Did You Ever Change Oil in an Old Vw Bug?

This old 1964 classic car was primer gray with a black driver's door and if you wanted to turn off the heat you had to go under the car and remove a flexible duct to stop the inflow because the controls inside the car were broken.

This classic car was quirky to the max!

I had a book that was popular to a certain extent in it's day written by John Muir - Volkswagen Guru called "How to keep your Volkswagen Alive - A Manual of Step by Step Procedures for the Compleat Idiot". That fit me pretty good because I was certainly close to a compleat idiot. Gotta' love the spelling of "compleat".

I read the book and began the process of changing my oil. On a VW Bug, you have to remove 5 bolts to get to a screen that acted like an oil filter and let the oil drain from there. There is no oil drain plug like a "regular" automobile.

The process takes a few minutes longer than a standard car but it's not a real pain at all and for a first timer, it was actually a rewarding experience.

That car died one day as I was driving to work... the engine caught fire. I'm assuming that a fuel line broke and spilled gas onto the hot engine. I stopped the car, grabbed a few things, hopped out and watched my 400.00 VW Beetle call it a day.

If that car was alive today it would be an antique classic for sure.

Defining an Antique Car

Having an old car can be a pretty neat experience. Everyone knows that certain older cars might be considered antiques or classics. But how is one to know which is which? It isn’t always easy, especially if you aren’t an especially extreme car lover. Determining if your car is an antique will require some time and research on your part. This is something that tends to be a little fuzzy around the edges and not always so clearly defined. Don’t be surprised if you turn up some conflicting information. Antique cars are not something that everyone agrees on.

The exact definition of an antique car tends to be a highly debated topic. The Classic Car Club of America states that an antique car is one that was manufactured before the year 1948. It is likely that you will come across sites and organizations that do not agree with this and instead have different years listed. If you need the information for insurance purposes then your best bet is to get the details directly from your insurance company. They will have their own regulations and specifications regarding what make your car considered an antique.

Most antique cars are considered to be those that were built before World War I. During the war auto production was brought to a halt and the manufacturing facilities were used to make war vehicles. Those cars made before the war are considered very rare today and many of them are worth millions of dollars due to that rarity. Of course the rareness of a certain model can directly affect if it is labeled as a classic or antique. Availability certainly does play a role in determining what makes a car antique.

There are many neat tidbits of information that comes from antique cars. Many people for instance do not know where the Mercedes received its name from. An Austrian man contracted Daimler to create a fleet of 30 cars for him. He wished them to be called Mercedes, which was the name of his own daughter. This is interesting since that name has once again become a common name for girls. Many don’t know that it started out that way all along.

The early designs of vehicles should be appreciated and respected regardless of their classic, vintage or antique status. They are the direct link to the cars we all love and drive today. The very first cars were nothing like modern day vehicles. They had no windshield and no safety features. It’s astounding to see the way the vehicle has evolved since the days of the original antiques.

It is important to note that a classic car and an antique one are not at all the same thing. They have differing definitions and are not grouped together. Classic cars tend to be sports or muscle cars from the 1950s to the 1970s. However, like antiques, the exact years seem to change depending on your source. Seek out a professional for an expert opinion on antique cars if you find these sources to be lacking.

The Vw Camper

VW Campers have become an iconic part of motor history. The first models went on sale in the early 1950’s, and since then people can’t seem to get enough of them. As well as being aesthetically appealing, these vans provide a perfect camping experience, with its large interior and comfortable living space. A VW camper can make your holiday, which is why it is such an iconic model today.

The first VW models started to sell in the early 1950’s. This model was called the Spilt-screened Kombi. True to its name, the bus has two screens instead of one, which was extremely fashionable at the time. This style of Camper has since become one of the most sought after vehicles, due to this model being replaced in 1968 with a single screen version. Because there are only a number of the Split-screened versions left, this Camper has become some what of a collector’s item. Due to its rarity and age, the Split-screened Kombi can be worth quite a lot of money.

