DIY Network

1962 Ford Thunderbird: Long-Term Storage Tips, Pt. 2 From "Classic Car Restoration" episode DCR-302

In this segment, host Steve Magnante is joined by auto-restoration expert Kevin Tetz for some additional pro-tips for the long-term storage and "resurrection" of automobiles.

Materials may include:

Desiccant
Moth crystals
Rubber or weather-seal conditioner
Convertible-top conditioner
Baking soda

Note: This is a summary of steps included in the automotive restoration procedures shown in this episode of Classic Car Restoration. These are general guidelines for restoration procedures on this particular make and model of vehicle, and for the level of restoration selected for this project. There may be variations in procedures depending on model, condition of vehicle, level of restoration undertaken and the types of replacement parts or upgrade kits selected. Always follow proper safety precautions, and read and follow manufacturer's guidelines, diagrams and safety notices that come with any replacement parts or kit that you select.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F
	Figure G

Kevin Tetz is an expert when it comes to auto restoration. Here are some of his tips for pickling a vehicle prior to long-term storage -- specifically with respect to the vehicle's interior, weather-stripping and convertible top.

• When placing a vehicle in long-term storage, Kevin advises using a desiccant-style moisture absorber (figure A), which absorbs moisture out of the air and stores it inside the desiccant crystals. Simply follow the directions that come with the desiccant, and place it open inside the vehicle to help control moisture and reduce the possibility of mold, mildew and musty odors.

• You can also use an open container of baking soda inside the vehicle to absorb odors -- just as many people do inside their refrigerators. You can pour baking soda onto the carpet and then vacuum it up to help eliminate stale odors.

• Moth balls or moth crystals (figure B) are a good idea for preventing insect pests from invading or damaging a vehicle in storage. Avoid pouring the crystals directly onto the carpet or seat surfaces. Instead, pour them into a tray container, and place the tray in a convenient spot inside the vehicle.

• Spring-scented soaps placed inside a closed vehicle will act as a rodent deterrent, and help prevent damage by rodent infestation. Simply place a new bar of scented soap on a piece of plastic, then place it beneath a seat to help drive away small four-legged pests.

• It's important to use a conditioner on the weather stripping before storing a vehicle to prevent the stripping from drying out, cracking and deteriorating. Simply apply the conditioner according to the manufacturer's instructions, and gently wipe it in with a soft cloth, making sure that it absorbs into the rubber (figure C).

  Important: For weather stripping, use a rubber conditioner or a conditioner specifically formulated for weather stripping. Avoid using a silicon-based or tire conditioner. Using the wrong type of dressing may actually dry-rot your weather stripping.

• Tip: Once you've conditioned your weather-stripping, close the car's doors only to the first click (figure D) rather than closing the doors the whole way. If the stripping is collapsed fully for long periods of time, it may become permanently compressed and therefore less effective at blocking out the elements. Treating the stripping in this way will help keep your weather stripping supple and firm.

• For storing a hard-top vehicle in a sheltered area, raise the windows partially, leaving a slight crack to allow air circulation in the vehicle. Similarly, in a convertible vehicle like our T-bird, avoid raising the windows all the way and compressing the weather seal at the edge of the convertible top. Instead, leave the windows in an "almost-up" position to protect the seal and allow air circulation (figure E).

• Consider using contact cleaner or switch cleaner (available at electronics stores) to clean and protect any power-window, power-seat or ignition switches while the vehicle is being stored.

• Always store a convertible vehicle with the top up to maintain the top in a wrinkle-free state. Once wrinkles are established in a convertible top, they are extremely difficult to eliminate.

• Before placing the vehicle into storage (and when bringing it out of storage), wash the convertible top to remove dust and dirt, and apply a vinyl-top conditioner (figure F).

• You may want to consider storing your vehicle on jack-stands to help prevent spring fatigue and preserve your vehicle's suspension and tires. Also consider placing a plastic sheet as a moisture-barrier beneath the vehicle (figure G). This will help prevent moisture condensation from rusting your car from the bottom. This is especially important if you are storing your vehicle in a dirt-floor environment, but is also advisable on concrete floors which may "sweat" and allow moisture build-up beneath the car.

  Tip: A sheet of clean cardboard placed beneath the vehicle will aid in detecting any leaks that may occur while the vehicle is in storage.

  Avoid covering the vehicle with a plain plastic sheet. A cover like this will essentially perform the reverse of the moisture barrier beneath the car, trapping moisture between the plastic and the car surface. This condition will promote deterioration and rust. Instead of plastic sheeting, invest in a good quality car-cover that "breathes." A variety of car-covers (multi-purpose or vehicle-specific) are available from auto centers and auto-parts specialists.
  

RESOURCES :

Classic Car Restoration Guide: The Complete Illustrated Step-By-Step Manual
Model: 1850108900
Author: Lindsay Porter
Order this book from Amazon.com
Haynes Publishing

Classic Car Restorer's Handbook: Restoration Tips and Techniques for Owners and Restorers of Classic and Collectible Automobiles
1557881944
Jim Richardson
(November 1994)
To order this title from Amazon, click here.
H.P. Books

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Trouble-Free Car Care
Author: Dan Ramsey
ISBN: 0028635833
Alpha Books

Auto Repair for Dummies
Author: Deanna Sclar
ISBN: 0764550896

GUESTS :

Kevin Tetz
paintucation.com
Paintucation.com specialized in automotive body, paint and restoration services and instructional restoration videos.