Modifying Old Cars With New and Modern Parts:
If it’s in good shape and mostly original, then you may only need to make a few performance and comfort upgrades to your old car to ensure its reliability and safety. Many new and modern parts can be installed without compromising the classic feel and, after all, you want it to keep pace with today’s modern lifestyle, not get towed home on a regular basis!
1. Switch to Disc Brakes
Problem:
Drum brakes are a braking system installed on older cars that have ‘shoes’ pressing on the inside of the rotating drum in the wheel to slow the car down. The issue with these is that they can wear down and pull the car left or right. If you try to stop suddenly when someone pulls out in front of you could end up in your neighbour’s lane.
Solution:
Transitioning to a disc brake system is not only better for safety, but also maintenance. If they need repairing, disc brakes are much easier to work on than drum brakes and parts are more widely available.
2. Install an Electric Fan
Problem:
If it’s a hot day, you don’t want to get stuck in traffic in your old car if it has a mechanical fan. These rely on how fast the motor is spinning to cool down the engine. In summer, you may have to change your travelling times to avoid rush hour so your engine doesn’t overheat an inconvenience you can do without.
Solution:
Bolt-on electric fan options are an easy and relatively inexpensive fix. Rather than relying on the speed of the motor, electric fans cool the engine based on a predetermined temperature.
3. Switch to Electronic Ignition
Problem:
Starting reliably every time is one of the most important requirements of an old or classic car. If it has a points ignition system this will need constant cleaning and adjustment to keep your engine starting and running smoothly. Not ideal if you don’t have the time.
Solution:
Switching to an electronic ignition system offers better reliability, faster starts, more power and a little petrol mileage boost.
4. New Temperature & Charging Gauges
Problem:
The older your car, the more basic the gauges on your dashboard are. This can cause problems if overheating or low battery power to go unnoticed until it’s too late.
Solution:
Replacing your gauges with a set that allows you keep track of your car’s systems and identify potential problems as soon as they occur.
5. Power Steering
Problem:
No power steering means manoeuvering into tight streets and parking spaces. People won’t appreciate your ability to execute a 20-point turn and you’ll probably receive a barrage of colourful language.
Solution:
Upgrade your original steering to power steering to increase your maneuverability. The cost an upgrade will depend on what type of car you have.
6. Installing Air Conditioning
Problem:
In Australia air conditioning in cars isn’t just a luxury it’s a necessity. Some old cars may already have factory-equipped air conditioning, but it won’t be as efficient as a modern system so expect to swelter in summer.
Solution:
Modern air conditioning units have a better cooling capacity with very little engine drag. They’re also smaller so they take up less room in the the area under your dash and in your engine bay.
Modifying Old Cars With New and Modern Parts
Modifying your old or classic car? Call Door to Door Car Carrying today, we can transport your old or classic car interstate to a specialist mechanic for a modification into the 21st century! Contact us today for help with your transport.
