Winter is here, and if you have an old car that you don’t drive during the winter months, it’s important to make sure that your car is properly stored and taken care of. There are a few things you should do to ensure your car stays in good shape despite the cold weather. Read on for our winter car storage checklist.
Insulate Your Tires
One of the most important things you can do when storing your car in the winter is to insulate your tires. The cold temperatures can cause flat spots in your tires if they’re not insulated. To avoid this, use a tire cover or even just some newspaper around each tire so that it won’t get too cold and lose air pressure.
Check and Top Off Fluids
It’s always a good idea to check all of your fluids before storing your vehicle for the winter months. Make sure all of the fluid levels are full and top off anything that may be low. This includes motor oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. This will help protect all of the parts of your vehicle while it sits unused throughout wintertime. And do not forget to add fuel stabilizer to your gas tank.
Convertible Top Up
If you have a convertible car with a soft top roof, make sure to put it up if possible before storing it away for the season. Keeping the top up will keep moisture out which could damage the interior or ruin any electronics or wiring inside your vehicle. It will also reduce wear on any seals which could break down over time if exposed to extreme cold temperatures while open.
Cover Your Vehicle
Finally, make sure to cover your vehicle while it sits dormant during wintertime. A car cover will protect from moisture as well as from any dirt or debris that may accumulate on its surface over time without being driven regularly. This way when you go to take it out next spring, it will still look great!
Taking proper precautions when storing an old car for winter is essential for keeping it in good condition year round. Make sure to insulate your tires, check and top off fluids, convertibles should keep their tops up at all times, and cover with a tarp or sheet metal cover for added protection against inclement weather conditions like snow or rain during this season where cars may remain static for several months at a time!
With these tips in mind, we guarantee that your old ride will stay safe until spring arrives once again!
Besides many modern types of cars nowadays, classic cars are still prominent in their own ways. Many classic cars are beautiful, powerful, and exclusive. Particularly, they are very dissimilar to today’s cars.
This article is about to give you more detail about the top 10 classic cars of all time. If you are a fan of classic cars, you should not miss this information.
Why are classic cars still popular these days?
Although some cutting-edge cars possess gorgeous designs and styles, classic cars still get more attraction and attention. The reason behind this is that designers at the old-time tend to have more freedom. They were completely not controlled and limited by emission laws, stringent safety.
Thus, the manufacturing process focused mainly on the good-looking exterior of the car. Besides, the classic cars were more unique while the modern ones recently look relatively the same to each other.
The second reason leading to the popularity of old cars is their prices. As classic cars were built years ago, they might severely depreciate, and people can buy them at the cheapest price. Yet not all classic ones are bargains.
Another reason contributing to the preference for antique cars is that they are easy to repair. While we cannot fix our modern cars themselves, classic cars’ problems are just about rebuilding or stripping. And you can do that without the local mechanic’s assistance.
In some situations, the equipment in modern cars is too complicated for a local mechanic to handle. There are lots of electronics, hard-to-troubleshoot parts that need professional mechanics from the car brands to check and repair.
One of the most important parts of a classic car is the tires. Choosing the right tires not only enhances the exterior beauty and authenticity of the vehicle, but it also determines the performance of the vehicle.
Top 10 commendable classic cars
1. Lamborghini Miura
The Lamborghini Miura was manufactured and released on the market in 1966. At that time, it was nominated as the fastest car or the first supercar in the world. Its name came from the idea of a fighting bull in Spain that is particularly ferocious. As such, the name can represent the speed and tenacity of the car.
The car possesses a sleek design with powerful performance. That the recessed headlamp made it be recognized by the public and kept the legendary status for a long time.
2. Jaguar E-type
This is one of the most beautiful and recognizable cars in the world. The car brand kept the E-type in manufacturing until the middle of the seventies. After that, the future designs of Jaguar are inspired by this E-type, including the internal mechanism and the body style.
Aside from its sleek design, its speed rocketed to 150 mph, breaking some records nowadays. This British staple also has a better braking system than many other vehicles from the same era.
3. Land Rover 1948
Nowadays, you can see many Land Rover cars on the road, and they look modern. However, only the original one in 1948 can capture your attention. Maurice and Spencer Wilks are the fathers of this Land Rover genre.
Two features that make the Land Rover’s history are composure and capability. Also, the manufacturer crafted the car with aluminum and kept innovating it constantly.
4. Volkswagen Beetle 1938
The Beetle is absolutely the iconic car of the Volkswagen brand. It was designed by a student in Hungary in 1925 and it was considered to be the people’s car. In terms of its feature, the most remarkable aspect is the lightweight body style.
While other cars at that time were heavy, challenging to drive and handle, the Beetle was free and lightweight. Thus, drivers enjoyed driving this car so much. Besides, the longevity of this car comes from its simplicity. That is why its original design is still used in production now.