The VW interior has played a big part of the van’s popularity. The van isn’t just a means of transport, but also as a place to live when you are on your travels. A standard VW Camper comes with fold out beds and chairs, a fold-away table, good storage space, a sink and electrical sockets (amongst other features). It is easy to see why the van is so appealing- you can make it into your own little home and customise it how you wish. There are also a range of extras which you can add to your van to make it even more like your own portable house. Extras such as air conditioning, a portable toilet and an attachable tent are also available.

The VW Camper has become a retro icon during recent times, probably due to its association with hippies in the late 1960’s. Many people now look to buy to restore them into their original forms, and then can live the culture that they created in the 60’s. You can also hire VW Camper vans, if you can’t afford your own, but you still wish to experience some of that iconic magic. The Volkswagen Camper is a fun and fantastic option if you are looking to go on a holiday which requires you to travel as well as find your own accommodation.

Future Classic Cars

Items from the past have a way of affecting those that come in the future. We are all familiar with various cars from the past that are now considered to be classics. But is it possible to determine which cars of today will go on to become future classics? It really is anyone's opinion but there are things that can be considered in order to form those opinions. An internet search will show that many people are casting their votes for future classics. There are a few that certainly stand out among the rest but really, only time will tell.

The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is among the lists of many automotive experts taking their picks on the future. The Corvette is not new to many. It has been around for many years, earning its status as a must have automobile. This model is outstanding with an impressive 7.0 liter engine that is loaded with power. With 505 horsepower there will be no stopping this beast from racing into the history books. Though it may not be the type of car suited for family, day to day use that is part of its appeal. There is a good chance this car will become a collectible model within decades.

Another great product by GM is the Pontiac Solstice. This little car is exceptionally sleek in appearance and fun to drive. It's also not bad when it comes to using for daily summer driving. It makes a great convertible too. It does tend to be the type of car that you either love or hate, but so far it is loved enough that it is destined for the classics.

Most people may be surprised to hear that the Smart car is on many lists for future classic. However, that was the thought many once had towards the Beetle as well. The Smart car was designed to be fuel efficient, which it certainly is. The funky little design makes the quirky body style appealing to many on a physical level. Though certainly not for everybody, it does have a practicality that has to be admired.

The Audi S5 is a great model that is perfect for family use as well as riding in style. Audi has made many great vehicles over the years and this one is not so different. It is nice to look at and possesses all of the latest safety features. It has an affordability that not many comparable cars can claim. Though it is a coupe, it provides the kind of luxury and casual style that many seek in a daily driver.

True classic car fans will be eager to see the Mustang Shelby GT 500 KR hit the history books. It is a tribute to the legendary Carroll Shelby. With 540 horsepower, this car isn't fooling around. Mustang is one of the best known auto names in the world. It's likely this car could see classic status. Classics of the future are yet to be determined but regardless, they will be outstanding.  

The Difference Between Classic And Vintage Cars

It is not always easy to determine if a vehicle is considered to be a vintage car or a classic one. The definitions seem to be changing all the time. A vintage car is usually considered to be any that was built from 1919 to 1930. However, the classic era seems to have crossed into the vintage, at least according to some experts. This can make defining the two tricky. Sometimes knowing the two are different is simply not enough information. If you have an older car and you need facts, you will want to do your homework.

The reason most people need to define their car as classic or vintage is for insurance purposes. You should always have insurance coverage on your vehicle. If anything were to happen to it you would otherwise have to pay for it out of your own pocket. And that's a chance that should never be taken with any old vehicle. Many insurance companies have a rule that the car must be at least 25 years old or older to be considered a classic. If the car is older than the 1930s it will likely be considered vintage. Of course some agencies even have a historical status for vehicles of certain ages so be sure to inquire fully.

Currently it seems that there is no concrete definition of a classic car. To some it is an old hotrod from the 1950s and for others it is the muscle cars of the 1970s. This term gets a little sticky because the definition seems to change with every person asked.

