Restoring your 'classic'

So you recently purchased your classic car and cannot wait to get started on the restoration. The excitement is high but the task ahead looks daunting. Don't despair, it can be done. But before you get started, there are certain realities that you should be aware of.

It will take a significant investment in time and money. And, if you are not organised, you are going to get frustrated, therefore:

a. Determine your budget (how much money can you spend monthly?). You can start, even if you do not have all the money now.

b. Determine how much time you can devote to the project on a weekly basis. A few hours each weekend can be quite effective in getting ahead.

Inactivity is bad for a car, everything deteriorates:

a. Rubbers rot

b. Upholstery mildews

c. Metal rusts

d. Engine parts seize up

e. Wirings short-circuit

f. Brakes lock up

g. Batteries go dead.

The most important thing is to get started immediately. No matter how simple the task, the earlier you start, the better it will be. Listed below are a few simple steps to get you started, most of which can be completed in a day. These steps are based on the assumption that the car will be inactive for an extended period of time.

1.  Start by cleaning up the car. Remove road dirt and clean the upholstery. Road dirt will contribute to further rusting if left on the car for an extended period of time. Dirty upholstery and carpets become the home for all types of critters.

2. Change fluids: brake, engine, and gear/transmission. Chances are those fluids have been there for a number of years and all fluids break down over time.

3. Grease joints (steering/ suspension). Lubricate door hinges - a can of WD40 can save you thousands of dollars down the road.

4. Drain fuel tank (if storing for more than six months). There are compounds available which can seal the tank and retard further rust. This will require removing the tank, but it will be worth it. I would suggest that the fuel tank be cleaned and treated before you start driving it.

5. Drain cooling system and leave open for ventilation. If the engine will not be started for some time. The coolant/water mixture will should not be left standing in an inactive engine.

6. Remove battery. It is going to die anyway, better if used in another car.

7. Raise car onto jack stands - remove tyres. If left standing on the tyres they will develop flat spots and be totally useless when you are ready to drive. Most people will leave the tyres on because they plan to replace them anyway, but it helps to have a set of functional tyres so you can easily move the car around when ready.

8. Invest in a good car cover, at least a double layered one. Just leaving a car wrapped up in a tarpaulin is not enough, you need to protect against the elements. Remove the cover periodically to allow for ventilation. Avoid leaving the car on the grass.

9.  If you can afford it, it would be good to strip the car and rustproof it. This is an investment that will pay back for itself when you are ready to restore.

10. Join a classic car club. There you will find lots of enthusiasts and experts who can help you on this journey.