5. Ferrari 250 GTO
It can be said that this model is extremely rare. As you may know, Ferrari made only 39 race cars like that from 1962 to 1964. Thus, only a few people around the world have opportunities to drive one.
That stylish and sleek design made it become a famous car of all time. However, due to its rarity and modernized design, its price tag is relatively expensive.
6. Aston Martin DB5
Many drivers can recognize this car at the first sight as it was James Bond’s choice. The concept of this car came from an Italian designer in Milan. Of its capability, it can speed up to about 145 mph.
The interior design comes with electric windows and wool pile carpets. These are standard features of this model, making it a luxurious, iconic, and famous car of all time.
7. Ford Model T
The Ford Model T was manufactured between 1908 and 1927 and thanks to it, the American automobile industry started. Then, the car quickly was the staple of the American household with a low price of about $850. Yet, the Model T is quite challenging to drive due to the 2-speed transmission and hand-crank engine.
8. Mercedes 300SL Gullwing
This Mercedes 300SL Gullwing was released in 1954, then become the fastest sports car. With the fuel-injected engine, the car could travel 163 mph. About its body, the car was built in aluminum which is worth 4 times more expensive steel now. Besides, the body was light enough to hit its top speed.
9. Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 lies in 9th place in the list as it needs some more improvement. But it still is recognizable to the public. The design of this supercar is quite similar to the Volkswagen Beetle as they were designed by one designer.
Regarding its engine, it can accelerate to 60 mph in 6 seconds thanks to the flat-six engine 210bhp.
10. Chevrolet Corvette
Many American enjoy collecting this vehicle as it was rare when being first introduced. Looking at the split-window coupe, it offered a distinct perspective from the outside and inside. Besides, it was also equipped with soft leather and strong engines.
Conclusion
Above are the top 10 classic cars of all time that you might be curious about. They are also considered and valued as the most powerful, iconic, and beautiful cars worldwide. Hope that you will find this article helpful and satisfying.
What Will Happen When You Let Your Car Unused for Extended Periods?
For some reason, you may have to leave your car at home or park it for a long period. Yet, what if your car is left unused for a long time? That is a big question that many drivers are confused about and looking for the answer to.
This article will give you more information about the state of a car when it is not employed for an extended period. Let’s get started!
How long can your car sustain when being left unused?
Several factors might impact your car if you leave it in storage for a long time.
Battery
You can use the car’s battery for about 3 to 5 years in case you drive it frequently. But, when you leave the car sitting for an extended period, the battery is likely to go dead. This will happen in only 2-3 months.
Fuel
The gasoline might go bad if it is not contained in the airtight container. Particularly, when the fuel gets reacted with the oxygen, the degradation will have happened since then. This process takes about 1 month to commence and 3 to 6 months to worsen the gas tank.
Tires
Tires are a very important part, carrying the entire weight of the vehicle. Tires can maintain their shape under normal driving conditions. However, if the vehicle is not used for a long time, the tires can be deflated and warped, oxidized...
At this point, you usually apply the solution of re-inflating the tires, but driving with tires that have been unused for too long is still not safe, especially when you are driving in slippery road conditions, or driving in the rain. Your tires can form bubbles, which can lead to a blowout, especially at high speeds.
Rust
The oxidation will cause the byproduct of rust. However, this phenomenon just happens when the environment is humid for example. The damp conditions or chemicals such as salt may speed up this process. So, you should protect your vehicle well if you want to avoid this situation.
What will happen if you leave your vehicle unused for a long time?
1. Faded paint
Drivers often store their cars in the garage. There will not be many problems if the garage has a cover. How about parking your car outside without anything covering it?
The paint of your car will be faded gradually and become a lighter hue. The heat from the sun is so hot that it will destroy the natural coat of your car and damage other paint forms.
2. Pests and insects
Some familiar pests or insects such as spiders, or cockroaches can shelter inside your car if you leave it idle without frequently using it. Especially, during the winter or harsh conditions, the weather outdoors might get extreme, even snakes also can inhabit inside the car.
It is quite challenging to eliminate these insects as they can hide under your seat. Also, they might appear suddenly and startle you, leading to an unexpected accident. Some may also experience seeing the snakes, they often seek the warmness in the engine.
With this unwanted interference, the mechanical operation of your car might face some issues. Then, you will have some sudden stops during your trip.
3. Rotors and brakes
After an extended period of being left unused, the rotors and brakes might become rust. You can check this problem by listening to some squeaking noise or grinding when you brake. General, you should have your rotors and brakes checked by a mechanic before driving on the road.
4. Fuel pump and gas tank
There are two parts of your car that are easy to break down including the fuel pump and the gas tank. Specifically, when you start the engine but no fluids flow through, the malfunction will happen. Some severe situations also need replacement.
