Question 01: What is your opinion of using aftermarket parts on classic cars? Does the addition of them alter the performance or more importantly, the value?

Tom's Answer: When a car is 100% stock and original, it will have a higher value; however, if the original car with aftermarket parts are of quality and the work is tastefully restored, then the parts used shouldn't have as much of an impact on the value of the car. If you plan on driving your classic car extensively, we would recommend improving it both for performance, as well as comfort.

Question 02: I live in New York, and recently inherited a classic 1966 Jaguar E-Type from my Father; I don't know much about the car, but I do know that it's beautiful; I'd really like to get started in the hobby, and possibly improve the car, but don't know where to begin...Do you have any suggestions to help get me started?

 Tom's Answer: We recommend joining a local Jaguar club through the JCNA website (jcna.com). Club participation is highly recommended, inexpensive, and will give you remarkable new insights into the hobby. It is also a fantastic way to meet new friends and acquaintances in your area. You'll be alongside passionate and highly knowledgeable people, and can attend one of the many sanctioned Concours events, giving you great exposure to what other collectors are doing with their cars.

Question 03: Tom, what are your recommendations for my exhaust manifolds on my E-type? Should I go with porcelain or heat treated?

Tom's Answer: This is really a personal preference. Porcelain manifolds are factory correct for the car but have yet to be proven to last aesthetically and need to be corrected every few years.

Heat treated manifolds have proven to last much longer aesthetically but are not factory correct. Both manifold choices have the same durability and will mechanically perform well. The difference is strictly the look of the manifold finish. Another option, would be to keep two manifolds; one for showing the Jaguar and one for driving.

Question 04: I own a 1965 XKE and I want to buy a new set of Wire Wheels...Do you recommend 5 inch, or 6 inch wide?

Tom's Answer: 5 inch wide wheels are stock, as delivered from the factory. The 6 inch wide gives you more footprint on the road, and you will have a great selection of contemporary tire style and brands to choose from.

Question 05: I was wondering how you determine the value of a classic car when you are trying to buy or sell...

Tom's Answer: We use CPI which is published by Black Book. It is an incredible resource that is updated 6 times a years. In addition, Black Book has a great accompanying smartphone app, so you can get instant updates where you are.

Which Oil Should I Use In My Classic Car's Engine?

The Question:

Which oil should I use in my classic car? It’s incredibly important to ask this question. Why? The reduced level of zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (known as ZDDP, ZDP or ZnDTP) in modern motor oil has been linked to increasing numbers of tappet and camshaft failures in vintage engines.

What Exactly Is the Problem?

The cam/tappet failure problems often begin with a freshly rebuilt engine that starts making expensive-sounding noises. Inspection might reveal that the bottom of one or more tappets is gone. Instead of a smooth, machined surface, the face of the tappet will look like the surface of the moon. If the problem is the camshaft, it will exhibit one or more worn lobes.

Just one failed tappet or cam lobe will create a problem, as the damage results from direct metal-to-metal contact. With metal debris in the sump, there is no choice but to tear down and rebuild the engine. Choosing an assembly lube and motor oil is critical in preventing this metal-to-metal contact.

Corrosion, which occurs over time when classics are not driven, is another serious issue. Normal motor oil is designed to lubricate, not to coat or protect metal surfaces from corrosion. All oil absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. Running the engine will eliminate this moisture, but leaving a car to sit for extended periods of time will lead to corrosion. Using an oil product that forms a clinging protective film on the exposed metal parts can minimize this problem. If the oil contains special corrosion inhibitors, all the better.

Repair shops specializing in British cars have been dealing with these issues for years, and most have developed a combination of parts, machine work, engine prep and lubricants to reduce these problems. Many shops cite assembly lube, oil and the amount of ZDDP in the oil as major concerns.

What Is ZDDP?

Zinc dialkyldithiophosphate is an oil supplement that has served as the primary extreme pressure (EP) ingredient in all quality motor oils for the past 70 years—until recently. What does it do? When exposed to heat and pressure, ZDDP forms a protective film on metal surfaces that prevents parts (cam lobes and tappets, for example) from making metal-to-metal contact.

Why Do I Suddenly Need ZDDP?

ZDDP has been phased out because it damages catalytic converters. Small amounts of zinc and phosphorus in the ZDDP coat the catalytic material, reducing the effective life of the converter. The ZDDP level in motor oil was reduced from 0.15 to 0.12 percent (1,500 to 1,200 PPM) in 1993, and further reduced from 0.08 to 0.06 percent (800 to 600 PPM) in API SM-grade oil in 2004. But is this level enough for an older engine, especially when it isn’t run frequently? And is it enough to protect the cam and lifters in a freshly rebuilt older engine during the critical break-in period?