According to the Classic Car Club of America a classic automobile is any one that has been built between the years of 1925 and 1948. This is an indication of how drastically different the opinions are from resource to resource. That definition does apply to cars that were either domestic or foreign built. If you check out the club's website and find a car missing from their classic list that you feel should be there, you can actually petition the site to add it to their list. It doesn't mean that they will but it's certainly worth a try.

You will likely find that different organizations or car clubs will have their own definitions of vintage and classic cars. Many different factors affect these choices too such as the popularity of the car then and now as well as the make, model and historical value. For instance, models of vehicles that appeared on TV or in movies tend to have a higher ranking classic status than those that did not.

The rarity of the vehicle also may play a role in if it is classic or vintage. A car that is exceptionally rare will likely have a higher numerical value attached to it. This can affect what category it falls into. Do not stop searching for definitions at just one source. Compare and contrast them, form your own definition if need be based on what you find. A professional opinion is recommended for extremely valuable or rare vehicles.

Differences Between The 1964 And A Half Mustang And The 1965 Mustang

With all the confusion over differences between the 1964 and a half Mustang and the 1965 model it can be very tough to identify them. The issue is that all Mustangs from the very beginning of production back on March 9th of 1964 use the identifier "5," standing for the year 1965, in their VIN. Technically there is no "1964 Mustang" however collectors and enthusiasts refer to those cars built from March 9th to August 17th of 1964 of that year as "1964 and a half" Mustangs. Another variation is to call these cars "early 1965s" and the cars built after the above period "late 1965s." 

As far as Ford is concerned they simply had roughly 18 months of production on the 1965 model. What's the big deal about the August 17 date? That was the day that Ford shut down the two Mustang plants (in Dearborn, MI. and San Jose, CA.) were shut down for retooling. It was at this point that most agree that anything that can be called a 1964 and a half Mustang stopped being produced and the 1965 Mustang production began. 

The most glaring and easily recognizable change from before and after the retooling was the switch from a generator system to an alternator system. The real problems with identification come from the phasing in and out of various parts and components over several months. As the original parts used at the very beginning ran out they were replaced with more standardized versions after the "Great Retooling." 

There is an issue when trying to determine exactly what a 1964 and a half really is. In fact some of the early 1965 models are assembled using some or many of the "early" 1964 parts. It can be confusing to say the least. There are, however, a few well accepted guidelines in determining year on these cars. (Either way, be prepare for a discussion when this comes up at the next car show.

When discussing this issue there are two sets or groups of parts that are talked about. These are generally referred to as "1964" or "early" parts, or those that were used at the beginning of production starting in March of '64, and "later parts" or those that came into use after the 1964 parts were exhausted. Keep in mind that some 1964 parts were used on some of the 1965 model year cars until the supply ran out. 

A few of the very easiest differences to spot are handy to know when looking for a car to purchase or out at the local car show: 

a) The first spot to look is at the corners of the cars hood at the front. The 1964 and a half Mustang had a beveled edge that set into a groove as opposed to the more finished looking "pinched" or "crimped" method use on the 1965 Mustang. 

b) Passenger seats on the '64 were fixed, or in other words not meant to adjust or slide backwards and forward. The 1965 model had adjustable passenger seats. 

c) The door locks are color keyed to the interior color of the car on the 1964 and while in the 1965 model they were chromed. 

d) The gas tank cap will not have a holding wire on a '64 while it will on a 1965. 

e) There are no Fastbacks that are considered 1964 and a half models. There may be a few of the early Fastbacks assembled with left over 1964 parts however it is widely accepted that Ford never built a Fastback prior to August 17th 1964. 

f) The pedals on the 1964 were not made to accept a metal trim piece and therefore will not have the indentations around the edge you'll see on the 1965's. 

g) The rule is a Mustang with the D, F, or U engine designation is considered a definite 1964 model. Those with engine codes of either C or K were used in the 1964 and 1965 model so are of little use in identifying. 

h) The '64 and 's had a center position off switch for the heater. 