About the gas tank, it is one the costliest components when replacing. So, if the car is not employed for a long time, the metals will be rust. This is the main cause that damages the car.
When the tank rusts, the gasoline may leak out, leading to a huge disaster immediately. If you find any rusted signals on the gas tank, it is compulsory to replace the entire tank. Also, you have to replace the pipes, fuel pumps, and valves. By doing that, you can avoid corrosion and other car parts will not be affected.
How can drivers prepare for storage?
1. Get the battery charged
There are two different kinds of chargers. The first one can charge the dead battery fast while the other one can maintain the charged battery. With the handy feature, drivers can leave the charger plugged in the whole time.
The electricity is slow and steady so that you can feel secure about the charge of the battery. For more detail, you can buy these chargers at the auto hardware store.
2. Wash the car
It is better to wash your car right before you park it. All contaminants, road salt, or dirt will be removed after a wash. This prevents the car from rusting and damaging the paint. If the temperature around you are highly humid, you should undercoat or pain the rust-protection for your car.
3. Use the fuel stabilizer
The fuel stabilizer helps to protect the gasoline from degrading. You can purchase one at the auto parts shop and it can keep the fuel fresh in 2 years most. To use it correctly, you should read and follow the instruction.
4. Proof the car
It is recommended to add mouse repellents under and inside your car so that you can keep the rodents away. Some other options can be scent deterrents, mousetraps, or electronic deterrents that can play sound.
Bottom line
Cars are used to drive regularly. So, if you leave it to stay idle for weeks or even longer, lots of issues will pop up. Obviously, not all problems are preventable or repairable. Above are some details for the question ‘What if your car is left unused for a long time?’. In case you do not use your car for an extended period, think about selling it.
GAA Classic Cars final 2021 auction wrapped up on November 6th. This was the fourth auction of 2021 and closed out the year with a 90% sold. This year can go down as the best year yet for GAA Classic Cars. February’s auction closed out at 95% sold and was followed by 94% in April and 91% in July.
Located at 301 Norwalk Street in Greensboro, NC, GAA Classic Cars Auction (GAACC) consigns vehicles from all over the country with an assortment ranging from pre-war to present day unique vehicles. The auction is held at The Automobile Palace. The facility is owned by GAACC and expanded last year to 5.5 acres of enclosed, climate-controlled auction space. An additional expansion was just announced for 2022.
The auction was full of love and generosity this fall with donations to a few deserving charities. The Road Warrior Foundation provides adventure therapy for Veterans. A longtime customer donated a beautiful 1956 Ford Victoria for auction with all proceeds going to the Road Warrior Foundation. The vehicle brought $41,000 on the auction block! This along with donations from other customers went to further the adventure for Veterans!
A few notable lots include a 1970 Chevelle LS6 that sold for $195,000, a 1936 Packard Eight 1401 that sold for $178,200 and Conway Twitty’s 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk that sold for $52,000.
GAACC has already started consigning vehicles for 2022. If you have a special classic to consign go to gaaclassiccars.com and click “sell.” The next auction is February 24-26, 2022.
About GAA Classic Car Auction: GAA Classic Car Auction hosts 3-4 classic, muscle and unique car auctions per year. You can find additional info at gaaclassiccars.com. Specific questions can be emailed to [email protected] or call 1-855-862-2257 for assistance. (NCAL#9949, Parks)
Every vintage car has a story, and this iconic GTO Judge’s began when it rolled off the Baltimore assembly line in early 1969 and was shipped to Chicago to take the bench and set precedent. This was quite a feat considering in 1963 General Motors had laid down the law and instituted a ban on manufacturing cars fit for racing. Still wanting to produce a powerful, fast, and fun car to drive on the streets, the engineering team found a loophole and Pontiac gave birth to a new genre of muscle when this stock car coupe was engineered for drag racing. Auto companies may have been criticized for glamorizing speed and horsepower, but buyers of the GTO Judge craved it. Behind the wheel of a muscle car the entire world becomes one big racetrack. It’s not too hard to envision the original owner driving around the streets of the windy city, turning heads, and burning rubber at the light ready to go head-to-head with the first speedster to pull up next to them
Today, the GTO Judge still impresses collectors. Lasting only three model years and with less than 7,000 produced, just tell any car enthusiast that you own one and you instantly get respect. Tell them your plan to bring it back to its original glory and suddenly you hold the gavel! No one needed to tell that to the first place GTOAA award winning restoration enthusiast, Larry Metzger of Plainsboro, NJ, one time Vice President and long-time member of the Delaware Valley Old Goats club. When he laid his eyes on this coveted Carousel Red Goat with custom graphics for sale, he knew he had to have it. The original shell was the eye-catching book cover that inspired him to write its next Chapter. The restoration and showcasing of this historic supercar unfortunately never came to fruition, as he tragically lost his life when his home burned down, and the fire destroyed almost everything he owned. The only possessions that were saved from being engulfed in flames were the four GTO cars he was so passionate about.