The experience of hundreds of professional engine rebuilders, cam manufacturers and restorers indicates the mandated ZDDP level is not enough. The Engine Builders Association concluded that 75 percent of reported cam/tappet failures were due to the reduction in ZDDP. Association Technical Bulletin 2333R (November 2007) says current engine oils used by engine manufacturers in new car production should not be used for initial flat tappet/camshaft break-in. It recommends adding additional zinc for camshaft and lifter break-in. Most cam manufacturers also have specific instructions regarding assembly lube and break-in oil, citing cam/ tappet failures.

So What Should I Do?

The following guidelines can help you prevent cam/tappet failure and protect your engine.

Initial Break-In Period (First 30 minutes)

Use oil with ZDDP at 0.14 to 0.15 percent by weight (1,400 to 1,500 PPM) to provide the additional protection needed to maximize the chances of a successful cam/tappet break-in.

First 500 Miles After Initial Break-In

After that initial 20- to 30-minute break-in period, change the oil and oil filter. The oil you run after break-in will not need as much ZDDP; 0.10 to 0.12 percent ZDDP will provide protection without risking chemical corrosion.

Second 500 Miles After Initial Break-In

After the first 500 miles, change the oil and filter again, using oil with the same ZDDP level, 0.10 to 0.12 percent.

After the First 1,000 Miles (Car Driven Infrequently)

If you don’t drive your car once a week for 30 minutes or more with the oil between 170 and 200 degrees, consider using oil formulated specifically for classic cars. This oil has a mixture of additives designed to deal with the moisture, corrosion and acids in engines that sit for extended periods of time. Change your oil every 3,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. If you live in an area with high humidity, change the oil and filter four times a year.

After the First 1,000 Miles (Car Driven Frequently)

If you drive your car once a week for 30 minutes or more with the oil between 170 and 200 degrees, you have more options. Driving the car frequently will minimize the amount of acid, water and water vapor in the crankcase, and that will limit the corrosion and subsequent pitting of the cam lobes and lifters. Using 20W-50 API SM oil with 0.08 percent ZDDP can be fine, but if you are more conservative, a ZDDP level of 0.10 to 0.12 percent will provide additional protection.
 






Upcoming Events

   

January 6-15, 2017

 

Mecum Auctions at Kissimmee, Florida

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January 14-22, 2017

Barrett-Jackson Auctions - Scottsdale, AZ

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January 15, 2017

Arizona Concours d’Elegance at the Arizona Biltmore Resort

The Arizona Concours is thrilled to have the spectacular grounds of The Arizona Biltmore serve as the setting for its Concours d’Elegance. Since 1929, The Arizona Biltmore has been a destination of inspiration. Set on 39 acres of gardens, swimming pools and iconic architecture that stirs a city to life, the resort provides a spectacular setting for vintage automobiles, and plays muse to guests’ whims and wishes. Championship golf, a spa and fitness center, multiple restaurants, and a variety of amenities await you. Experience the unrivaled grace of this timeless treasure with a spirited soul.

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January 15, 2017

Worldwide Auctions, Scottsdale, Arizona

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January 19-20, 2017

RM Auctions - The Biltmore, Phoenix, AZ

Kicking off the collector car auction season on a strong note, RM Sotheby’s returns to the vibrant grounds of the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, 19–20 January, for its 18th annual Arizona sale. Last year’s sale was highlighted by the 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Special Roadster that sold for $9.9 million before a packed house. The auction’s impressive results represented a new benchmark for any automobile sold in Arizona auction week history, breaking the previous record set by RM in 2015. In total, 17 lots broke the million-dollar mark, with the event generating a total of $62.8 million with 85 percent of all lots sold.

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Janaury 19, 2017

Silver Auctions - Scottsdale, AZ

Silver has skillfully established a solid reputation for auctioning affordable collector cars in this January-in-Arizona extravaganza. Silver's auction continues to grow each year because it is filling a much-needed auction alternative. Thousands of buyers and sellers want an auction where they can buy and sell in an arena that they are personally comfortable in. Silver provides that alternative for the greater Phoenix area since 1992. Silver's Fort McDowell auction offers real buyers and sellers, real cars and real deals.

