Winterize your Classic Car

Winterize your Classic Car

The mercury is dropping and the nights are drawing in. It's time to start thinking about that 'investment' you so eagerly purchased over the summer. Ideally we would all garage our classic cars over the winter, not bringing them out again for their first wax and polish until the following spring. Unfortunately for many of us that is just not an option, so a little bit of preparation early on can save you a lot of heartache later. The two main things you should be thinking about are ensuring that your winter driving is as safe as possible and protecting your classic car from the harsh elements. Here are a few tips to get you on the right track.

Safer Winter Driving

1. Check your Antifreeze/Coolant. Make sure that the type you are using is sufficient for the climate you live in. Check the levels regularly; however always check when the engine is cold. Not only will you get a more accurate measurement but also opening a hot radiator is an extremely dangerous thing to do!

2. Check your tires. You'll need good tread to get through 6 inches of snow. A change in temperature will make all sorts of parts on your car expand and contract. This includes the air in you tires. Ensure that they are inflated to the correct PSI (pounds per square inch) for your vehicle; this will not only help with traction but will extend the life of your tires. Also remember that the rubber your tires are made from will also contract. Check old tires for cracking and replace if necessary. It's easier to do it now than on the side of the road in freezing temperatures!

3. Belts and hoses are also likely to expand and contract as the temperature changes. Check them over and change any that show signs of wearing or cracking.

4. Add a gas treatment. Over time water vapor can build up in your gas lines and will freeze when the temperature drops, blocking your fuel lines. A can of fuel treatment early on will remove the moisture and prevent this from happening.

5. Check the condition of your battery. Most auto parts stores and mechanics garages will do this for you free of charge. A hard to start engine can be impossible to start with an old battery, so replace if necessary.

6. Check your spark plugs. While your mechanic is checking your battery have him take a look at the plugs too. Corroded, oxidized or badly aligned spark plugs can also make it impossible to start the car in the morning.

7. Clean or replace your wiper blades. There are many brands of snow blades available that are designed not to stick to the windshield. Not all will work with older cars however, so at the very least, clean the ones you have with an alcohol based cleaner. Also check your washer fluid level and keep it topped up. Make sure to use a washer fluid that has some antifreeze in it.

8. Stock your car with some essential and emergency items.

· Flashlight (check the batteries!)

· Ice scraper

· Well stocked First Aid Kit

· A blanket, hat and gloves in case you brake down without the engine running and need to keep warm.

· Reflective triangle warning sign or flares

· Jumper cables

Protecting That Investment

1. Wash and dry your car regularly. The salt on the roads will wreak havoc on your bodywork and before you know it that cancer of all cars, rust, will be well and truly set in. So give it a good clean, underside included, as often as possible.

2. Check all fluids regularly; older cars and older gaskets have a habit of springing leaks throughout the winter months. It's easier to top up the fluid than replace a major part that has seized up. If you find a constant leak, get it fixed or fix it yourself. You knew there would be a few running repairs when you bought your car, so no complaining about the cost. Remember it's all about keeping that classic car on the road.

3. Apply a good wax early on. A good wax applied in several layers will help keep that 'all original bodywork' you paid so much extra for, in great shape come sun, snow, rain or shine.

4. Drive defensively. Just because you know you don't have anti-lock brakes and traction control doesn't mean everybody else does. Those one off parts are just as hard to come by regardless of whose fault it was they got wrecked in the first place. Drive with others in mind and try to think ahead. Remember you can't think for the idiot in front of or behind you, but you can try and get out of the way if they come skidding towards you!
About the Author

Andrew Holliday is responsible for the design and upkeep of www.dicksclassiccars.com, the online storefront for Dicks Classic Cars, based in Marietta, OH. Check out their full Classic Car Stock List next time you are looking for that little piec

Written by: Andrew Holliday