How to Store Collectable, Antique, and Classic Automobiles

Space in the garage is at a premium and often the clutter that accumulates over the years infringes on the space where the family’s collectable, antique, or classic car or truck resides. The danger is the vehicle could be damaged from falling tools, boxes, and children’s toys.

Protection

The best way to protect the valuable vehicle is to give it a space all its own, where it will not be harmed by someone’s negligence, accidents, or severe weather, storm damage, and the sun’s paint-damaging rays, and invading pests.
Today, self-storage is an affordable and convenient way to ensure your vehicle is protected year-round and ready to drive when you want it.
But storing a vehicle for a long period of time until the weather is vehicle friendly requires the owner to take precautions to ensure the vehicle and its fluids will not be harmed.

Storage Considerations

Oil, water, and fuel, must be addressed for long storage times and the battery should be placed on a trickle charger to maintain its charge.
Make sure the engine oil and brake fluid are at their recommended levels. If the car sits for a year or longer, you’ll need to change the oil and oil filter before taking it on the road because oil can break down if it sits for a long period of time.
Ensure that the engine coolant has the proper mix of distilled water and anti-freeze to protect the radiator and engine.
Fuel is a concern if it sits too long. It also can break down and cause the engine to run poorly or even fail to start. Fuel stabilizers are available as an additive to help give extra life to gasoline and should be used for long storage times.

Tire Care

If the vehicle will sit unused for a long period of time, it should rest on jack stands so it does not sit on its tires, which will be flat spotted over time and need to be replaced.

It’s OK to Visit

It’s not good for a vehicle to be stored for long periods unless the fluids are removed and the car is covered. But stopping by your storage unit to start the vehicle once a month is good policy.
Albuquerque Self Storage can advise you about long-term storage precautions.