condensation of water in the cabin of the car. It will also not hurt when you protect the gaskets of doors, trunk and bonnet with preparations (preferably those with silicone). If you don’t, low temperatures can cause the rubber parts to crack and crumble
Remember, too, that it is important to maintain increased tire pressure before a long stop (0.5 to 1 bar) or to use a workshop caster, which will not only have a positive effect on the tires, but also provide better air circulation under the car. However, if you choose to drive in winter, your car, used all year round, will not be stagnant, making it easier to operate
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