All it takes is one exposed wire to touch against something in your car for a fire to start, I don’t know if you’ve ever experienced a car fire that your involved in, but I promise about the time that it happens you will wonder how cool those parts are that you bought, when you should have replaced the wiring.

There are a few options when it comes to doing this, you can either have a, electrician come in and build you a custom harness, or you can go to a company that builds replacement harnesses for your car, like painless wiring harnesses.

No matter how you choose to look at it, the wiring in your classic car is one of the most important systems in the car, no it’s not a cool custom part that you can show of, but it will sure save all of those custom parts, and your restoration from going up in flames.

I always suggest to replace your wiring harness when you restore a car, I look at safety as the most important thing in a restoration, I want you to love your car when the restoration is complete, but I always put your safety a head of everything else.

Sometimes you may be able to repair the wiring in a car also, but this is usually not going to happen, as people over the years of the cars life will hack in to the wiring to install one thing or another, and every time they do this it degrades your harness a little more.

You really are playing Russian roulette with your classic car if you don’t pay close attention to the wiring in it, I know that it can get expensive to play with the wiring, but it will save your car, and possibly your life.

If you decide not to replace the wiring, it can take hours, if not days to track down problems in the electrical system, and that will with out a doubt cost a lot more then just replacing the entire wiring harness, although there are some cars that you can’t get a wiring harness for.

If you have one of these cars, you may have no choice but to repair the harness that came in the car, or have an electrician build you a custom one, even if this is the case, don’t let it stop you from being safe on the restoration of your classic car.

You make sure that everything else is done exactly the way that you want it, your wiring should be no acception to the rule, you need to make sure that it’s done the right way rather your doing the restoration work yourself, or your having a shop do it for you.

This is an area where a lot of people try to save money, do yourself a favor and don’t do it, you can didn’t come form the factory with cheesy wiring harness, and it should not have one after you finish restoring it, everything should be perfect when that job is done.

How To Fix The Wiring In Your Classic Car

My area of interest is classic cars, and muscle cars, but in the past a few years I have become increasingly concerned about our country.

I have been in the automotive industry in one form, or another for about 30 years, and I started on the internet to help the automotive industry with a place that they could afford to advertise their businesses.

Automotive Advertising

Car Restoration

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Primarily the main reason why anyone would even join a classic club car is to get maintenance and technical advice from all the experts who normally reside in such clubs or even sometimes even from fellow members who have had similar experiences. The club never the less gives you a feeling of importance since from the moment you step at the door you destined to feel like a member of an exclusive club which is true any way. If future car bazaars or road shows are within your vicinity then you will be amongst the first people to know about if not one of the organizers already.

However classic car clubs are not all about fun and games as many are known to be proud sponsors or contributors to charity events. This is sure to appeal to your sensitive side as well.

Car clubs however do tend to have particular set of rules from club to club which makes some more flexible than other when it comes to their laws. These clubs come as a full set as they also have a president, secretary and even a treasurer who all work as volunteers. Depending on the size of the club, additional officials may be called for either running a website or even printing the clubs official club magazine.

These clubs are not free at all so you should expect to pay a small fee which is normally not more than hundred dollars which could be per year or even per month depending on the clubs preference. The money is usually spent on expenses such as insurance, website maintenance, membership merchandise and even postage. The club merchandise could be T-shirts, logos, jackets or even hats.

Some clubs are known to allow members to join more than one similar club so it s best to ensure that you know such rules in advance to avoid being kicked out. Also it is important to recognize that some clubs meet mainly on a monthly basis but the agenda on hand normally determines the attendance schedule.

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Launched early this year, the company offers a directory of about 120 classic rental companies in 12 countries. These companies have more than 1200 cars and every week, more cars are added in these companies. The site gives one a wide range of classics to choose from. One can opt for an Alfa or even a Veyron and the advantage is that the location of the customer is not a hindrance. It covers several locations including Australia and even Vegas.