The life of this 1969 GTO did not end in that fire, and its longing to flex its muscles again. This Judge may have ruled the streets more than fifty years ago, but it doesn’t qualify for senior status. Honorably, this Judge is not ready for retirement. It may not be as shiny or have the power of its younger years, but it still has undeniable appeal.
Whether you are planning a stunning restoration, or to keep it as an unrestored original, it’s time to take this old Goat out of the pasture?
This Judge does not have the original engine, we can only assume that it got dumped on a dragstrip somewhere but it does have original Muncie 21 4 Speed Transmission. The engine was replaced with a donor 400ci at some point in it’s life so you have period correct package. This is a very rare find with PSH and newly listed on Judge Registry. New carpet was recently added and seats are in fantastic shape with no rips or tears. We have replacement glass for the driver’s door that was broke out to save this piece of muscle history durning the fire. We will be happy to take additional photos or answer questions.
This 1969 GTO Judge is being offered at ACC Auctions by Duffy’s Classic Cars and Jetset Automotive. You can see the live listing here.
Looking for the Best Online Classic Car Auctions site?
Look no further than ACC Auctions! Backed by allcollectorcars.com — ACC Auctions was designed to provide the best online classic car auction experience for buyers and sellers alike. We specialize in vintage cars and trucks, and only work with trusted sellers who certify that their vehicles are exactly as advertised. Whether you’re on the hunt for classic cars, project cars, rat rods, antique trucks or muscle cars, ACC Auctions from All Collector Cars is your premier destination for classic vehicles in great condition.
Compared to other online classic car auction sites, ACC Auctions charges the lowest buyer’s fee of them all. See the chart below to see how the ACC Auctions buyer’s fee stack up again the rest of the competition.
Your money goes A LOT further at ACC Auctions as compared to the others out there. Most of the other classic car auctions even charge a sellers fee when the vehicle sells which ACC Auctions DOES NOT. We are 100% invested in getting a deal in place between buyer and seller while have minimal influence on both sides’ ability to come to an agreement. Charging more than DOUBLE the buyer’s fee and in some cases a seller’s fee makes reaching a deal much more difficult because you are often adding 10’s of thousands of dollars to a vehicle price.
At ACC Auctions, we also work with only the most trusted sellers, offering vehicles they would feel comfortable selling to their own family members. We post a much higher number of dealer vehicles over private seller vehicles, because we believe that seller reputation is important. When dealing with a private individual, there is much more risk involved as compared to dealing with a reputable collector car dealership. Many of our dealers will also include their own inspection reports with the sale so that you can be assured that someone with professional ability has looked over the vehicle, made necessary repairs, and deemed it ready for public sale.
New vehicles are added daily, head on over to ACC-Auctions.com right now to see whats available!
Ronnie Craig, General Manager of Duffy’s Classic Cars was hoping to get some leads and maybe sell a car through ACC Auctions, but he never dreamed that the first 2 cars he listed, would sell the first week.
His strategy was to look at cars that were not your typical muscle cars, had been in his inventory for longer than six months and they were slated to head to an onsite auction. He chose a 1950 Ford Woody Wagon and a 1929 Ford Model A, not only did the two vehicles sell but they exceeded the reserve.
In the competitive market of classic and muscle cars, every dealer is looking for the edge, looking for a marketing platform that drives not just traffic but BUYERS, that is exactly why ACC Auctions was formed. Dealers know cars, ACC Auctions know networks, and when the two are married then success happens for both. Duffy’s Classic Cars was the first dealer to sign up for the ACC Auction Partner Program giving them up to 5 free listings per month and additional listings at just $49 each.
In one short week ACC Auctions proved that there is a segment of buyers that are eager to bid and chase the car of their dreams. The marketing to such a niche group is changing by way of a network platform with targeted demographics. Welcome to the revolution!
November is filling up fast and if you are interested in being a part of the ACC Auction program you can signup with the attached form. For questions about how this new platform can sell your cars do not hesitate to reach out by phone at 888-472-9696 or by email: [email protected]
If you would like to reach out to Ronnie Craig at Duffy’s Classic Cars about his experience you can reach him at 319-366-7600 or by email: [email protected]
There may not be a true-blue American in sight who doesn’t love a good truck, right? And even if some of us don’t own one or can’t own one because of restrictions like space or money, we still look at these heavy-duty beauties with love-struck eyes. There’s something quintessentially beautiful about classic American trucks–they represent the times of yore full of struggle but drive. These beauties are from a time when the American sons and daughters of soils smelled of horses, hay, and pure hard work. This was when people like Henry Ford wanted to make not only the best trucks possible but also the best truck possible at the best (cheapest) price so that every American could own one. And along with Ford came Chevrolet, GMC, Hummer, Jeep, and even International Harvester, each company vying to be the top dog in the truck division by offering sturdy, beautiful, and powerful trucks to the American public that toiled hard to realize their American dream.And the truck companies recognized their efforts by bringing home beauties that looked as well as they ran–and even if their glory days are over now, they still manage to outshine many a new truck. So, okay, they may not be a technological marvel anymore, but you cannot deny their classic lines that look so good, you’d trade your new car for one in a jiffy! And mind you, these classics don’t come cheap! Why? Because nothing represents the American dream better than an American classic truck or a pickup, once a tool used to build America into the country it is today. So, here’s our list of the sickest classic American trucks ever, in random order; so which one is your American dream?
