Spring car show flyers are appearing at your local car spots and in your mailbox, so if showing your classic muscle car is on your mind, it is time to prepare your vintage vehicle! Here are a few tips to make sure your car is looking its best.
Check for rust.
• Visible rust can be sanded off with fine grit sandpaper and then blended with an abrasive cloth.
• Neutralize the sanded area with an oxide conversion fluid after rinsing/drying.
• Buff the area after drying and touch up with auto paint.
• Apply protective top coat to the newly painted area.
Clean and polish the exterior.
• Wash your vintage vehicle with cleaner specifically made for cars, do not use dish soap!
• Dull paint can be brightened with car polish before waxing.
• Wax your classic car for deep shine and added protection.
• Shine up any chrome elements with the appropriate chrome polish.
Clean the interior.
• Vacuum out any dust or debris.
• If you have any stains or spots on the interior, use an automotive carpet cleaner only after you’ve done a spot test to make sure the color won’t run or bleed.
• Use leather or vinyl cleaner on seats depending on what material you have in your car.
Clean the tires.
• Check that your tires are the appropriate type for your classic vehicle.
• Look for scuffs and curb marks.
• Use a tire cleaner to shine the black rubber.
• Use a white wall cleaner sparingly and be careful not to overspray.
Shine the glass.
• Newspaper works well as a substitute for paper towels in leaving a streak-free shine.
• If using cloths, make sure they are lint-free and soft.
• Household or auto glass cleaner can be used.
Nothing feels better than showing off your street rod in all of its polished and chromed glory! Make sure your collectible car is properly protected with the right Classic Auto Insurance policy. Classic Auto Insurance offers affordable coverage with benefits like roadside assistance and trip interruption to keep you on the road and on the show circuit.
At Classic Auto Insurance, we strive to offer convenient and reliable customer service to all of our clients. You can chat with our friendly customer service representatives on our website or get an instant classic auto insurance quote online.
Do you have any other special tips for preparing for a car show? Tell us about it in the comments below!
About the Author
Drew Yagodnik is Vice President of Classic Automobile Insurance Agency, Inc. Classic Automobile Insurance Agency has been protecting collector, classic and exotics since 1992.