What is more, the Classic Car Hire World allows one to select the car to hire by country, make and even by vehicle type. Apart from that, this site also offers an intensive events calendar. As is evident from this site, one can establish that it is easier to find a classic in Europe that in the US. This is because most European countries have a wide and better selection of classic cars whereas US on the other hand has more exotic cars that the classics.

These beautiful cars have gained popularity in weddings. Most people would like to use them in their wedding. Therefore, it is always important to do proper research and book in advance since not so many companies offer them. This is because they are expensive and maintaining them is also a huge task. However, it is common to find classic cars for your wedding in limousine rental companies. Additionally, some wedding transportation companies also hire them out.

However, options may be limited in such companies since they do not deal with classics exclusively. Nevertheless, one could also look for these vehicles in rental clubs for classic car. For instance, the Antique Automobile Club of America might have a variety of classic cars available for hire. Getting one to hire in these clubs may be difficult because several owners are normally restricted from using their cars for commercial purposes.
 
All the same there are certain classic cars that are easy to find and popularly used in weddings. These include the Essex Super Six, Pontiac Bonneville, as well as Rolls Royce Silver Cloud. Still, The Ford Model T as well as the Ford Model A are also easily available. Therefore one may only find it challenging to get a classic to hire if they are looking for a different model than the ones aforementioned.

Further still, the Classic Car Hire World makes it easy for individuals to get the vintage cars that are not available locally. Some of the rare classics one can get from this site include the 1962 Jaguar XKE Convertible as well as the 2007 Lamborghini Gallardo.

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Apart from that, there are also other classic car auctions such as the Barret Jackson collector car event. This event goes for a week allowing enthusiasts to view the variety of classic cars in the market and buy what they want from the collection. The first day is a Ford family value day and children under 12 years of age are granted free entry. His day also marks the opening of the Vendors, gates and sponsor display.

The second day opens up the Automobilia auction as well as the collector car auction. Designer fashion shows are also held on this day. This includes showcasing of garage kids, Dillard as well as Roxanne’s couture. This week long event runs through to Sunday and visitors are allowed to bid for the cars of their choice in the Automobilia auction as well as the collector car auction.

Automobilia, as organized by Barret Jackson features the showcase of authentic automobile. This event involves the showcasing of various vehicles and auto parts. Some of these include hood mascots, gas pumps, transportation toys as well as garage relics. These are some of the autos that are unique and bear incredible dealership signs. What is more, the vehicles showcased in this event are the ones that are usually hard to find. For this reason, they are normally sold to highest bidder at No Reserve.

Held at the Palm Beach, the event this year is intended to feature the Borg collection. Therefore all the Borg enthusiasts must not miss this. Apart from that, enthusiasts should note that before the Barret – Jackson Classic Car auction, the automobilia auction is held every day at the main auction stage. Interested visitors also needed to note that the bidder registration goes for 25 dollars.

Further still, the Muscle Car Auction also showcases a variety of classic cars. Some of these include the AMX, AMC, Chrysler, Dodge, Chevrolet, Buick, Ford and Mercury. Apart from that, they also showcase such classic cars as Pontiac, Oldsmobile, and Plymouth as well as Diecast Muscle cars. All these vehicles are usually lined up for auction therefore anyone interested in one of these should visit the Muscle Car Auction.

The 2010 Barret Jackson auction also has a variety of classics lined up for auction. These include the Thunderbird which is a 1995 FORD two door COUPE. In addition to that, there is the Camaro IROC Z, a 1988 Chevrolet with a coupe as well as Super Eagle, a 1959 Cushman motor scooter. The Seville, a 1982 four door Sedan Cadillac will also be present not forgetting to mention the Electra 25, a 1969 four door hardtop BUICK.

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A narrowed down definition refers to a classic car as one that has been designed with elegant styling, fine workmanship built between 1925 and 1948 and exceptional engineering. According to the Classic Car Club of America, an antique car is a fine and extraordinary motor that was designed between 1925 and 1948. Further still, some cars that were designed after 1948 are considered modern classics.

