Author: PittLane

Do you love your classic car but miss the comfort and features of a modern vehicle? Why not consider enhancing your driving experience with steering upgrades.

Does your car still use a steering box? Have you thought about upgrading to a rack-and-pinion steering system?

Rack and pinion steering offers a significant improvement in precision and road feel. And good news! Thanks to its compact, lightweight, and efficient design it can be fitted to a wide range of vehicles.

Another option is retrofitting power steering. There are several companies that make kits to help bring a modern touch to classic charm. 

Electric power steering is a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts for its compactness and minimal installation changes, while hydraulic power steering offers a more traditional solution. This, however requires additional space and maintenance for components like pumps, hoses, and reservoirs.   

A steering wheel change can also make a difference; older vehicles have slimmer but bigger wheels to counter the lack of power assisted steering. These can often be flimsy and if considering a power steering upgrade we would recommend looking into a more ergonomic and compact steering wheel too. 

Modern tyres are another worthwhile consideration. There are companies that offer a classic look but feature modern compounds and construction for improved performance.

Lastly, regular steering maintenance is essential; checking components like tie rods, ball joints, and bushings can help address wear and tear that might make steering feel unnecessarily heavy.

Whether you’re looking to address existing issues or simply want to upgrade, we’re here to help bring your vision to life.

Contact us today to get started!

First off all,

Happy New Year to all our customers!

We’re in the middle of winter now, bringing cold weather and frosty mornings. Whether you’re braving the salt-gritted, wet roads of the UK this season or storing your car until spring, there’s no better time to take care of the work your vehicle needs.

Why not use the seasonal downtime to address essential or overdue repairs, rather than waiting until spring or summer when you’ll want to enjoy every moment on the road? Let us handle the maintenance, so your car is ready to perform when the season changes.

One way to combat the wet and salty roads is to protect your cars underside with a rust proofing treatment. We use Lanoguard, a premium underbody rust protection product that not only prevents rust but also stops existing rust from spreading. For more information on getting your car treated, give us a call or send us an email today.

From carburettor rebuilds and suspension upgrades to engine overhauls or even just a service, winter is the perfect season to get your classic car ready for peak performance.

If you’re planning to store your car for the winter, here are some essential tips from our team:

1. Fuel System
   • Fill the fuel tank completely and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from going stale. A full tank minimizes air space, reducing the risk of rust forming inside.
   • Run the car for a few minutes to allow the stabiliser to circulate throughout the fuel system.
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2. Coolant System
   • Check your antifreeze levels to prevent the coolant system from freezing, which can cause splits or bursting in the system.
3. Brakes
   • Avoid engaging the handbrake as it can seize if left for long periods. Use wheel chocks instead.
4. Battery Maintenance
   • Check the battery’s condition. Disconnect it or use a trickle charger to preserve its life.
   • Consider installing a battery isolation switch for easier maintenance in the future.
5. Tires
   • Overinflate the tires by about 10 PSI to reduce the risk of flat spots forming during prolonged storage.

If you have any questions or need assistance preparing your car for winter storage, please do get in touch!

Don’t wait—let us help you make the most of the off-season!

As the kids head back to school, the nights grow longer, and grey clouds start to fill the sky, it’s clear that autumn has arrived. Is your classic car ready for the change in seasons? Don’t worry. We’ve put together a handy guide to help you prepare your beloved vehicle for the cooler, wetter months ahead. Here’s some of what you should pay particular attention to:

Tyres

With wetter roads and potentially slippery conditions, it’s crucial to check the tread depth and overall condition of your tyres. Ensure they have sufficient grip and are properly inflated to handle the unpredictable autumn weather.

Brakes

Just as we mentioned with the tyres, the wetter, more slippery roads of autumn mean your classic car will need a greater stopping distance and a bit more care compared to its modern counterparts. Keep in mind that your classic might not have the advanced braking systems found in newer vehicles, so it’s important to drive with extra caution. Your classic car deserves that extra bit of sympathy to keep both you and your cherished vehicle safe on the road.

Battery

The chill of autumn can be tough on car batteries, especially for classic cars. To avoid unexpected stalls or starting issues, it’s wise to check your battery’s voltage and charge as the temperature drops. If your vintage beauty won’t be hitting the road frequently, consider disconnecting the battery to preserve its life or use a trickle charger to keep it maintained while it’s parked.

Fluids

As the temperatures drop, make sure your car’s fluids are topped up and in good condition. This includes engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Check for any signs of leaks.  Consider allowing your car a little more sympathy as the chill sets in to allow lubricants to cycle around in your engine before setting off.

Lights

With shorter days and longer nights, your car’s lighting system becomes even more critical. Inspect all exterior and interior lights, including headlights, tail lights, indicators, and brake lights. Replace any bulbs that are dimming or burnt out, and ensure your lights are clean and free of any obstructions.

Bodywork

Autumn’s wet and windy weather can take a toll on your car’s bodywork. Give your classic car a thorough wash and wax to protect the paint from moisture and road debris. Pay close attention to areas prone to rust and consider applying a rust inhibitor to vulnerable spots. Regularly cleaning and checking your car’s undercarriage can also prevent corrosion as the season progresses.

With a little help from Pitt Lane Classic Car Restoration, your car will be ready to face the challenges of autumn and allow you to enjoy the last of the great driving days.