As winter approaches, many classic car enthusiasts put away their vehicles for the chilly months to come. They do this to save their beloved cars from, rust, rot, blistered paint, seized parts and dead batteries. Here are some easy steps on how can you store your classic car for the winters more effectively.

To reduce the amount of water that can be absorbed by the gasoline, make sure you fill your fuel tank, as it will also slow down the risk of it turning in to varnish. Use a fuel additive and to make sure it circulates through the entire fuel system, keep the engine running for a while.

If you live in much colder areas, use a 50/50 ratio of water mixed with the antifreeze in the radiator.

Once again make sure you keep the engine running for a while to ensure proper distribution of the mixture throughout the cooling system.

Check and make sure that the clutch and break cylinders are properly filled with brake fluid. This will greatly reduce the chances of any water absorption. If it is possible bleed the brake and clutch systems to completely push any air out.

To save your engine from any damage, make sure you change the engine oil, as the dirty oil contains acids and water that can cause rust or corrosion inside the engine. Squirt some form of upper-cylinder lubricant in to the cylinders before replacing the plugs, this will save the piston rings from rusting.

Use a lubricant spray like WD40 inside the engine bay, this will remove provide a protective film on all the engine parts, belts and pipes

Wash and wax your car thoroughly, make sure you clean every part including the underside of the car. Blow or vacuum the interior properly and apply liquid leather solution to all leather seats and interior parts. Last but not the least, polish any wood components if present in your car. Make sure you give your car enough time to dry out properly before you store it.

To avoid any bugs and insects from entering the car, make sure all vents and windows are properly closed. Buy some moisture absorbers, and place then inside the car, this will help in protecting your interior against any moisture built up.

Thoroughly inspect areas like the engine hood and the boot to make sure that there is no water left from the washing. Check all compartments of the interior to make sure they are empty and free of moisture. Another most important thing is to pack all joints with fresh grease.

Don’t forget to let the hand brake off when you park your car for the storage. If possible chock the wheels or leave it in a gear to prevent any drifting. Stack your car on jack stands and remove the tyres. Store the tyres flat and make sure to cover them.

Depress the clutch and hold it with a piece of wood. This will prevent the clutch and pressure plates from sticking together. Disconnect the battery and attach it to a trickle charger to keep it alive. Cover your car with a breathable fabric, try not to use any plastic. If you live in a region where winter last longer, try to take your car out for short rides when ever it’s completely dry and sunny.

In case the car is a convertible, leave the convertible roof on to prevent any permanent creases which may appear due to long storage.

Start working on your storage plan 10 to 15 days before the winter hits, this will help you in drying the car properly and to avoid any mistakes made in a rush.

Tags: classic car, storing classic car