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January 20-21, 2017

Gooding Auctions - Scottsdale, AZ

Arizona is long-known as an ideal winter destination, and each January Scottsdale hosts a thriving automotive marketplace adjacent to the Fashion Square Mall and charming Old Town Scottsdale. Gooding & Company has brought a refined approach to this lively and well-established event, offering stunning vehicles across marques and eras. When our viewing showcase opens on Wednesday of Arizona Auction Week, enthusiasts will be able to enjoy the high-quality assortment of vehicles up for auction and connect with Gooding & Company’s top-notch staff and fellow collectors. Over the past eight years in Scottsdale, Gooding & Company has consistently raised the bar for the collector car year, with records that reset the market. Our exceptional collection often becomes the talk of the town – and beyond.

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January 25-28, 2017

Mid America Motorcylces by Mecum Auctions, Southpoint Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada

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January 25-29, 2017

Cavallino Classic Invitational, Palm Beach, FL

The 26th Annual PalmBeach Cavallino Classic will be presented in the beautiful and exotic setting of Palm Beach, Florida on January 25 to 29, 2017. This extraordinary gathering is a multi-day convention
for automotive owners and collectors, with participants and their 400 rare, exotic and classic automobiles attending from the Americas, Europe and Asia. The premier event of the weekend is the Concorso d’Eleganza on the front lawn of the famous Breakers Hotel, on Saturday, January 28. 140 immaculate Ferrari automobiles are judged by leading international experts for elegance and originality, for the important Class Awards and the distinguished Major Cups, along with the prestigious
Cavallino Cup for Best in Show.

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January 26, 2017

Bonham’s Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction, Rio Hotel & Casino

Bonhams’ seventh annual Las Vegas motorcycle auction will take place Thursday, January 26, 2017 at the Rio Hotel & Casino. The annual Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction is known for selling extremely rare and collectible motorcycles at world-record prices, and if you haven’t been you should check it out, even if you’re not buying. The barn finds, new old stock bikes, antique pioneers and GP race bikes bring buyers from around the globe. If you’re a seller, consignments are now being invited and makes, models and vintages of all of eras are being sought.

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February 24-26, 2017

McCormick's Palm Springs Collector Car Auction

Mccormick's produces 2 large Classic Car Auctions per year in Palm Springs, CA. The auctions are open to the general public and dealers are also welcome. Each event features over 500 Classic & Exotic cars. The events are held in February & November each year. The venue is The Spa Resort Casino in downtown Palm Springs, just steps away from many resorts, shopping and fine dining.

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March 9, 2017

Bonham’s Auction, Amelia Island, Florida

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March 10, 2017

Gooding Auctions, Amelia Island, Florida



Gooding & Company’s East Coast auction generates excitement and record sales. Held at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation, a classic beachfront resort near Jacksonville, Florida, this venue caters to the enthusiast looking for a relaxed yet rewarding winter getaway. Held on the Friday before the celebrated Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, Gooding & Company’s auction showcases a curated lineup of cars, inviting spirited bidding in a comfortable setting. Since debuting at Amelia Island in 2010, Gooding & Company’s prices realized have more than doubled, earning the event its reputation as the premier East Coast collector car auction.

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March 10-11, 2017

RM Auctions - Amelia Island, Florida

Since 1999, RM Sotheby’s has held the esteemed role of the official auction house of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, presenting an incredible selection of the world’s most desirable automobiles at the prestigious Ritz-Carlton while setting numerous auction benchmarks in the process. Led by a terrific series of best-of-category automobiles, our 2016 Amelia Island sale was a resounding success. Attracting a standing room only crowd with bidders hailing from 20 countries, the auction generated over $38 million in sales. The 2017 event is expected to build on this success, bringing another carefully curated roster of elegant coachbuilt classics, important sports and racing cars, and late model collectibles to market.

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March 10-12, 2017

Amelia Island, Florida Concours D'Elegance, The Ritz-Carlton

"Cars are freedom. They give us the power to go where we want when we want. They demand our constant attention and involvement and the really great ones reward excellence. They can be objects of  desire, beauty, utility, convenience and entertainment all at once and the people who love them know it. That’s why we keep doing this" - BILL WARNER, Amelia Island Concours D'Elegance Founder & Chairman

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March 25-26, 2017

Gran Concourso Internacional De Elegancia, Huixquilucan, México

Club Jaguar of Mexico City hosts over 500 classic cars, comprised of 25 classic car clubs, including 25 of our own pristine Jaguars. Set in the mountains, 20 miles on the outskirts of Mexico City. This is the largest concours in Mexico. People attend from all over the world. It is a wonderful setting with spectacular and warm hospitality. This is a must-attend event, so mark your calendar!