Introduced in 1953, The Ford F-100 was instantly a favorite, but when they did the hood uplift in 1956, it ruled the roost. At the time, it wasn’t the engine of the F-100 that made the American public horde to it in droves–it was that rugged and handsome appearance of its nose coupled with a set-back front axle that made it instantly appealing. The Ford F-100 was just a half-ton, but that face made it sell out so much so that the Ford legacy became forever intertwined with the F-100.
The Willys Jeep was a fine vehicle indeed, but the fineness faded with its age and restrictive military use. It remains a classic till date. To replace it and the Forward control truck, Jeep brought in the Gladiator.
A modern full-sized pickup, it was contemporary enough to have stayed in production with only minor changes over 24 years.
The largest engine that Jeep ever put in these was the AMC 401 V8 that made the Gladiator as powerful as it was good-looking.
Not many of these were built–just less than 2,000. But as good as the Chevy Blazer was, the Blazer Chalet was even better. Why? ‘Cause it let you off-road and camp at the same time.
The Chalet had a Chinook-made pop-up camper body that sort of slid into the cargo hold of a 4WD Blazer and provided a snug motorhome for two.
As cozy as it was, it could also handle the toughest terrain you threw at it, so it was the perfect truck for adventurers at heart.
Come on… when it comes to classic trucks, we have to mention the Willys, even if most of them are now “rusting” in peace in barns. The Willys is the blueprint on which all Jeeps are based, despite the 80-inch wheelbase and its really light load. It was a 4-wheel drive and possibly the only other true-blue American workhorse other than the Ford F-series that worked with just about any and every farm implement. This was also the car that kind of invented the open-top concept in a 4X4.
The Dodge Lil’ Red was way ahead of its times–so much so that on its entry in 1978, it had the fastest 0-to-100 mph of any and all vehicles of that year, more potent than even a Corvette. With that scarlet-red color and unbelievable 18-wheeler exhaust stacks, it was one of a kind then and basically still is. The 5.8-liter V8 engine churned out 225 horsepower and 295 lb-ft torque, which made it one nippy and nifty drive.
The 66 Bronco in itself was a cool enough truck, but when legendary racer Bill Stroppe teamed up with Ford, he created the very desirable and often-coveted Baja Bronco. Now, this was a class of its own. Some 400-650 replica Baja Broncos were made with a 4.9-liter V8 engine plus room for larger rear tires. There were plenty other parts that Stroppe offered as customizations, including roll cages, lights, winch, and heavy-duty suspension. They’re still considered pretty hot and basically fueled the off-road rage that’s still on today.
Till 1978, the Bronco was a small-platform truck, but then, it, too, changed guise and moved to an F-150 chassis. Now, you could choose a 7.5-liter V8 engine and basically make the Bronco buck like its namesake with so much power under the hood. We stop at 1980, though, because in 1981, the Bronco lost the Dana 44 front axle and replaced it with a Twin-Traction Beam that made it lose its till-now capable off-roading properties. So, the first three years, the new Bronco was a hit and still has quite a faithful following.
So sure, the company is defunct. But the Travelall, as the name suggests, could seat a whopping nine people with all seats in place because it was one of the first trucks to carry four real and operable doors. The curvy classic came in a 4-wheel drive that used leaf-sprung suspensions (like the Harvester pickups) and a 2-wheel drive that rode lower on a torsion-bar front suspension. In fact, the Travelall brochures bragged that if you removed the rear seats, the truck could still house a 4×8 sq ft of plywood—meaning, it was big!
22. 1942-1959 Napco Chevy And GMC Trucks
Via pinterest.com
Once upon a time, Dodge was way ahead in the truck game and had been offering 4WD since the forties. Chevy and GMC didn’t have this even in the ’50s, so they decided to take a sideways route.
They tied up with NAPCO (Northwest Auto Parts Company) that began to manufacture conversion kits for the GMC and Chevy trucks to turn them into four-wheel drives.
By 1957, the Napco Power-Pack 4WD kits were being instituted in the trucks on the assembly lines itself, and even today, these Napco trucks are coveted collectors’ items.
