Here are some steps to get your classic ready for springtime–and check out the video at the bottom of the screen to dive deeper.
Open up the hood and inspect your engine. Look for anything amiss–check your fluid levels and make sure everything looks shipshape.
Check for puddles of fluid under the car. Repair any issues before the car hits the road. Brake calipers and cylinders can leak onto the wheels themselves, so look carefully.
Clean the battery terminals and reconnect the wires after you make sure that the battery is fully charged.
Check and set your tire pressures.
Unplug the coil wire and crank the engine for about 30 seconds. This will build oil pressure throughout the engine and help lubricate the now-dry engine.
Make sure that fuel is getting to the carburetor or fuel injection. Check for any fuel leaks and repair if necessary.
Now plug in the coil wire and start the engine. Then allow it to idle at a fast 1500 to 2000 rpm for a minute or so. Go back around the car while looking for leaks or issues.
Give the brake and clutch pedals a push or two to make sure they feel normal. Double check for any leaks from the master cylinder, wheel cylinders and clutch cylinder after your footwork.
Go for a short drive around your neighborhood and return home after a few miles. Go back over the car and look for any new issues, leaks or problems.
Now it’s time to put on some miles. After a few drives, give the car another once-over. Make sure everything is working correctly–parts like thermostats in the cooling system have a habit of getting sticky after a long nap. Finish up by adjusting the carbs and bleeding the brakes to make sure that everything is ready for a pleasant season of driving.
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By David S. Wallens
Photography Credit: Chris Tropea
