The last ride with the more or less old Schnauferl is approaching. The days are still mild and even open-top driving is still enjoyable. But at the latest when the cold and wet November weather cloud the view, the vintage car should have found its way to the depot dry and well protected. Because salted roads and wintry traffic conditions simply do not suit historic automobiles and can take a toll on them. The Automobile Club of Germany, with Histo-Monte and Oldtimer Grand Prix, has always been a profound connoisseur of the old car, knows how to prepare the rolling cultural asset for the winter break.
First, the vintage or youngtimer is thoroughly cleaned from the dirt of the driving season. The underbody and the wheel arches must not be forgotten. The car should then be dried thoroughly, carefully blowing out the joints with compressed air. Anyone who means it particularly well can also carry out sealing work on the cavities, in which case a specialist should be consulted. If you fill the tank just before it overflows, you avoid rusting inside. Fuel aging doesn’t matter if you’re planning to hit the road again next spring.
The tires are among the most sensitive components of the oldies. The inflation pressure should be increased to the maximum, the maximum value is usually indicated on the sidewalls of the tyre. The radiator water antifreeze must be checked and adjusted if necessary. Seals and window rubbers remain supple thanks to care with a glycerine stick, alternatively talcum powder can also be used. For many people, changing the oil is a question of faith. Some are afraid of deposits from the used oil, others prefer to start their journey into spring with fresh lubricant at the start of the season. For new owners of an old car, it is essential to clarify the insurance issue. Because if the vehicle is deregistered, the insurance cover is gone as well.
A sheltered but well-ventilated location should be chosen as the location for hibernation. The AvD warns that heated rooms are not ideal because the very dry heating air causes rubber and plastic to age faster and become brittle. On the other hand, room dehumidifiers, such as those offered by hardware stores and some discounters, are suitable for dehumidifying the stand.
When parking the car, you should put the vehicle in first gear and apply the parking brake. The AvD does not recommend jacking up, as the permanent unloading of the chassis can damage the joints and bearings. Better are so-called tire cradles, which are bought according to the wheel diameter and distribute the load more evenly on the tread of the tire due to their concave curvature. They help to avoid flat spots and thus the expensive and sometimes problematic replacement of tires. As a do-it-yourself alternative, the cart can also be parked on half-filled sandbags.
The battery must be disconnected and connected to a battery conditioner. It is advisable to grease the battery poles. This is particularly important with six-volt batteries, as they tend to outgas. It is best to remove the floor mats and store them dry at home. Moisture can accumulate in the car due to temperature fluctuations and weather changes. Here, too, dehumidifiers from the hardware store can help. Simply place one or two cartridges in the car.
An autopaletot offers protection against dust. However, it is important that it is permeable to air, so do not use an outdoor car anorak. Because the air must be able to circulate to avoid the formation of condensation. They are available in the accessories trade in the appropriate formats and even with a brand logo.
With a wink, the AvD gives classic car fans one last piece of advice: Before leaving the garage, stroke the car again and don’t forget to turn off the light at the parking space. (aum/Michael Kirchberger)