Prepare Your Antique Car For A Classic Car Show

If you own an antique car and would like to display it in a classic car show, the vehicle will draw attention from guests and you could potentially become the winner of a trophy or another prize if the car contains no signs of visible damage and has a clean exterior and interior. The steps below can be used to conceal a scratch on one of the doors. When finished, wash and wax the car and add some vintage accessories to the vehicle to improve the car's appearance. 

Materials

  • touch up paint pen
  • buffing cloths
  • automotive detergent
  • bucket of water
  • sponge
  • wax
  • portable vacuum
  • nameplate
  • hardware
  • molded seat covers
  • floor mats
  • fitted cover

Conceal The Scratch

Park your car in a well-lit garage or outdoor area so that you can clearly see the scratch on the door. Purchase a touch-up automotive paint pen from a dealership. A perfect color match can be obtained by providing details about the particular model you own.

Apply a light coat of paint along the length of the scratch. Move the paint tip slowly and avoid applying a lot of pressure against the tip of the pen or else too much paint will be released. When the paint has dried, inspect the scratch. If it is still visible through the paint, use the pen to apply an additional coat of paint. 

If you're concerned about repairing the damage yourself, make sure to take your car to an auto body repair shop.

Update The Car

Use automotive soap that has been mixed with water to clean the car's exterior. Move a soft sponge across the vehicle's body to loosen grime and road dust. Spray the car with plenty of water when finished and wait for the vehicle's body to dry. Wax the car's exterior, including the rims. Replace the buffing cloth with a clean one if wax builds up on the surface of the first cloth.

Vacuum the car's upholstery and flooring. Visit an automotive shop that sells vintage accessories. A nameplate, molded seat covers, and floor mats are some standard items that you can purchase if you do not already own them. If you will be installing a nameplate along the front of the car, use a screwdriver or power drill to install hardware through the corners of the plate.

After covering the seats and flooring, avoid driving the vehicle prior to the car show so that the interior does not become dirty. Use a fitted cover to protect the car's shiny appearance prior to the date of the car show. 


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