Motoring-Storingyour Classiccar

234 Motoring Storing your Classic Car this Winter

7 Tips from Toyota Master Technician Graham Bothamley

With rain lashing down and gales blowing Britain’s classic car owners are putting their cherished vehicles away for winter; but what are the pitfalls to avoid which can lead to heartbreak and big bills when you come to retrieve it next Spring? Graham Bothamley has more than a hundred Toyota and Lexus vehicles in his care, from 1960s examples to new cars just delivered. Here are Graham’s top tips: 1. Put your car up on axle stands if possible, it really helps to keep it off the ground, especially to protect your tyres. If this isn’t possible pump your tyres up to the highest safe level you can. 2. Fit a “trickle charger” to the battery, ideally one which conditions as well as charges. 3. Clean your vehicle inside and out before storing, using a good-quality wax on the exterior. Invest in a car cover, ideally a breathable one. 4. Ensure the hand brake is left off. If the handbrake is applied the mechanism can seize during storage. However, it’s vital to make sure that the wheels are firmly “chocked” if you’re not using axle stands so that car doesn’t move. 5. Leave your windows slightly open to prevent condensation which can damage upholstery and other surfaces, and allow mould to breed. Remember to remove anything in the vehicle which could rot or cause smells. 6. Ensure the vehicle’s antifreeze level is at the recommended maximum – enough to prevent engine freezing. 7. Finally, consider placing a humane rodent trap close to the vehicle and check it every few days. It’s amazing how much damage one little mouse can cause if it decides to build a nest in your engine or wheel arches and feast on your wiring!