These are just some of the most obvious, easily seen and most accepted differences between the 1964 and a half Mustang and the 1965. It's an interesting bit of automobile history and a lot of fun to look into. 

1965 Mustang Shelby Gt

With the introduction of the Ford Mustang in the middle of 1964 there was a nation wide sensation. This was of course due to the nature of the car design however the manner in which the media was handled and the marketing blitz that took place before, during, and after the official launch. A huge turnout in positive newspaper reviews, numbering the thousands, and an appearance as the Official Pace Car of the 1964 Indianapolis 500 coupled with an attractive purchase price of around $2,300 launched the Mustang into the American automotive limelight.

1965 was the first full official year of production of the Mustang. In addition to the primary Coupe design several variations on this model were available on the 1965 Mustang. For example Ford introduced a Fastback model for the Mustang that year to augment the existing hardtop coupe and the convertible. Two famous variations on the Mustang appeared in 1965 as well. The famed Shelby Mustang first appeared at this time. A Shelby Mustang in 1956 was a Fastback model with no rear seat. The spare tire was located in the back in the area of the rear window and the gas tank flap had the Mustang icon on it. They also added some more power to the 289 engine getting it up to a 306. The second variation was the 1965 Mustang GT introduced in the second quarter of that year and at a cost an additional $165! The GT option was available on the coupe, convertible or fastback models and came with a few variations of its own. As for the power train there was a choice between a 225 horsepower or a 271 horsepower V-8 engine.

Another choice to be made was between a three or four speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission called the Cruise-O-Matic. All GT packages came with an upgraded instrument group, striping on the lower part of the body sides. Finished out with "GT" badges on the front fenders, large fog lights mounted inside the front grill and a dual exhaust the 1965 Mustang GT really stood out! While the Shelby and GT packages got a lot of attention during 1965 the coupe body style was what really sold. The Ford Motor Company had first anticipated sales of the 1965 Mustang to be some where around the 100,000 and let's just say they sold a few more than that!

The Mustang was produced to compete in the emerging muscle car segment at the time. While it's the main competition the 1960's were such cars as General Motors Camaro and Chryslers Barracuda the Ford Mustang is the only muscle car from that era that has seen a continuous production run. While this early Mustang earned wide acclaim and several recognitions perhaps the most memorable is the Tiffany Medal. Tiffany & Co. presented a medal each year for excellence in American design and the 1965 Mustang was the very first automobile ever to win this award. This Mustang remains a true favorite in the eyes of casual fans and collectors alike. With the emergence of many Mustang oriented car clubs, the growing population of Car Auctions on television and an overall increasing interest in classic cars the 1965 Mustang is sure to remain an American icon for generations to come.

Emergency Kit Advice For Your Classic Car

Emergency kits are an essential tool for any vehicle including your classic car. Whether you have a relaxed trip to the country or a longer trip to a classic car show, it is always best to be prepared ahead of time. Auto emergency kits often mean less time stranded and more time on the road. If you became stranded today, are you prepared? Be sure to equip your vehicle with everything you need to ensure a safe trip - and be sure every driver is familiar with the tools contained in your auto emergency kit and knows how to use them.

What should the kit include?
1.2Tools for minor car repairs including flat head and Phillips screwdrivers, vice grips, adjustable wrench, pliers, pocketknife, or a multipurpose tool containing many tools in one. Other items that can come in handy during a roadside emergency include oil, antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, rags or paper towels, duct tape, and an ice scraper.
First aid kit containing basics gauze, bandages, adhesive tape, antibiotic ointment, scissors, instant ice pack, instant heat compress, and aspirin or other pain reliever.
A blanket.
A bottle of water.
Food such as Granola or energy bars.
A flashlight with extra batteries.
Emergency flares.
Pen and paper.
A help sign to place in the window for passing vehicles to see in case you are stranded inside your classic car.
A spare tire, vehicle jack, tire pressure gauge, and lug wrench. Another handy item to have available is a bottled tire inflator. If the tire is not completely flat, you may be able to inflate the tire enough to get to a service station.
Your classic car insurance company details.