Generally, modern classics refer to vehicles that are older but relate to the modern cars to some degree. These are cars that are between 15 and 25 years. What is more, modern classics still refers to vehicles that are collectible not considering their age. For instance, the Porsche 944 is classified as a modern classic. Still, these cars can be separated from antiques and vintage cars due to their styling.

Therefore, some of the characteristic designs popular for this gorgeous cars include removable fenders, headlights as well as trunks. Apart from that, a vintage car has a vertical grill treatment. For instance, such large vehicles as Duensberg as well as Pierce – Arrow together with small vehicles like MGTC usually have traditional lines and are considered classic. Apart from that, a CCCA is also considered a classic even though it was created within the classic period of design.

Further still, these gems can be identified by their lack of safety features. They are not designed with seat belts, rollover protection or even crumple zones. Apart from that, it is also common to find that this car has poor handling characteristics such as the steering and the suspension. In addition, the brake performance of a classic car is also poor as compared to the current brake performance standards. This means that drivers using classic cars have to be more careful while on the road. That is why some regions prohibit the use of classic cars while some only recommend rare use.

In spite of the poor safety characteristics in vintage cars, it is not common to see them involved in accidents. However, today classic car owners are recommended to retrofit their vehicles with seat belts. Therefore one can also identified classic cars with retro-style. They may have seat belts that ate color coded using chromed buckles and they may be 2 – point or 3 – point. Apart from that, classic cars can also be fitted with modern tires so as to enhance their handling.

In some regions, like the UK, antique cars designed earlier than January 1, 1973 are exempt from annual tax vehicle excise duty. Therefore, these cars have a ‘historical vehicle’ label on their license disc on the windscreen.

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Classic car rental companies and web sites dedicated to matching owners of classics with those interested in leasing them for a few days are thriving. From America to Europe and beyond, these businesses are providing people with a chance to make their dreams come true at least for a little while.

Private owners of classic cars are getting involved in this movement for a few very good reasons. First off, rentals help offset their own costs. Secondly, private owners might not always have the time to drive their own fleet of classic cars. Renting them out ensures they are run at least once in a while, which is good for keeping vehicles in tiptop condition.

Should you want to get behind the wheel of a classic Corvette or tool around in a genuine Model T Ford, you can do so if you find the right rental company. Here are a few things to expect from the rental car experience when that rental happens to be a classic:

A need to research companies well in advance – Classic car rental companies and exchanges that work with private owners are becoming quite popular, but that does not necessarily mean they are available in every city, state or country. If you want to rent a classic for your next vacation, research the options where you are going before you go. It is also a good idea to check into the reputation of the company and the quality of cars delivered.

A need for reservations – While it is certainly feasible to stroll into an airport and rent a standard car without a reservation, vying for a classic can take a little more planning. This is especially so with exchanges that might need to contact private owners to arrange for a vehicle rental. Do find a company well in advance and put dibs in on a few makes and models of interest.

A higher rental fee – The pricing on rental classics can range rather widely based on the exact car in question. You can, however, count on paying a bit more to drive a piece of history than you might have to shell out for a new rental. The price is well worth living the dream though.

A requirement to have insurance – This will vary from country to country, but you can count on having to already have or secure some form of insurance to cover your time in the car.

Just because you have not been able to buy a classic of your own just yet does not mean you cannot enjoy the feel of sitting behind the wheel. Try renting a classic the next time your vacation rolls around. You could be in for the ride of your life.

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Sporty, fast, compact and adorable, the 541S Jensen is a two-door grand tourer that was completely hand built in an era when mass production was well under way.  Its design is quite similar to Aston Martins, Porches and Jaguars in appearance, but it has a few claims to fame that are all its own. The 541S was the very first British car to boast seatbelts as standard. It also came with a number of other safety features, as well. This model was outfitted with a fire extinguisher, a first-aid kit, Dunlop disc brakes, a Motorola and even a padded windscreen surround.

