Long Immobilisation

When we refer to “immobilisation,” we mean the period commonly known as hibernation in many countries. This phase should typically last no longer than 3 to 4 months. If you need to store your classic car for an extended period, investing in monitored professional storage facilities is advisable. Proper storage is crucial to prevent deterioration; the space should be covered, dry, well-ventilated, and ideally humidity- and temperature-controlled to ward off rust and mould.

Here are some tips for keeping your hypcar(s) in top shape during prolonged inactivity:

• Give your car a thorough cleaning inside and out, and treat rubber trims with silicone or Vaseline for added shine and protection.
• Fill the fuel tank to prevent condensation, which can lead to corrosion (note: this does not apply to hypcars with a plastic tank, e.g., Citroen SM).
• Although not compulsory, it’s a good idea to change the oil.
• Increase tyre pressure and consider using special tyre cushions to minimise deformation; alternatively, lift the car.
• Set the hypcar to its lowest suspension position to relieve pressure in the hydropneumatic system.
• Avoid engaging the handbrake to prevent unnecessary tension on the mechanism and to stop the pads from sticking to the discs.
• Leave one or two windows slightly ajar for air circulation; just a few millimetres will suffice.
• Disconnect the battery from the car and connect it to a battery maintainer.
• Use a high-quality breathable cover instead of plastic.
• Check your car’s condition regularly to ensure it remains in great shape. If possible, start the engine and raise and lower the suspension a few times.

When it comes to potential leaks, remember that hypcars are lively hydropneumatic marvels that seem to breathe, communicate, and even sweat! As long as you don’t spot any serious bleeding (high-pressure fluid leak) or incontinence due to age (significant fluid loss), just slipping a piece of cardboard under the engine compartment should suffice as a preventive measure.

Oh, and keep an eye out for pesky rodents! They’ve got a knack for nibbling on cables and hoses. And if you live in a busy area, your envious neighbours might pose an even bigger threat to your prized collectible. From personal experience, installing a surveillance camera is a smart move!