Antique classic cars

There are several examples of classic cars in America, some of the most popular are:

Ford Mustang, Dodge Charger. Chevrolet Impala, Chevrolet Chevelle, BMW 3 Series, Bentley Turbo R, and Volkswagen Beetle.

Classis cars captivate people from all ages; they are somehow part of the 20th Century history. Car shows and exhibitions are held throughout the world where classic cars enthusiasts reunite to exhibit their jewels.

When built, cars are not meant to be a classic, time and people are the two key factors when deciding what becomes a classic and what does not. American culture has given classic cars a new meaning. Restorations worth tens of thousands of dollars and paint jobs that resemble a brand new car, and chromed engines, are just part of the investment that classic cars enthusiasts perform to maintain their jewels flawless.

One famous classic car collector is NBC’s former star on ‘The tonight show’ Jay Leno. He does not only collect classic cars, but also classic motorcycles. His cars range from the early 1900’s to modern masterpieces. 

Classic car auctions take place al over the United States, these auctions are the perfect place to find rare pieces as well as bargains; television broadcasts take place from time to time, representative of the love and admiration that the American society has given to the classic cars move.

Owning a classic car in not cheap, for starters, classic cars need a lot of maintenance, the cars should always be kept clean and away from direct sunlight to avoid damages in the paint job, tires for classic cars are always a details that should not go unattended, and some sets of tires can cost up to $5,000.00 USD. Transportation to car shows is also expensive whether if it is via air or ground. 

One of the most important pieces of the car and most of the times, the most expensive, is the engine. When we talk about classic cars and engines, you better take your check book with you, not every engine can be placed in every car, moreover, the engine that will be placed in a classic car must be chromed and have state-of-the-art components, and that costs money. That is why you will often find celebrities whose hobby is collecting classic cars, and who could blame them? They have the money to do it!

Classic cars are here to stay, so next time you see one of these jewels down the street, stop and admire the fine piece of art and the culture on wheels. In case you want to check more about this topic, try to visit www.antique-classiccars.com

Restore Your Vintage Car

Restoration of any kind is an exceptionally difficult and time consuming job. It certainly does have benefits though. The restoration of a vintage car demands plenty of commitment and perseverance. It is a long task that could take years to complete so you certainly must have a lot of staying power. This is the type of job that is perfect for a small group or a pair of friends to do together. Having more hands could help the job significantly as it will achieve more in far less time. There is a lot involved in the restoration of vintage cars but it is not without rewards.

When it comes to replacing or repairing parts for your vintage car, seek out a place that stores old cars or the parts from them. There are many places like this that specialize in the collection of cars when they are disposed of. This is always a good place to get started in your search for parts or components related to the type of car you are trying to restore. Do a Google search for those that are located in your area. Call around and ask if they have anything that matches the make, year and model of your old car. In many cases you will be able to have items shipped if they are outside of your local area.

If you are very new to car restoration then perhaps you would be interested in having a professional restoration company do it for you or help you out with certain tasks or repairs. This type of service can become quite costly so shop around for the best price possible. Some of them will only agree if they are taking on the whole job, not just part of it, so keep this in mind.

Do not make the mistake of cutting corners when restoring a vintage car. Doing everything the cheapest way may not be the best idea. Not only do you want the car to look great when it’s finished, you also want it to work properly. Use quality parts that are designed for use in that type of vehicle. It could save you a lot of trouble and repair costs later. It also does not hurt to look up some helpful tips online for dealing with things like rust removal. You can discover plenty of ways to save time while working faster with an online search.

Try to keep everything as original as possible. There may be some parts used on the car that are not as old as the car is but when it comes to most things, paint being one of them, you need to match the era. If you use new paint only found on models from this decade, it will greatly rob your vintage car of the effect you wish to have. Check out restoration magazines and websites during this process. They will assist you greatly as you go. When restoring your vintage car it is essential that you do it correctly in order to retain the value and the significance of the vehicle.