While safety features were paramount with the 541S, this Jensen boasts a number of other unique design perks. The car has front seat arm rests that are adjustable. It also has a Bevelift jack that is meant to be used through the floor so the car can be lifted without a motorist being exposed to the elements.

The 541S Jensen was produced by Jensen Motors Limited, between 1960 and 1963. This sports car was predated by the Jensen 541R and followed up with the CV8. The 541S line had a total of 127 cars made with two engine types, a 5358 cc V8 produced by Chrysler and a 3993 cc straight-6. It came as either a four-speed automatic or a four-speed manual with overdrive. It is said only 22 manual drive transmissions rolled off the factory floor before production on the model ceased.

Although the 541S offered many things other makes and models did not, it gained a reputation of being a car that was slow to accelerate. While this might not seem like a big deal, it was for buyers of sports cars. Unfortunately, the manual version of the car was not used for testing. Owners today say the four-speed manual with overdrive offers more than enough in the zip department.

Jensen Motors operated with a headquarters in West Bromwich, England, from 1934 to 1976 when it went bankrupt. The company was known for its sports cars and commercial vehicles. While the 541S was not a hit with buyers, the company did have its share of standout vehicles during its multi-decade run. In addition to its own models, Jensen also collaborated with Austin-Healey and Volvo on a few vehicles. It was partially responsible for the Austin A40 and the Volvo P1800.

Classic car enthusiasts with an eye for the rare and unusual might find the unusual 541S Jensen is well worth another look. While the automatic transmission version of this model lacks in the pep department, the manual twin does not. Regardless, both versions are considered an unusual find in these days of mass production.

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Dubbed one of the “Top Ten Gearhead Destinations in the United States” by MSNBC in 2007, this museum pays homage to the cars in the Cord, Auburn and Duesenberg lines. The museum has on display more than 120 cars ranging in production date from 1894 to 1999. Housed in the old Auburn Automobile Company national headquarters, the museum has had its doors open since 1974.

While many people are aware of the history of American auto giants out of Detroit, the story of these three lines is lesser known. Auburn was known for its affordable cars. Cord was famed for its innovations. Duesenberg provided the wheels many Hollywood stars tooled around in.

The history of the three lines all came together in Auburn, which is why the museum focuses keenly on the trio. The Auburn Automobile Company produced vehicles out of its Indiana headquarters from 1900 to 1936. During the course of the company’s history, it also picked up the Cord and Duesenberg lines. Auburn itself was responsible for such vehicles as the 1929 8-90 Speedster and the 1935 851. The Cord line was manufactured by Auburn from the late 1920s and into the 1930s. Deusenbrg was a standalone company that built luxury cars along the line of the Rolls Royce. This highly popular company was founded in 1913 and was bought by E.L. Cord in 1926, cementing its ties to Auburn.

Plans for the museum date back to 1969 when the nonprofit Auburn Automotive Heritage Inc. was formed. The group had its sights sets on honoring the Deusenberg, Cord and Auburn lines. Its initial statement purpose was to “discover, procure and preserve whatever may be related to the history of the automotive industry in the City of Auburn and County of DeKalb, Indiana.” By the 1974 opening, the group was able to procure 24 automobiles on loan along with a variety of memorabilia.

Since its opening, the group has greatly expanded its collection and even managed to get National Register of Historic Places recognition for the building. Visitors to the museum today will find it chockfull of exhibits dedicated to the three lines. It features three floors of gallery space, an archives, education center and more. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum plays host to special events and exhibits throughout the year.

Car lovers interested in the history of the American automobile outside of what happened in Detroit will find the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum provides an eye-opening experience. This museum is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It only closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s. Tours are self-guided, but it is possible to arrange a docent-led visit.

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If you want to keep your antique vehicle looking and smelling great, there are a number of tricks of the trade. The first rule is to always use the gentlest approach first. Gentle cleansers without abrasives, for example, are best to start with.

