Storage ...

My own Series III e-type

As a new service, we are now offering car storage in a secure dry building a short distance from our workshops in Bandon. The cost is from €100 per calendar month and you can have access to your vehicle seven days a week. There is electricity, water and toilet facilities on site so you are welcome to work on your car while it is in storage.

Spaces are limited so if you would like to inspect the facilities or pre-book for the Winter, please contact Bob on 087 677 4202.

In addition to our basic storage service, we also offer the following services at an additional cost:

 

Storing your classic car safely ...

Primrose Yellow MGB

Over the Winter months and the colder, wet weather, many classic car owners reluctantly put their pride and joy in the garage, knowing that there will probably be few occasions to enjoy a run before the spring. Cars are designed to be used regularly and a prolonged period of storage can take its toll. However there are steps you can take to ensure your car is stored safely.

 

1. It’s very important to keep your car out of the elements, in a dry secure garage. The ever present rain and the winter elements will accelerate rusting and when the car isn’t being used regularly it has no chance to dry out properly. It is however important to ensure that the garage is well ventilated and that condensation does not build up. A storage area with a dehumidifier is preferable.

2. Fuel continuously evaporates out of the tank and this will keep a slight positive pressure in the tank, which helps keep moisture out. However, only the easily evaporated components of the fuel will evaporate, which happens to be the component that will catch a spark to fire a cold engine. What we are left with is the heavier components that work fine in a hot engine, but won't start a cold one. There should be sufficient fuel in the tank to ensure that the system does not dry out. Check the fuel cap is fitting correctly, if moisture is going to enter the tank, it has to get past the cap. If fuel is left unused for long periods, gums and varnishes can build up in the fuel tank, lines, and carburetor making it even harder to start the engine. Ideally if the vehicle has been left for a long period drain all the old fuel and re-fill with fresh fuel before trying to start the engine.

3. Ensure that the cooling system has the correct amount of antifreeze and that there are no leaks. You can purchase simple testers.

4. Before laying up the vehicle it is recommended that you change the oil and filter, making sure that there are no major leaks. Many classics, like my own E-Type, are prone to drip a little oil during storage. This could be due to seals and gaskets shrinking a little during the storage period and they may well swell again when the car is driven regularly. However you may wish to protect your garage floor by placing some absorbent cardboard or plastic trays underneath the car.

5. You should remove the battery from the vehicle (noting which polarity is connected to the chassis). It’s a good idea to use a battery charger/maintainer to keep the battery alive.

6. To protect your tyres and suspension you should put the vehicle on jack stands. If for some reason it is not possible to do this then you should regularly move the vehicle to help stop any flat spots appearing on the tyres.

7. Give the vehicle a good end-of-season washing, dry it thoroughly and apply a protective coat of wax, this will help to protect the paint. Garaged cars should be covered a with a breathable cloth cover. Plastic covers will trap dampness rising up from underneath car and can actually accelerate rusting. Leave the windows of the car slightly open to allow air to circulate. For total protection you could invest in a “carcoon”. See www.carcoon.co.uk for more details.

8. To help protect the leather and rubber apply a preservative to the seats, armrests and dash pads. This will help tp prevent cracking. Likewise, a good coat of rust inhibitor applied to unpainted metal surfaces will help prevent rust.

9. All kinds of small creatures could find a cosy winter home in the seats, carpets and dark, dry corners of your pride and joy. Place mothballs inside the vehicle, including under the dash, and cover the tailpipe. You can ward off mice and rats with a plug-in rodent repellent.

10. Convertibles should be stored with the top up. Convertible tops can actually shrink if they are left in the down position for an extended period of time. You can also get cracks, wear lines and discolouration.

11. Finally check your insurance and be sure your car is covered against fire or theft while in storage.

Here is a check list to help you prepare:

 

If you would like any further information or you have a project you would like to discuss please call Bob Heaton on 087 677 4202 or email us.