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March 31-April 2, 2017

Auctions America Sale - Fort Lauderdale, FL

Celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2017, Auctions America’s Fort Lauderdale sale is renowned as South Florida’s premier collector car auction. In 2016, the multi-day event generated $20 million in sales, with bidders hailing from 41 states across the U.S., along with 18 countries; nearly 40 percent represented new clients to Auctions America. The 2017 offering promises to continue the grand tradition. Defined by its quality and diversity, it will offer something for all tastes and budgets from American classics to European sports cars, Detroit muscle, hot rods and customs.

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April 6-8, 2017

Barrett-Jackson Auctions - Palm Beach, Florida

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April 7-9, 2017

Concours d'Elegance, La Jolla, CA

View 300+ spectacular, exemplary vehicles situated along the Pacific Ocean, peruse the offerings of our fabulous vendors, and check out the exciting offers from our top-notch sponsors.

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April 22, 2017

Worldwide Auctions Texas Classic Auction

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May 6-7, 2017

Keels and Wheels Concours D'Elegance, Seabrook, Texas

Keels & Wheels established itself among the nations top concours events while in pursuit of multiple goals. The goals include raising significant funds for the charities the show supports, $1.4 million so far, while producing the best possible event that would draw participants and spectators from every corner of the country and even Europe. Side benefits have included an economic impact of over $3.5 million each year on the local community while simultaneously raising national awareness of Seabrook.

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May 7, 2017

Greystone Mansion Concours d'Elegance, Beverly Hills, CA

On Sunday, May 7, 2017 from 10am-4pm, the gates of the historic Greystone Estate will open to one of the most elegant and prestigious car shows in the United States, the 8th annual Greystone Mansion Concours d’Elegance. Over 150 classic and exotic cars and motorcycles will compete at this world-class event for “Best of Show,” “Peoples’ Choice” and “Best Per Class” among many other awards. Past winners include a 1904 Schacht Model K voted Best in Class, 1912 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost for Best of show, a Best in Class 1963 Shelby Cobra and a 1965 Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ for Best of Show.

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May 11-13, 2017

Auctions America Auburn Spring Auction, Auburn, Indiana

The first of two annual sales held at the historic Auburn Auction Park, Auburn Spring has quickly emerged as a spring tradition for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Soak up the auction excitement as hundreds of vehicles go under the gavel or uncover treasures in the swap meet and car corral. An exciting addition for 2017, for the first time in history, the Antique Automobile Club of America and the Classic Car Club of America will come together to host a joint meet for their members, making the Classic Car Capital of America, and more specifically, the Auburn Auction Park, a must-visit destination.

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May 21, 2017

Muckenthaler Motor Car Festival, Muckenthaler Cultural Center, Fullerton, CA

The Muckenthaler Motor Car committee has dedicated more than 20 years to enriching and improving the lives of children through arts and education programs through the Muck Foundation. It is the strong relationship between this committee and the Center that make the Motor Car Festival possible. The committee is proud to play a key role and contribute their time and energy to the premier fundraiser of the year. First conducted in 1994, the Muckenthaler Motor Car Festival features beautiful and rare automobiles, displayed on the 8 rolling acres of lush lawn and aged trees of the Muckenthaler Mansion. The annual affair has brought in thousand for charity and is looking to the future to increase its success and continue its generous tradition. Without the support of the wonderful volunteers on the committee, this event wouldn't be possible. 

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May 21, 2017

JOCLA 2017 Concours at The Muckenthaler Cultural Center in Fullerton, CA

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June 25, 2017

Jaguar Jamboree Car Show and Smokin' BBQ, Classic Showcase, Oceanside, CA

Members from the San Diego Jaguar Club, Inland Empire Jaguar Club, and the Jaguar Owners Club of Los Angeles are invited to join together and enjoy a day of fine fellowship, great food, and participation in the showing of your Jaguars! The Tri-clubs of Southern California will caravan independently to Classic Showcase in Oceanside, and there will be guided tours of the facility, a Q/A session with our Master Technician on Jaguar restoration, followed by a smoking BBQ on our patio. After the BBQ, we'll hold the car show and raffle for prizes. We hope to see all of you here for the 3rd Jaguar Jamboree!

More Info Coming Soon
   







This is a quarterly newsletter that is compliments of Classic Showcase, Inc., which caters to the classic car collector and enthusiast communities. We are always open to ideas and suggestions on improving and helping the collector and enthusiast with new and timely information, and would like to hear your feedback, comments, and other ideas you may have for future editions! Please contact the editor at webmaster@classicshowcase.com. We hope you have enjoyed the information provided, and that you found it useful! We wish you and yours happy motoring during the Winter season!

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