So, what do you need to keep a classic in tiptop condition? Here are the basic supplies that can help you get the job done right:

Vacuum – An automotive vacuum is your best friend when working on cleaning the interior of an antique car. Use it to clean mats, carpeting and dirt and crumbs stuck in the seats. Do this before proceeding to clean the vehicle.

Soft clothes and nonabrasive sponges – Use these to rub the dash, assist with cleaning the seats and removing built up gunk from the steering column and instrument panel.

Water – This is the original cleaning agent. Use it first to try and remove stains, spills and built up gunk. If water and cloth along will not do the trick, move on to other cleaning agents. 

Leather cleaner – If the seats are made from leather and you are positive of this, use a high quality leather cleaner and softener to clean and protect the material. Be sure not to rub too hard. Do not give in and use abrasives to clean dirt out of cracks either. 

Vinyl cleaner – A mild vinyl cleaner can be used in place of leather cleaner if the seats are made from this synthetic material.

Softener or polish – Keep in mind that vinyl and leather can dry out and crack. To prevent damage or stop it from getting worse, be sure to treat leather or vinyl seats and dashboards with a softening agent. Select one made for the specific interior in the classic you own. 

Carpet/upholstery cleaner – Find the gentlest cleaner designed for automotive use and apply it sparingly to upholstery and carpeting. Test the cleaner in an inconspicuous spot, too. This will help you determine if any bleeding will occur.

Newspaper – When this combines with water or window cleaner getting the windshield cleaned will be a snap. Just spray the windshield and use the newsprint like you would paper towel. Newspaper removes worry about streaking and is gentle enough not to scratch glass surfaces.

Baking soda – If the interior of the car smells musty, open a few boxes of cheap baking soda and allow them to sit inside the vehicle for a few hours. Baking soda will pull out a lot of odors from the air and leave the vehicle smelling fresher in little time at all.

While harsh chemical cleaners are fine to use in the cars of today, antiques deserve a gentler touch. If it is time to clean your classic, remember less is often more on the interior.

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The Crown Vic as it is often called was originally produced in 1955 and 1956. Original Crown Vics are quite a boon to come across since production ceased so quickly on the models. Collectors, in fact, will find it is not uncommon for good condition 1955 Crown Victoria models to fetch $30,000 to $100,000 or more.

Initially a coupe with two doors and six seats, the classic was distinguished from the regular Victoria in the Ford line by a decorative stainless steel band that ran along the roofline. This feature essentially gave the roof a crowned appearance. The full-sized car also featured a sweeping design with rounded lights and the perfect body embellishments to make a two-toned paint job look fantastic. This V8 beauty was a follow up to the Ford LTD in production. Just like the LTD, the Crown Victoria was and continues to be favored as a police car and fleet vehicle.

Although the original rear-wheel drive Crown Victoria models were appreciated by some, especially those building fleets, the model did not initially sell well. Sluggish sales, in fact, led Ford to shelve the model for a time. It did not reappear on the market until 1979. At this point, Ford introduced the LTD Crown Victoria. This four-door design was shorter and less bulky than the original version. The changes resulted in improved handling, ride and fuel economy. The LTD version came with two engine types, a 255 CID V8 and a 302 V8. Most models made between 1979 and 1980 were three speeds with an automatic transition. An AOD four-speed was an option that was made available.

The reintroduction of the Crown Victoria paid off for Ford with sales and production continued. In the 1980s, the LTD Crown Victoria was a hit with both law enforcement and civilians. Ford, in fact, began producing two versions by 1983. Models for the general public offered a fuel-injected V8. The police version boasted a 5.8 liter V8 with a Variable Venturi carburetor.

During the 1980s, a number of alterations were also made to the Crown Vic design. In 1983, for example, central fuel injection was introduced. By 1986, this had been replaced by a sequential fuel injection system that was electronic.

The success of the reintroduced Crown Victoria line has led to production of this design since the late 1970s. Although many changes have occurred through the years, the model continues to be one of top in the Ford line for luxury combined with speed and handling. The 1990s did see a break off of the police version of the car. The Crown Victoria Police Interceptor was officially introduced in 1999.

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