Maintenance and Rust Prevention

For the classic car enthusiast, nothing brings more pleasure than to be able admire and have others admire, their classic beauty. To keep an old car in pristine condition, it is important to maintain it properly. This would include starting and driving it with care, regular washing and polishing, changing the oil routinely and applying rust prevention waxes and oils.

It is important that you drive your classic car to help keep it in good condition. Tyres, seals and lubricants have a tendency to break down and dry up if a car is left to stand for long periods of time. If your classic car is not your regular form of transport, you need to make a point of driving it at least once or twice a month. Always start the engine and allow it to warm up before you drive down the road. A quick trip to the local shops and back will do.

Giving your car a regular wash will keep your classic in good condition. Allowing dirt and dust to build up isn't good for the exterior look or for the engine parts. Apply rust prevention coatings to all chrome parts. Give your leather or vinyl seats a good cleaning with protective sprays at least once or twice a year. Rub a protective wax onto a thoroughly cleaned and dried car body. This should not be done often as too much waxing can damage the paint.

As with all vehicles, it is important to change the oil regularly and don't let the fuel tank run dry. Oil will break down over a period of time and won't protect the engine as well as it should. Check with your local auto parts store for a fuel stabilizer additive. This helps to keep the fuel fresh and is especially beneficial when a classic car isn't driven often.

Weather conditions can have a negative impact on a classic car if it is not protected and maintained properly. This especially applies to areas where winters are harsh, such as in the UK where we have rain, snow, mud and salt gritted roads aplenty! If you can't store your classic car in a garage or under a carport, buy a car cover. Make sure it is a simple, lightweight cover that will allow your vehicle to "breathe." Heavy canvas or plastic tarps are not recommended because they can trap moisture and encourage rust.

Benefits of rust prevention

Dinitrol rust prevention for classic car applications offers many benefits:

Extends the working life of vehicle
Reduces costly repair work
Simple to use and easy to apply
Very effective - up to 4 years depending on environment
Increases re-sale value and makes it easier to sell
Does not wash off during cleaning (must follow guidelines)
Does not melt or drip in hot weather unlike some products

Contact Dinitrol for further information about our range of classic car rust treatments