Millions of dollars’ worth of vintage and exotic cars will again line Landis Avenue as Cruise Down Memory Lane returns to downtown Vineland—The Ave—on Saturday, June 14, from 5 to 9 p.m. The rain date will be Sunday, June 15, from 5 to 9 p.m.
Main Street Vineland will be organizing this annual Vineland tradition, now in its 33nd year, in cooperation with the Cruise Down Memory Lane Committee.
Accelerated Transport is the major sponsor of this event, and Newfield National Bank is the Plaque Sponsor. We are grateful to all of our sponsors who make this event such a great success. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. More information may be found at www.theave.biz.
This event attracts nearly 1,000 American cars—over one mile of cars—and is open to street rods, muscle cars, stock or custom classics, rat rods, and cruisers.
The gates will open for participating cars at 3 p.m. at West Avenue and East Avenue and all participating vehicles must enter through the gate. The cars will remain parked for display when the event starts at 5 p.m. Cruising will start at 8 p.m. and all traffic laws will be enforced.
The event is open to American marque cars only. They must be 1974 or older, unless it is a highly modified late-model or a car entering with a legitimate car club. No motorcycles, bikes, foreign cars, or partially-primed vehicles will be allowed. Period correct cars are allowed upon approval. Admission is subject to the Cruise Down Memory Lane staging and gate personnel. Ineligible vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense. No special parking arrangements and no alcoholic beverages will be allowed. Any car club entry must enter the gates with their club.
“Thousands of people—classic car buffs and people just out to have some fun—all love this longtime Vineland tradition which brings back the days of muscle cars, chrome, and fins,” said Main Street Vineland Executive Director Russell Swanson. “We’re proud of this iconic event—which has been going strong for over three decades and which draws people to Vineland from all over and makes our downtown a true summer destination for fun events.”
“We’re proud of this long-standing event which has made The Ave a destination for so many.” said Swanson. “Come out and have a great time!”
For more information on the event, call the Main Street Vineland office at 856-794-8653. You can also call Marv, of the Cruise Down Memory Lane Committee, at 856-697-6306 or, the day at the show, call Jerry at 856-503-1312.
Information on all Main Street Vineland events can also be obtained by visiting the organization’s website at www.TheAve.biz or visiting it on Facebook.
Classic Car Maintenance: Your Ultimate Checklist
Source: https://www.mavyn.com/
Owning a classic car is a unique privilege and a passionate hobby for many. These timeless vehicles not only represent a piece of automotive history but also reflect the personal taste and style of their owners. However, maintaining a classic car requires a dedicated approach to ensure it remains in top condition. By following this comprehensive maintenance checklist, you can ensure your classic vehicle remains in peak condition, ready to turn heads and transport you back in time with every drive.
Regular Maintenance
1. Oil and Filter Change: Classic cars need regular oil changes, typically every 3,000 miles or at least twice a year, depending on usage. Use oil that’s appropriate for your vehicle’s age and engine type. Don’t forget to replace the oil filter with every change.
2. Cooling System: Check the radiator, hoses, and connections for leaks or wear. Replace coolant at least once a year to prevent corrosion and overheating.
3. Fuel System: Replace the fuel filter annually to prevent clogs. Check for leaks in the fuel lines and ensure the carburetor is clean and properly adjusted.
4. Ignition System: Replace spark plugs, distributor caps, and rotor annually. Check the ignition timing and adjust as necessary.
5. Brakes: Check the brake fluid level regularly and replace it every two years. Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear and replace as needed.
6. Battery: Classic cars often sit for extended periods. Keep the battery charged with a trickle charger and check for corrosion on the terminals.
7. Tires: Check tire pressure monthly and inspect for signs of wear or damage. Rotate tires every 5,000 miles to ensure even wear.
Periodic Checks
1. Suspension and Steering: Annually inspect the suspension and steering components for wear or damage. Replace bushings, bearings, and joints as needed.
2. Exhaust System: Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, rust, or damage annually. Ensure all mounts and hangers are secure.
3. Transmission: Check the transmission fluid level and condition every six months. Consider a professional service every 2-3 years.
4. Differential: Check the differential oil level and condition annually. Replace the fluid according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Cosmetic Care
1. Washing: Wash your classic car regularly to remove dirt and pollutants. Use a gentle, pH-neutral soap and avoid high-pressure washers.
2. Waxing: Apply a quality carnauba wax every three to six months to protect the paint and enhance the shine.
3. Interior: Clean the interior with products suitable for the materials. Treat leather seats and trim with a conditioner to prevent cracking.
4. Storage: If storing your classic car for an extended period, use a breathable car cover and consider placing moisture absorbers inside to prevent mold and mildew.
Professional Inspections
Even with diligent maintenance, it’s wise to have your classic car inspected once a year by a professional mechanic specializing in vintage vehicles. They can identify potential issues that may not be apparent to the average owner and provide expert advice on any necessary repairs or adjustments.
Classic Car Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Source: American Collectors Insurance, americancollectors.com/
Before you purchase a classic car, it is a good idea to get it inspected by a mechanic. You should not settle for a short test-drive before deciding if a classic car is the right fit for you. Pre-purchase classic car inspections allow you to get a deeper understanding of how the car runs and what problems may need fixing.
In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to examine before purchasing a new collector car.
What Is A Pre-Purchase Inspection?
