How to store a classic car in self storage
Anyone who owns a classic car will know how much joy can come from them but when it comes to keeping them safe that’s where the trouble can start. Today we will look at how you can store your classic car safely in self storage so you can continue to enjoy it for many years to come.
Why use self storage?
Firstly, you don’t have to use self-storage to store your classic car but it’s a very good option. Classic cars are expensive and more importantly their something that has a lot of sentimental value. Storing them in a garage or outside with a sheet over them is one way for them to get damaged or stolen very quickly.
Self storage eliminates many of the above problems but only when you know how to store your car correctly.
Choosing the right storage unit for your car
When choosing the right storage unit for your classic car you will need to make sure the unit is large enough to fit your car. You will also need to make sure that the storage company that you use is willing to hold your car too, not all storage companies are suitable for this.
Getting the right size storage unit will also mean that you don’t have to squeeze yourself out of the car when it comes time to park it or remove it from the storage unit.
When you have a unit large enough for storage of your classic car you will then need to make sure that the unit is climate controlled. Weather in the UK is constantly changing and these changes can mean that your storage unit could get very hot or cold. A climate-controlled storage unit will stop your car from getting damaged due to fluctuations in the weather.
Preparing your classic car for storage
You can’t just put your car into self storage if you want it to last for many years, you will need to prepare your classic car beforehand. To prepare your classic car for storage you will need to clean the car thoroughly inside and outside as any grease, dirt or oils will cause damage long term.
It’s also a good idea to change the oil and oil filter and some cars may need to add fuel stabiliser to the tank to stop the fuel from degrading over time.
When your car is clean you should then wrap it in a car cover that’s designed for your model car, this will ensure that the cover fits correctly to stop any dirt from getting inside.
Removing the car battery and using a battery tender
When your car is in your storage unit you should remove the battery from your car and connect it to a battery tender. A battery tender is a product used for maintaining a car battery’s charge, sometimes these are called trickle chargers.
A trickle charger as the name suggests sends a steady charge to maintain your car’s battery when it isn’t in use. Using a battery tender will maintain the car’s charge which will help prevent damage caused by a depleted battery.
Lift the car to protect its suspension and wheels
When your car is moving around daily you don’t have to worry about the rest of the car putting weight on the wheels but when you leave your car in the same spot for months on end you do have to consider this. Lifting your classic off the ground will protect its wheels, suspension and other components from damage.
Car jacks are useful for this, but make sure you know what you are doing so that your car is secured correctly and not cause injury to yourself or others.
With your car off the ground, you can then add wheel covers to the car, this will once again protect your car against dust and debris.
Maintain your car
Putting your classic car into storage and forgetting it is better than leaving your car outside, but ideally, you should check up on your car periodically to make sure it isn’t damaged.
Storage quote
If you need storage for any of your beloved items, at Urban Locker we provide affordable self storage solutions in London and its surrounding areas. We have storage in East London and Islington. If you would like to see how much it costs to store any of your items get in touch today.
