Putting A Classic Car Into A Storage Unit: A Simple Guide
If you have a classic car that you rarely drive but would like to preserve, then why not keep it in a storage unit? It will be safe and protected, but it won't take up valuable garage space that you could be using for other projects and lawncare equipment. Storing a classic car in a self-storage facility is pretty simple, but there are a few tips you should follow to ensure the process goes smoothly and the car emerges in pristine condition.
Check to ensure the storage facility allows cars.
Some storage facilities allow renters to store cars in their units. Other do not allow cars for various liability-related reasons. There may be different regulations based on whether or not the car actually runs. So check with various facilities to get a good idea of which ones do and do not allow car storage before you make your choice.
Clean and preserve any leather.
Of all components in a classic car, the one that's likely to suffer the most in any sort of storage setting is the leather. It will crack if it gets too dry or mold if it gets too damp or warm. To prevent this type of damage, fully clean the leather. Then, apply a leather conditioner made specifically for leather upholstery. This will keep the leather moist to prevent cracking. Make sure you rub away any excess conditioner to prevent the leather from becoming too moist.
Drain the brakes, fuel tank, etc.
It's best to drain the fuel and all of the fluids from the car before putting it into storage. This way, you don't have to worry about fluids gumming up or leaking all over the storage unit. Do this on your own property rather than at the storage facility -- just in case something spills and makes a mess. This will mean you'll need to transport the car on a flatbed truck or a trailer rather than driving it to the storage facility, so make plans to rent this equipment if needed.
Store convertibles with the top up.
If your car is a soft-topped convertible, store it with the top all of the way up. If you store it with the top down, the material may shrink if it's exposed to any temperature or humidity fluctuations in storage.
Cover the car in flannel or cotton.
There are many different types of car covers on the market. For short-term storage, they all serve about the same function -- keeping dust off your car. However, if you're storing your car for more than a month or two, you absolutely need to invest in a cotton or flannel cover rather than a polyester or plastic one. A polyester or plastic cover will simply trap too much heat near the car, reducing air flow and causing the paint to peel. Cotton and flannel are more breathable, so they'll keep the car clean without risking other damage.
Keep the battery elsewhere.
To prevent leaks and a drained battery, remove the battery from the car and store it elsewhere. You could keep it in your garage and hooked up to a charger or maintainer so it's ready to put back in the car when you pull it out of storage.
Talk to your insurance company.
If your classic car is covered under an auto insurance policy, inform them of the car's change in location. Otherwise, they may deny a claim made if the car suffers damage in storage. If your car is not insured, it's wise to take out a policy before you move it into storage off your property. This will protect you financially if there's any sort of accident at the storage unit.
For more information about storing a car at a storage facility, talk with different facilities in your area, such as I-70 Self Storage, and ask if they allow car storage.