While the Lighting isn’t old enough to be a vintage, it’s still a classic American truck by Ford that was very well received, enough for a 1999 second-generation revival. So made by Ford’s SVT (special vehicles team), it gave a lot more power with the same 5.8-liter V8 engine because of tuning. 240 horsepower and 340 lb-ft torque, a lowered suspension on 17-inch tires and heavy duty shockers, springs, and anti-roll bars made it an American darling. And it still is a much-coveted vehicle, no matter the years on it.
The Dodge Power Wagon was introduced in 1946 and was basically built upon the WC-Series Dodge three-quarter-ton trucks used in WWII. In 1946, this was America’s very first 4WD truck, though, despite the “powerful” name, it only had a 94-horsepower-producing 3.7-liter engine. But it still got the job done because of a strong transmission and an ultra-low axle gearing. With a high ground clearance, it could pull heavy loads as well. And the only thing that could kill it was rust.
Go for this one if you want the toughest-looking truck in the history of American trucking. The “highboy” came with a sky-high feel because you could actually bolt 35-inch tires on them without having to do anything to the suspension, which is pretty neat. The drivetrain was pretty rugged as well, but after 1977, these trucks were lowered with a new frame and suspension. From mid-1977, the Ford 250 became the Lowboy, all because of a difference of some two inches.
18. 1967-72 Chevrolet Cheyenne
Via pinterest.com
The Chevy Cheyenne aka the Action Line pickups are still considered great-looking trucks, though they were made only for five years. The 71-72 Cheyenne introduced more sedan-like features with the same strength of a Chevy truck. They were the most popular and still are. Front disc brakes, a radio, a rather luxurious interior and a carpeted and insulated cab made this pickup look like luxury in front of the other spartan trucks. You’d be lucky to come across any Action Line truck, but if you get a ’71 or ’72 Cheyenne, it’s like coming across a four-leaf clover!
17. 1981-85 Jeep Scrambler
Via ebay.co.uk
The CJ offerings from Jeep, especially the CJ-5 and the CJ-7, were instant hits with off-roaders. And then, there was the CJ-8 or simply, the Jeep Scrambler.
It was built upon the CJ-7 only, with a longer wheelbase to fit in a pickup bed to widen the Jeep inventory.
For some reason, at the time, it never really became all that popular. Only 30,000 Scramblers were built, and this rarity and scarcity have now made it a rather rare and dear find.
16. 1947 Chevrolet 3100
Via pinterest.com
To brighten up the devastation of the First World War and also to create more opportunities at work, Chevrolet introduced a completely new line of Advanced-Design commercial trucks in 1947. The 1947 Chevrolet 3100 had style and gumption–and it’s as classic a truck as ever. A pre-1950 six-cylinder engine gave it power and trustworthiness as well, especially for those not terribly impressed with Ford or Dodge. It’s an American relic for sure and as classic a truck as any can get.
15. 1991 GMC Syclone
Via Barrett-Jackson.com
Why are we putting a ’91 truck on a classic-truck list? No, we haven’t gone bonkers–it’s because GMC never managed to make vehicles that lasted terribly long. So, a ’91 GMC Syclone is as much a classic as any other older truck.
The Syclone came into existence when some GMC whiz put in a 280-horsepower turbocharged V6 engine into the body of the S-15 Sonoma.
So, in ’91, this was a truck that could equal the road race even against a Ferrari. Reason enough to call it a classic, isn’t it?
14. 2007 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson Supercharged
Via youtube.com
Yes, we put a 2007 truck on this list. Why? Because it’s a Ford married to a Harley Davidson, in the best way possible. The 2007 Harley Davidson has all that the previous collaborations had–the chrome accents, alloy wheels, and the Harley Davidson branding. But it also has a surprise under the hood: an optional supercharger kit for the 5.4-liter V8 engine that could generate a whopping 450 horsepower–and this was more than ten years ago. Oh, and did we mention the 500 lb-ft of torque? This monster could chew up the road and spit it right back…
13. 1973 Dodge D100 Club Cab
Via barnfinds.com
There was obviously something very appealing about the “100” tag, which is why brands other than Ford have also been using it. The Dodge D100 was introduced in the 1970s, and in ’73, it morphed into a work truck with an independent front suspension and pocketed taillights. So, it didn’t just look good then; it also looks good now, especially if you rescue and restore it with some love. One innovation about this one is it had storage space in the cabin, too, over and above the pickup bed.
12. 1989 Dodge Shelby Dakota
Via tfltruck.com
While today, Ford leads the pack in trucks with its F-series hit, back in the day, Dodge wasn’t all that backward either. In fact, with a lot of the American public moving towards cars because of a nifty mobility instead of trucks, the Shelby Dakota upped the game with a powerful engine. Wih the help of Carroll Shelby (with Chrysler at the time), they put in a 5.2-liter V-8 engine that churned out 175 horsepower–big enough by 1989 standards. And the truck didn’t look half bad either.
