I remember seeing a post on retro rides once about car covers, I remember a guy who had a Porsche 944 and had a quarter cover. So basically a cover that just covers roof and windows etc. Due to the fact It kept moisture in and around the top half of the car, after sometime, the paint was ruined, not to mention the scratching from the plastic material. I imagine that was just a cheap cover and the material didn’t help matters. For those who can’t afford to have a garage, are there options for covers, fabric or otherwise, that would protect and preserve a vehicle?

 

I’d prefer my Z to be out of the harshest conditions, so I’m willing to spend a reasonable amount on a decent solution.

I think as long as you get one that fits snugly (there of plenty of manufacturers that offer a 300zx cover) and you get one designed for outdoor use that can breathe. Be careful who you buy from, just because it's expensive, doesn't mean it's any better than a "cheap" halfords jobbie. I'd say find a reputable company and discuss your options with them based on what you need and take it from there. I'd expect to pay £250-300+ for a decent outdoor cover that will last you a long time and not damage the paint.

 

Another thing to consider is that you must never put the cover over it if you have driven it, otherwise the dirt will cause damage and transfer into the inside of the cover. You also shouldn't put the cover on straight after washing until it's completely dry as you don't want to trap any moisture from the last drops coming out of panel gaps etc.

 

Personally I never cover my car unless it has been washed, decontaminated and clayed but to be fair, I have a special case of anally induced (eh?!) ZOCD!

The classic motor show at the NEC attracts all the big manufacturers of these covers and have lots of trade stands with samples, demos and special offers. If you can make that show or a similar type of show it may go a long way to help you choose, possibly save you some money and give you a nice day out to boot [emoji41]

I think as long as you get one that fits snugly (there of plenty of manufacturers that offer a 300zx cover) and you get one designed for outdoor use that can breathe. Be careful who you buy from, just because it's expensive, doesn't mean it's any better than a "cheap" halfords jobbie. I'd say find a reputable company and discuss your options with them based on what you need and take it from there. I'd expect to pay £250-300+ for a decent outdoor cover that will last you a long time and not damage the paint.

 

Another thing to consider is that you must never put the cover over it if you have driven it, otherwise the dirt will cause damage and transfer into the inside of the cover. You also shouldn't put the cover on straight after washing until it's completely dry as you don't want to trap any moisture from the last drops coming out of panel gaps etc.

 

Personally I never cover my car unless it has been washed, decontaminated and clayed but to be fair, I have a special case of anally induced (eh?!) ZOCD!

 

I hadn’t actually thought of the dirt aspect to be honest. It sounds like you don’t have a garage either?

I am looking to buy a house, my first house, but trying to find one with a garage with my budget isn’t looking good.

I guess you have to make a decision when to clean and cover the car because if you go out in the shitty weather, you’d have to try and get it clean again before throwing the cover over.

What material is on the inside of the cover you have?

Joel has a garage which I think he's going to have extended soon.

 

Sometimes I throw a dust sheet on mine. My garage is integral so is super super dry and never really that cold in winter. But storing a car in a damp garage is worse than storing it outside IMO.

I did cover mine with a good UV protecting breathable cover and had the car covered in micro blisters for my trouble.

Whether or not it was the cover is debatable, but was resprayed fully in 2001 and suddenly got the blisters 10 years later after using the cover....

I personally will never use one again outside as I wouldn't want to risk it...... Building a garage is ow I intend to look after my Z.....

Failing that I may rent a space to store her that is dry and has a good airflow......

Just my experience......

Russ

The classic motor show at the NEC attracts all the big manufacturers of these covers and have lots of trade stands with samples, demos and special offers. If you can make that show or a similar type of show it may go a long way to help you choose, possibly save you some money and give you a nice day out to boot [emoji41]

 

I second Joel's comment there!

 

The NEC show is the classic car show of the year. So considering it attracts the pinnacle of British classic cars, from our very own 300zx to Astons and Gullwing Mercs worth hundreds of thousands of pounds, you'll generally find that expert supplier to cater for your need.