As classic car owners, we have all dreamt of climbing behind the wheel and taking our pride and joy on a long road trip. The summer sun, the cool ocean breeze and the smell of vintage leather and petrol fill our thoughts. Then the dark cloud of reality sets in and we remember the last time we drove our newly restored classic more than an hour or two away from our homes. The engine overheated, the air con failed and the ride wasn’t as comfortable as we remembered it being in our youth. We quickly forget about the idea of a road trip and get back to work on our next garage project wishing that classic cars were as reliable as the modern cars we call our daily drivers.
If this sounds familiar, you know the frustration that many classic car owners have felt at some point. And, while your classic car might not have all of the creature comforts of modern day automobiles, the truth is, they can still endure a road trip every now and then without causing us too much grief. How so, you say? With the right amount of preparation and some simple precautions, just about any classic car can complete even the most ambitious road trip. Let’s see how:
6 Things You Can Do To Prepare Your Classic Car For A Road Trip
Tune-Up- even a very basic tune-up can work wonders on a car that is sluggish or that has ignition problems. Before any road trip, it is a good idea to give your classic car a tune-up including checking the spark and replacing the spark plugs, replacing dirty air filters, checking fuel system pressure, fluid levels and changing the oil and filter.
Check Hoses, Belts And Any Leaking Gaskets- a failed coolant hose, broken belt or leaking gasket could turn your road trip into a nightmare. Be sure to check your belts and hoses and replace any that are worn or damaged.
Tyres- before taking your classic car on a road trip, check the condition of the tyres and replace them if they are badly worn or damaged. Also, be sure to check your tyre pressure including the air pressure of the spare tyre.
Brakes- make sure that your brakes are functioning properly and that the fluid level in the master cylinder is correct.
Cooling System- check your classic car’s cooling system to make sure it is ready for long distance travel. Depending on the age and condition of your coolant, you might want to flush and refill your cooling system.
Road Test- before taking your classic car on a long road trip, take it for a test drive first. Note any issues it has and correct them before beginning your road trip.
Contact Arry The Stag
To learn more about one man’s journey to restore a classic Triumph Stag to its original beauty, contact Arry The Stag today!
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