THIS POST

COMMON FAULTS WITH CLASSIC CARS

Posted. 26 January 2018

There is a beautiful sense of owning a piece of history that comes from owning a classic car. Something built when things were designed to last, and the materials used were thick and lustrous. There were also very few interior mechanicals to go wrong!

However, sadly, no car is infallible, and keeping an eye on some of the most commonly found faults in classic cars can help you to keep your prized possession in peak condition.

Brakes and Tyres

An essential area of maintenance, regardless of the age of your car, it’s important to consider the variable changes in tyre and brake design - and the impact this will have on your car. Classics were often originally fitted with cross-plies, and now use modern radial tyres which provide better grip and are longer wearing. However, this extra grip can put increased pressure through the wheels to the suspension. Check for any stress cracks between the wheel mounting holes.

Lubrication

Classic cars were designed with regular maintenance in mind. As a classic car owner, this is something that you swiftly become aware of, and is usually something that is built into your routine. It’s vital that you don’t neglect lubrication. One of the greasier jobs - literally - it can be something that is easily forgotten or avoided. Each model is different with regards to where needs treating as standard, but lack of lubrication will cause serious running issues. Keep your oil (grease) gun close to hand!

Bodywork - Rust, Corrosion and Condensation

Classic cars are more prone to rust and bodywork corrosion, as they have a lack of rust protection in comparison to more modern cars. Many older cars will find their end not at the hands of engine trouble, but through a fully worn frame.

Corrosion caused by minor damage can, if swiftly noticed, be mitigated. Other forms of rot, such as rot that begins from within, is harder to deter. Getting your car regularly cleaned and valeted professionally will prevent damp and dirt from creeping into the paintwork and penetrating any deeper. Build ups of mud in hard to reach areas are a major cause of rust. Prevention is far easier than cure, so putting the work in will save you further down the line.

Know Your Car

One of the most frustrating issues can be having to lay up your car because you can’t source the right parts. If you haven’t already got one, purchase a handbook and workshop manual for your car. It’s also possible to buy car mechanic magazines from the era your car was made, to check for any commonly found faults and fixes. Keep a good stock of parts and, if sourcing is an issue, try attending auto-jumbles where you can start to build up a back catalogue of those hard to find pieces.