Among the many purposes utilized by the owners of classic vehicles with their cars, car shows are some of the most exciting and entertaining. These shows offer opportunities to get your vehicle seen by many other car enthusiasts, plus in many cases to be recognized for its overall quality and perhaps even win awards as part of the show.
At Andersen Restoration Parts, we're here to provide quality classic car restoration products for any need, including those who want to showcase their vehicles at car shows regularly. We offer a massive range of kits and other products, from polyurethane and other suspension kits to rebuild kits, bushing sets and more. Here are some general tips for how to stand out at a car show.
It's Not Just About the Exterior
While the first impressions many people get of your car will indeed be based on how it looks from the outside, don't forget that there's more to a car show than just the exterior. In addition to having a vehicle that looks great on the outside, you'll also want to make sure that it's in excellent condition under the hood.
Be sure to detail your engine compartment and make it look as nice as possible. This will not only add to the overall curb appeal of your vehicle, but it will also give you a chance to show off your pride and joy to anyone who may be interested in taking a peek.
A Clean Car is a Happy Car
No matter how well-built or how nice your classic car looks, it won't do you any good if it's not clean. A car show is the perfect opportunity to give your vehicle a good cleaning, both inside and out. This means shampooing the carpets, polishing the paint, and making sure that there isn't a single speck of dust to be found.
In addition to making your car look its best, taking the time to clean it thoroughly will also help you to avoid any potential accidents while you're driving it. A clean car is a happy car, and a happy car is more likely to make it through a car show without any problems.
Take Your Time
One of the most important things to remember when preparing your classic car for a show is to take your time. This is not a race, and there's no prize for being the first one to finish.
Instead, take your time and make sure that everything is just perfect. After all, this is your chance to really show off your car and make it look its absolute best. So take your time and enjoy the process!
Bring the Documentation
A vital theme that too many classic car owners forget is that, for a car to be truly appreciated, its history needs to be documented. This is why we strongly recommend that you bring along any documentation that you have on your car's history.
This could include things like old photographs, repair records, and even the original owner's manual. Anything that can help to tell the story of your car will be of interest to other car enthusiasts, and it will help to make your car more valuable in their eyes.
Make Sure You Have the Right Parts
One of the most important things you can do to prepare your classic car for a show is to make sure that you have the right parts. This means having the right suspension parts, the right engine parts, and the right body parts.
Especially if you're at a quality car show, those in attendance -- especially judges, for any judged competitions -- will absolutely notice if you're using inferior parts. They'll also be able to tell if your car has been modified in any way that takes away from its originality.
This is why we recommend using only the best classic car restoration parts available. At Andersen Restoration Parts, we offer a wide range of high-quality parts that will help your car to look great -- and operate that way, as well.
Periodic Dusting
During the show itself, especially if it takes place outside, you'll want to make sure that you keep your classic car clean. This means periodic dusting, as well as keeping an eye on the condition of your tires.
If possible, we recommend bringing along a small can of tire shine and a microfiber cloth. This way, you can quickly and easily touch up your tires whenever they start to look a little dull.
Be Around to Answer Questions
We know you'll want to spend at least some time viewing other cars at the show, but it's important to remember that your car is also a big part of the event. As such, you should plan on spending at least some time next to it, in case anyone has any questions.
This is a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends, so be sure to take advantage of it.
Park at the End of a Row
If at all possible, try to arrive early and park at the end of a row. This will give you more space to work with when it comes to setting up your car, and it will also make it easier for people to see your car.
It's also a good idea to bring along a small step stool or something similar. This way, you can easily get in and out of your car without having to ask for help.
Preparing your classic car for a show doesn't have to be a difficult or time-consuming task. By following these simple tips, you can be sure that your car will look its absolute best -- and that you'll have a great time showing it off!
For more on this, or to learn about any of the classic car restoration parts or related services we offer, speak to our team at Andersen Restoration Parts today.