11. 1971-1980 International Scout II
Via pinterest.com
Despite the Fords, Chevys, and the Dodges out there, the ’60s and ’70s were also ruled by the International Harvester Scout in the 4WD arena. While the Scout 80 and the 800s are coveted classics, it’s the brawny Scout II that many collectors lust after. It proved to be a perfect off-roader with its super-strong Dana 44 front axle and its 4.9-liter or 5.6-liter V8 engines. You could also opt for a longer wheelbase on this for a roomier SUV or a pickup version.
10. 1955-1958 Chevrolet Cameo
via pinterest
Honestly, this is the most beautiful pickup truck, according to many a classic fan. It shied away from the barebones workhorse truck it used to be and turned into a comfortable, stylish, and speedy pickup that was at home in a farm as it was parked beside the trendiest club. It was pricey, though, and with many more options being offered to the American buyer at cheaper costs, it died a quick death. By today’s standards, it’s a rare and pricey collectible, too.
9. 1935-1999 Chevrolet Suburban
Via depaula.com
Since the Chevrolet Suburban is the oldest continuous-use automobile name in the world, we saw it fit to mention it from its very start till 1999, after which you can’t really call it a classic. While it was first called the “Suburban Carryall,” in 1935, it was America’s very first SUV.
The 4WD came into effect way later in 1957, and four real doors came in some 16 years later in 1974.
From 1973 to 1991, the square-fender Suburban ruled the roads till finally, the design was changed again. Any year that’s available, you take the Chevrolet Suburban. It’s part and parcel of American history.
8. 1994-2001 Dodge Ram
Via americansportscar.com
Despite a great start, in the ’80s and the ’90s, the Dodge Ram trucks were struggling to make a mark, especially with Ford and Chevy doing wonders with their trucks. The Dodge designs were duds, though the Cummins diesel engines helped because of sheer strength. In 1994, the Dodge Ram trucks underwent a makeover and finally started to look as good as they ran. From then on till 2001, the Dodge Ram was the truck to own. And in case you need a good-looking classic truck, look for this all-American stud.
7. 1974-1977 Mazda Rotary Pickup (REPU)
Via pinterest.com
Before you point out that Mazda isn’t an American company, let us point out that this Wankel rotary-engine pickup truck was solely made for the American and Canadian markets. So, the Mazda B-Series is almost an American classic truck in bearing, even if the brand was Japanese. Almost. The 1.3-liter engine still managed to generate 100 horsepower and redlined at 7,000 rpm. The base versions retailed at $4,000. Less than 15,000 were ever made, and despite a weak engine, they retail pretty expensively.
6. 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee (XJ)
Via youtube.com
GM brought in the Blazer, and Ford came in with the Bronco, but the real daddy of compact SUVs and crossovers was the Jeep Cherokee XJ, first introduced in 1984. The Cherokee XJ was different because it didn’t use conventional body-on-frame construction. They were unibody, meaning the body of the car, as well as the frame, were morphed into one unit, much like it is on sedans. Another reason for their popularity was because they came in two-door and four-door options, way earlier than Chevy and Ford.
5. 1999-2007 Ford Super Duty
Via cardomain.com
The Ford Super Duty (basically the 650 and the 750) trucks changed the whole game of the commercial, heavy-duty truck market. It was one rad, bad pickup that could do just about anything, much more than the upgraded version of light-duty trucks everybody seemed to be using. The engine was a massive 6.8-liter V10 engine that was gasoline powered, and for diesel, it was a 7.3-liter turbodiesel that churned out a massive 500 lb-ft torque. Thoughtfully enough, they put in manually telescoping side mirrors for the drivers to be able to see their tow well.
4. 1939-1947 Hudson Big Boy C28
Via pinterest.com
Auto companies Nash and Hudson merged to form AMC, but the struggle with the big three continued for them. Then, they became smart, took their Commodore sedan, and turned it into a pickup truck. And they got it designed by America’s first female car designer, Betty Thatcher Oros. Production started in 1939 but halted between ’42 and ’45, because of the war, till it finally stopped in 1947. The Hudson trucks were called the “Big Boys,” powered by 102-horsepower-generating 3.5-liter V6 engines, and if you get one, count yourself lucky to have bought a beautiful and rare vintage truck.
3. 1991 Ford SkyRanger
Via ford-trucks.com
Haven’t heard of this one? Don’t be alarmed because just less than 20 of these were produced. The SkyRanger was only a special edition of the Ford Ranger but had an extended cab, a 4-liter Cologne V6 engine, and of course, an all-wheel drive.
The American Sunroof Company turned it into the SkyRanger by adding the targa removable top and was all set to sell plenty.
But Ford stepped in and scrapped it all. A rare find indeed and bound to be very, very expensive.
