Some people like to collect and preserve artwork or books, while others prefer to collect and preserve classic cars, such as Jeeps.
If you’re a fan of Jeeps, collecting and restoring the classics is a fulfilling experience. Whether you’re into restoring the old-school CJs or the even older-school Willys MBs, there are many Jeeps to fawn over. These things to know before buying a used Jeep will help you prepare for your next restoration project.
Have Storage Ready Beforehand
You probably have enough room to fit one or even two classic Jeeps in your garage, but for a proper collection, you need proper storage. You need to invest in a storage unit that allows you to expand the Jeep collection. The storage unit should also sustain a climate that won’t harm the Jeeps while they sit inside.
Another important factor to consider is distance. Find a storage facility that’s as close to your home as possible. That way, you won’t have to travel too far to make repairs, carry out maintenance, and show off the collection to visitors.
Carry Out a Thorough Inspection
To make sure the Jeep is in optimal condition, carry out a visual inspection. From the hood to the undercarriage, keep an eye out for any broken parts, rust, leaks, and other problems that need addressing. The last thing you want is to invest in a Jeep that’s in worse condition than you thought.
Aside from a visual inspection, you need to inspect how the vehicle handles. Test how well the Jeep shifts, brakes, and performs other basic functions to get a sense of its quality.
Take Maintenance/Repairs Into Account
After the inspection, you should have a good understanding of what repairs the Jeep needs. At this point, you need to consider whether or not you’re willing to carry out any repairs or regular maintenance procedures while owning the Jeep. For instance, if you need to remove a cross pedal shaft from a Willys Jeep, can you?
If not, you’ll need to research the proper procedures for doing so. If you improperly conduct repairs or maintenance, you can make the situation worse instead of better. If you do thorough research beforehand, you can restore that Willys well enough to be the jewel of your collection.
These important things to know before buying a used Jeep for your next restoration project will help you avoid making simple mistakes. Aside from the factors above, all you need is the cash and the tools to complete the purchase/restoration correctly. That way, you’ll have a classic Jeep worth showing off when all is said and done.