Proper Antique Car Storage

The storage of your valuables directly affects the kind of condition they are in come the future. Antique cars are items that need to be stored with strict care and maintenance. It’s not enough to throw a car cover over top and leave it for years on end. That kind of activity will only help to age your car and cause it to deteriorate. Classic and vintage cars grow rarer all the time. If you have one in your care, it’s important to treat it like the piece of history that it really is.

Your classic car should be detailed regularly, even when sitting in storage. It does not take long for dust and dirt to build up and stick to the paint. Cleaning both inside and outside is strongly recommended. Use only products that are specified for cars and indicate that they are safe on all automotive surfaces. A wax job before the car goes into storage is always a good idea. Good wax can protect the paint by coating it with a wax layer that prevents dirt and other things from bonding to your paint. It is one of the best ways to care for your antique car at all times, when stored or when in use.

If the car will be in storage for an extended amount of time, it is suggested that you always drain the fluids out of the car. Contaminants can settle in the fluid and it will grow thick and sluggish over time. Drain it all out before storing your classic car, then refill with all fresh fluids if you decide to drive it again or use it in a car show.

Mice can be a problem for some cars that are left in storage. You need to do all that you can to prevent the annoying little critters from getting into your car. They chew on things and leave waste behind. There is no end to the damage that can be caused by mice. Use a storage facility that guarantees a mouse free storage space or take necessary precautions yourself. Sometimes something as simple as a strong scented Bounce dryer sheet will keep them away.

Crack the windows open before you store your antique car. It will prevent humidity from building up inside the car. Proper ventilation and airflow will make a noticeable difference next time you open the car door. It also prevents moisture from accumulating inside which can lead to mould growth. That is a very serious type of problem.

Proper storage is essential. Choose car covers that are made for storage. Covers should be made of material that allows for proper air circulation. If possible, storing the car up off the ground on the back of a trailer is also a good idea. Make sure that nobody has access to your car except for you and anyone that you designate. Antique cars are rare but they have a wealth of history behind them. Do what is necessary to preserve yours so that time does not become the enemy.

Selling a Classic Car

planning and preparation. It is unlikely that you will feel comfortable selling to the first person that comes along. It may also be difficult finding a potential buyer, depending on your location and circumstances. There are many great ways to increase your chances of selling your classic car. There tend to be more resources available to sellers than many people realize. It’s a matter of discovering what will benefit you most as a seller and making it work for you.

Many classic cars fall into an unkempt state over the years if they are not properly stored or maintained. If the classic car you wish to sell is not in the best of shape, you may have to decide if you want to sell it as a whole or for parts instead. Many classic car owners are continually seeking replacement parts for their older cars so this may be a good way to unload your automobile. Of course, getting rid of the entire car all at once is much faster and tends to be preferable to most automotive sellers.

Start taking out some ads in places where car enthusiasts are likely to come across it. Try looking up classic car magazines both in print and online. Quite often these publications have a classified ad section where you can post your car for sale. Sometimes these ad spaces are free or they may require a small fee. Do not bother with ad spaces that cost a substantial amount unless they give you some form of guarantee. It just is not generally worth it.

There are a few very popular classified ad sites that are known for having a high amount of traffic. Craigslist.org is one of these sites where you can list your classic car for sale. Kijiji.com is another. Both of these sites allow you to choose your country and city so that the ad is placed appropriately. You need to always use these sites with caution though. They are known for scam artists so be careful when it comes to dealing with people through those sites.

If the classic car that you are trying to sell is still in decent driving condition, one of the best ways to sell it is by driving it around. Put up a sign in the window which alerts the public to the sale of the car. This is a great way to spread the word, simply by going for a drive. Also, if any car shows come to town that is also a perfect place for taking your classic car in order to advertise that it is for sale.

It certainly never hurts to ask local mechanics or auto shop owners if they are interested or if they would be willing to post up a flyer for you in case their customers are interested. There are many ways to appeal to car buyers. Make use of them and you will find a buyer in no time.