Common Questions
I have just bought a Classic Car but I would like advice
If you are new to Classic Car ownership or now own a new marque of car, you might well have some questions. Owners Clubs and the internet are of value but sometimes are the very source of misinformation. We are happy to offer advice and answer any questions you may have. Why do my wire wheels still wobble after being balanced ? Why can I smell petrol ? Do they all drive like this ?
Should I get an MOT done?
Classic cars over 40 years old require no annual inspection, called an MOT. In the event of a road traffic collision the insurance company will be asking when the vehicles were last inspected.
We recommend all owners to have their vehicle tested. If there is nothing wrong, it will pass what is a very basic inspection.
We recommend all owners to have their vehicle tested. If there is nothing wrong, it will pass what is a very basic inspection.
Modern Petrol. Can I use it ?
Can I run my Classic on E10, E5 or unleaded ? The short answer is yes. Will it damage my car? The short answer is that depends. It is known that the composition of modern fuel can cause some materials used in older fuel systems to degrade, causing fuel leaks or the malfunctioning of carburetors and fuel pumps. Such problems are slow to appear but in recent years we are seeing a lot more of them.
Are you concerned about running your car on “Un-leaded Petrol” because it might damage your engine ? You can run any mature car on unleaded without doing any harm. If you intend to do many 1000`s of miles some remedial action could be taken.
A second issue can exist with modern fuel. Some Classic cars are parked up and not used for long periods of time. Modern fuel has a tendency of not performing well if left. Starting issues and poor running are typical of a car without a supply of fresh fuel.
My car has been parked up. Can you help?
Over the years I have helped many owners get their vehicles back on the road.
My car has let me down. Can you help?
We will not come out to you but advise your breakdown service to drop it with us and we will sort it for you.
My insurance company has asked for a vehicle valuation.
We can supply you with a written valuation having inspected you car.
Battery Problems
Car batteries perform best when they are used. Being charged and discharged charge through use, and again being recharged as the engine runs, makes for a happy battery. A battery which loses all of its charge and possibly left in that state, may not take a charge. If it does charge, it may not perform as well as before. The advice is to start your car regularly to charge the battery or put a trickle charger on it. If you have twin 6v batteries on your car, one of the two, which is low in charge, will have a negative impact upon both. It is always best to replace them in pairs OR fit a single 12v item.
How much do you charge?
Our terms and conditions are advertised at our premises. We advise customers of the potential cost prior to starting any work. Parts as supplied are charged at their RRP. Although specialists, our rates are less than main agents, some of whom come to us.