2. 1978 Dodge Midnite Express
Via pinterest.com
Much like its rare red sister, the Midnite Express was even rarer. It was basically the Dodge Warlock with the same Lil’ Red Express theme only in black and the same twin 18-wheeler exhausts that Lil’ Red sported. Though we’ve broken it down for you, the original was still a very, very cool truck, considering it came equipped with the 7.2-liter V8 engine. Only 270 original trucks ever existed, so getting them might be a tough order, if not an impossible one.
1. 1992-2006 AM General Hummer H1
Via youtube.com
So, we cannot talk about trucks and not mention the Hummer. The High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), or as most of the US army calls it, the “Humvee,” was the next best thing to sliced bread when it arrived in 1985. 16 inches of ground clearance and a very well-protected drivetrain on a four-wheel drive meant it could tackle any terrain (especially deserts) at high speeds. So, why keep a good thing to just the army? In 1992, the Humvee was redesigned for civilian use and classified as the H1.
You do not need to know a ton about your car or truck in order to save lots of money on repairs and general maintenance. With that being said, knowing a little bit of knowledge about how the industry of car repair works can save you hundreds – or even thousands – of dollars.
If you are interested in learning about some of the best tips to save money on keeping your car or truck running and in great shape, here are some fantastic tips that you can keep in mind!
Study up on your owner’s manual
Even if you stop reading this in just a few seconds, please read this. It is crucial that you get familiar with your Scheduled Maintenance Guide. This guide (that will come with your car, or that you can easily find a PDF of online) will tell you when maintenance for your car is suggested. If you are able to pay attention to the guidelines they lay out, you will absolutely learn when and how to spend your maintenance dollars.
Buy online
Without a doubt, one of the very best ways to save on your auto repair is to buy the parts that you need to replace or repair online. There are a number of fantastic online retailers. They have everything you will need to make the repairs but you need to make to get your car up and running again.
what makes he’s online retailer so fantastic is that they often have massive auto parts catalog, so that you can be sure that no matter what make, model, or year you drive, you will be able to order the parts that you need click of your mouse and have them delivered either straight to your home or to the mechanic that you are having work on your car.
Find a great local auto shop
One of the most important things That you can do when it comes to saving money on auto repair, is to ask family members, coworkers, friends, or trusted resources online about what shop or local mechanic they use when their car needs repair. You will also want to find local mechanics who specialize in the kind of car that you drive, especially if that car is a luxury vehicle or a classic.
Another great way to make sure that you are making the right decision when it comes to tool mechanics is to check the work area of the shop. Things like dirty rags on the ground, And E fluid containers, and other various items and trash on the floor may signify that they are not as professional as they should, or claim to, be.
Spend money on preventative maintenance
One of the very best ways to avoid spending hundreds, or thousands of dollars on car repair is to do the necessary preventative maintenance. Jobs such as oil changes and getting new filters can help keep your car running smoothly for years. One thing that you should consider when you go into your local mechanic is to ask more questions that you may have after reading your manual.
If they offer you an estimate of jobs that they think you may need to do, be sure that they can give you a specific reason why as well as that it lines up with what your manual advises.
If you are unable to afford the work that day, you should instead focus on the most important repairs and then set up a budget and goal in order to pay for the others.
Research what typical charges for similar repairs in your area are
Another great way to make sure that you are saving as much money and auto repairs is possible is to compare the estimates that you have gotten with prices of similar repairs that have been made in your area. There are a number of great sites online where you can simply input your zip code and find a range of Fair prices for jobs that are similar to the ones that you need. Keep in mind, that’s somewhere between the lowest price listed and about halfway to where the upper prices are is considered to be a fairly accurate approximation of a fair price.
Look out for duplicate charges
The sad truth is that some mechanics may try to charge you for things that you don’t have to pay for. One of the most common is for mechanics to duplicate their labor charges . This essentially means that they’re charging you twice the Fairmount labor that they did to fix your car.
If you are worried about facing duplicate charges from a mechanic, simply take your receipt to another mechanic (ideally one that you trust) and see what they have to say about your labor costs. from there, you can let the mechanic know and chances are good they will take off the duplicate labor charge.
Pay attention to warning signs
After you start up your car, and you see that the check engine light has come on, get it checked as quickly as possible and drive as little as possible until you get it into a mechanic. the light may seem like a very simple warning, but it is often a sign that something very serious is going on in your car. Please do not wait. Waiting can easily result and extreme damage to your car and far greater repair costs later on.
Sometimes, do the repairs yourself
Sometimes, the very best way to save money on your car repairs is to figure out how to do it yourself. You will absolutely want to do a lot of research before you get started, as you could accidentally cause more damage than was originally there! Still, if you are able to make the repairs at home and order the parts to your home, you will certainly save tons of money for each job and over the life of your car.
You must be logged in to post a comment.