2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 15:44
The temperatures are also luring owners of classic cars back onto the streets. Before the first outing, however, the classic automobile that has been mothballed over the winter must first be whipped into shape.
With the first spring sun beckons. In addition to lovers and strollers, many old and youngtimers also come out of the "holes" with their vehicles. Anyone who owns an old darling should take a few tips to heart so that there is no rude awakening on the first trip.
Check fill levels
The first look before putting the car back into operation should be on the license plate and the vehicle documents. If the main inspection (HU) or exhaust emission inspection (AU) has expired, the car may not be driven on public roads, otherwise there is a risk of a fine. The authorities don't turn a blind eye to historic vehicles. If the car was temporarily out of service over the winter, re-registration will only be granted once the relevant test certificates are available from TÜV.
Before starting the engine for the first time, the levels of operating fluids such as engine oil and brake fluid must be checked and topped up if necessary. "Oldies" in particular often acknowledge a lack of lubrication or cooling with major engine damage. A look at the garage floor can't hurt either. If telltale stains have formed under the vehicle over the winter, this is an unmistakable indication of leaks and leaks in hoses and lines, which should be examined in more detail immediately.
Refrain from "organs"
The next step is to examine the interior of the vehicle and the headliner for mold and dirt. Experience has shown that water and soap are the best cleaners in most places. If you are the lucky owner of a historic convertible with a fabric top, the roof hood should be examined for burst seams or cracks that can be traced back to the temperature differences in winter. Otherwise the first trip can quickly become an involuntarily wet "pleasure".
Once the external check has been carried out, the engine starts and with it the exciting question: "Does he or does he not want to?" The starter battery, which was disconnected before mothballing and ideally connected to a trickle charger, must of course first be reconnected. In terms of polarity, the old rule of thumb "minus (black) first off and back on last" applies to prevent a short circuit. If the technology was healthy before "mothballing", according to the experience of the ADAC classic car experts, the engine will start again after the second or third attempt at the latest. "Continuing organizing" usually does not help, but in the worst case can even damage the "catalytic converter" in vehicles with a catalytic converter.
Check tires for cracks
The first trip with the classic always goes to the nearest gas station to measure the tire pressure with the tester. Even after months of rest, the tires should not have lost any visible air. If this is the case, this indicates a creep plate as a result of rubber that has become porous. If the tire pressure was increased before storage to avoid "flat spots", as experts recommend, it must be brought back to normal.
During the first attempts at braking, rust film on brake discs and drums can increase the stopping distance. Crunching noises are not tragic. By carefully braking on safe terrain, these deposits can be removed quickly and nothing stands in the way of the first spring trip in the historic car. (mid)
