Get Your Stored Car Road Ready

Now that spring is here, it’s time to get your classic car out of storage and back on the road. You probably read your Chevy auto repair manual to make sure that your car is ready for driving after spending the winter in storage. However, here is a checklist to follow to make sure you have your classic car in top condition before going cruising.

1. The first thing you should do is check your stored car for leaks. You can do this by checking the floor under the car. If you see fluids, you may have a leak. Leaks can occur in any number of systems including the coolant system, power-steering system, engine, transmission, rear axle, or brakes. Make sure that you check all of these systems for leaks. Your Chevrolet electronic automotive repair manual can help you deal with any leaks that you find.

2. Next, you will need to drain the fuel tank, carburetor float bowls, and flush the fuel lines. Stored gasoline can go bad over time so it is important to change out the gasoline to make sure that your car doesn’t choke on its own fuel.

3. It is important to do a complete oil and filter change. Oil sitting in storage for long periods of time can collect water that will rust the inside of your engine.

4. After completing the oil change, you also need to drain, flush, and replace your coolant. As your car sits over a period of time, the anti-corrosion additives in your coolant can break down corrosion and rust in your coolant system. You don’t want these substances clogging your coolant system and causing your car to overheat down the road.

5. If your vehicle has been sitting for more than 90 days, you will need to remove the spark plugs and use an upper-cylinder lubricant inside of your cylinders. This will ensure that none of your piston rings are stuck. Before reinstalling your spark plugs, turn your engine over several times to help work in the oil that you squirted in the cylinders. When you replace the spark plugs, it is important to return them in the correct order. Some people prefer to write down the order before taking them out. You also need to be sure that the leads are reconnected correctly.

6. Brakes are arguably the most important part of any car. So, it’s imperative to make sure that your brakes are in good condition. Make sure you are checking the friction linings, drums, and rotors for leaks and functionality. Your brakes should be able to cleanly stop a spinning tire. You can test this by putting your car up on a jack and have someone step on the brake while you spin the tire. You should also lube your suspension while you are under the car.

7. Now it’s time to start your car. First, remove your air filter and spray a liberal amount of engine starter fluid into the mouth of the carburetor. With the air filter off, turn the car over. Don’t rev your engine; just allow the car to idle until it reaches operating temperature. Then, you should replace the air filter.

You’re now ready to take your car for a spin around the block. Just make it a short distance the first time in case there’s anything you missed. Once you get back home, you should give your car a wash and wax so it looks as good as it performs.

Author Bio: CDManuals.net sells electronic auto repair manuals including Chevy automotive repair manuals and Chevrolet electronic automotive repair manual for most older vehicles. Visit them at http://www.cdmanuals.net/ for great deals on your vehicle’s auto repair manual.

Category: Automotive
Keywords: Chevy automotive repair manuals,Chevrolet electronic automotive repair manual,electronic auto repair

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