A pre-purchase inspection is a professional vehicle inspection in which the entire vehicle is thoroughly checked for evidence of mechanical, structural, or cosmetic damage before it’s purchased. This detailed report can help you determine if the car being inspected is worth the investment you are going to put in it. The licensed mechanic or technician will help determine whether the vehicle is suitable for sale throughout the inspection process. This can potentially save you thousands of dollars by preventing you from buying a damaged car.
A pre-purchase car inspection is an investment that can pay off in the short-term as well. If a mechanic informs you of existing mechanical problems under the hood, you can use those issues to negotiate a better purchasing price from the owner.
More than anything, a classic car pre-purchase inspection offers buyers peace of mind. This is especially important if you are financing a classic car. Unless you’re an automotive expert, chances are you might miss something. By receiving a second opinion from an experienced mechanic, you can find out whether the vehicle you’re buying is worth its asking price.
Where Can I Get A Pre-Purchase Car Inspection?
You can get an objective, pre-purchase inspection from a neutral party by searching “pre-purchase inspection near me” and sorting through the various reputable (i.e., with many legitimate positive reviews) garages and mechanics.
If you’re purchasing the vehicle from a dealership, they will be able to conduct the inspection on the spot. However, a dealership may experience a conflict of interest between providing complete information about the vehicle condition and providing too much information which may endanger the potential sale of the car.
If you’re buying a car from a secondhand owner or vendor, take it to a trusted mechanic. Buyers who are unsure how to get a pre-purchase inspection can also order a pre-purchase inspection from the MotorTech Classic Car Network, AAG Auto Appraisal Group, or FossilCars.
What a Pre-Purchase Inspection Entails for Your Car
When you start looking around to purchase a classic vehicle, you need to ensure the car is up to your standard. Sometimes, used cars may not be in the proper condition to drive or may need additional maintenance after purchase. The best way to understand exactly how much time and work you’ll need to put into the used vehicle is to get a pre-purchase inspection. But, what exactly does that entail?
A pre-purchase “road ready” inspection should check these five elements—body panels, condition, tires, engine compartment/mechanicals, and smell.
Body Panels: What To Look For
When looking at the body panels of a vehicle for a pre-purchase inspection, you’ll want to look at the following:
• Check the exterior of the car by walking around it and noting any scratches, dents, discoloration, rust, or blemishes of any kind.
• Look out for gaps between panels looking for evidence of frame damage. Uneven gaps may be indicative of an accident repair.
• Assess condition of undercarriage including frame and sub-frames.
• Assess condition of under body including floor pans, trunk pan, rocker panels, etc.
• Examine for evidence of rust, collision or flood damage
• Assess fit, finish and condition of body panels and paint
Overall Condition: What To Look For
When looking at the overall condition of a vehicle for a pre-purchase inspection, you’ll want to look at the following:
• Evaluate condition of door panels, upholstery, carpets, consoles, seats, headliners, dashboards.
• Evaluate condition of trim, chrome, stainless steel, plastic, lenses, glass, and emblems
• Confirm presence of spare wheel, tools, accessories.
Tires: What To Look For
When looking at the tires on a vehicle for a pre-purchase inspection, you’ll want to look at the following:
• Take note of the condition of the tires, whether they are the same brand, or if they are bubbling or cracking on the sidewalls.
• Observe tread. There should be at least a one-third inch of tire tread left on classic car tires. If the tread is uneven, there may be a suspension issue.
Engine Compartment/Mechanicals: What To Look For To Look For
When looking at the engine compartment and mechanicals of a vehicle for a pre-purchase inspection, you’ll want to look at the following:
• Pop the hood and conduct a thorough pre-buy car inspection of the entire under-the-hood compartment.
• Check for signs of grease, leaks, coolant, and ensure that fluid levels are normal.
• Squeeze hoses to confirm that hoses don’t feel too hardened.
• Inspection / evaluation of overall condition of engine, drive-train, and brakes.
• Assess condition of suspension by noting whether vehicle sits level and bounce corners to identify potential suspension issues.
• Verify proper operation of mechanical/electrical levers, lights, switches, accessories, and controls.
• Road test drive (if possible) to identify potential steering, gear shifting, suspension, braking, engine operation, or exhaust system issues.
Smell: What To Look For
When assessing the smell of a vehicle for a pre-purchase inspection, you’ll want to check the following:
• Check the interior of the car for a mold or mildew smell. If a classic car hasn’t been well looked after, it may show signs of water damage that are easily sniffed out.
• Make sure you double-check carpets for evidence of water damage, mildew or mold.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does A Pre-Purchase Inspection Cost?
Pre-purchase car inspection services for a used car usually cost a few hundred dollars. However, these inspection reports can wind up saving you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in the long run. Making an informed decision on the purchase of a used car is incredibly important, especially when dealing with pricey classic and vintage models.
Are Pre-Purchase Inspections Necessary to Insure My Classic Vehicle?
No, pre-purchase inspections are not necessary for you to insure your classic car. However, it is still a good idea to get one before making a final purchasing decision.
What Types of Vehicles Can Qualify for a Pre-Purchase Inspection?
Any vehicle you purchase can qualify for a pre-purchase inspection, whether it is a motorcycle or car.
Get High Quality Auto Insurance for Your Classic Car
When you finally purchase your dream car, you’re going to want to do everything in your power to take care of it. Whether that means getting a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic you trust, or finding a trustworthy company to insure your vehicle, American Collectors Insurance can help.
We love classic and vintage cars just as much as you do, so we want to make sure they’re taken care of. You can talk to one of our collector specialists to get a free quote built around your needs.
