Summer is here and while the hot weather can be enjoyed, it presents a certain set of challenges for a classic car enthusiast. For example, breaking down on the road because of an overheated engine is something nobody wants to go through. This can be especially annoying if you’re in the middle of a road trip, so you’ll want to make sure you can prevent this from happening. We’ve created a guide on how to stop your classic car from overheating this summer.
Carry out regular checks
You can save a lot of money by carrying out regular checks before summer arrives. This means inspecting the drive belt, fans, radiator and other car components. A useful component to check is the temperature gauge, as it can act as an early-warning system. It’ll tell you if your engine is hotter than normal. By checking your classic car regularly, you’ll be able to take the necessary precautions months in advance.
Bring plenty of coolant
One of the reasons your car might overheat is because of low coolant. Before you set off on your journey, make sure to fill up the radiator with plenty of coolant. Like other fluids, coolant has a lifespan and it’ll leave behind deposits in your radiator, clogging it up. Replacing the coolant regularly will keep it fresh, protecting against overheating and corrosion.
Inspect your drive belt
As a drive belt is responsible for controlling other engine components, it needs to be looked after. If the drive belt breaks then it’ll affect the water pump, stopping coolant from being circulated. If you believe your drive belt is damaged then it’s a good idea to get it replaced immediately.
Clear out the radiator
All kinds of debris can build up in front of the radiator. Left unchecked, the debris can block the airflow to your cooling system and damage the engine. You can check for blockages by disconnecting the radiator’s lower hose and running water through the top. Providing the water enters and exits the radiator at a similar speed, then there shouldn’t be any blockage.
Check on the radiator cap
The radiator cap could be another potential cause of overheating. If the cap isn’t fastened properly then it could affect system pressure. The radiator cap has a spring and if it’s damaged you’ll need to get it fixed.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to make the most of your classic car this summer.
