Beep, beep! Is there anything more exciting than the first pedal of the season? With the school holidays drawing near and Goodwood Revival just around the corner, we’ve compiled a list of important checks to make before your pedal car hits the road. Plus some handy links to all the J40 pedal car parts you might need!
Checks After Storage
As with any car, it’s important to check your brake! Ensure the brake system is working correctly. If the car rolls easily when the handbrake is applied, it may need manually adjusting. We supply a handy brake adjusting rod which is just the ticket for loose brakes.
Sometimes after decades of wear and tightening brakes, the brake pad may need replacing. At Austin Pedal Cars, we stock everything you could need for your pedal car, made in the UK and exclusively designed with the official Austin logo. Our team are always on hand with expert advice.
Next, observe the two tubes on each pedal assembly. One has the pedal pivot rod through it, the other houses the pedal rod. On each pedal tube you will see a little opening. This often-overlooked aperture is designed for the application of grease to your pedal system. Apply grease here, and with a bit of use, the grease will gradually manoeuvre throughout the tube.
While your greasing, check your wheels run smoothly and apply grease to the bearings.
Finishing Touches
It’s also a good time to cast your eyes over your battery: confirm there is no swelling, leakages or chemical degradation visible. We supply replacement battery boxes, which are available here.
Once you’re certain your pedal car is ready for action, there’s one final step: waxing. Not only a cosmetic step to bring out the gleam in your pedal car’s paintwork, waxing also acts as a barrier against sun damage. Much like putting suncream on the kids before heading into the direct sun, your J40 will benefit from a layer of protective wax. Just be sure not to mix up the two.
Waxing will also allow rain to run smoothly off your J40. Although we don’t advise using your pedal car on rainy days, sudden showers are always a possibility – we’ve had our fair share at the Settrington Cup over the years.
Before Storing Your Pedal Car
As the sun goes down on summer, when it’s time to put your pedal car to bed for the season, there’s a few things to consider to ensure your car is well-cared for between uses. Always be mindful of where you store your pedal car for any length of time: it must be a dry place, free from rain and dust. It’s a good idea to give your pedal car one final wax before storing – this will continue to protect your pedal car from the elements.
If you haven’t got one already, a pedal car cover is the perfect way to preserve your pedal car’s condition. Our luxurious soft car covers, made from a high quality 100% polyester fabric with a fleecy lining, are available in six classic colours. Keep your J40 cosy and in style.
The correct tyre pressure is crucial to avoid misshaping: 25-35 PSI is the correct range, although older tyres should stick to 25 PSI maximum, to avoid putting unnecessary strain on the tyres.
Tyres can become permanently misshapen when left for a long time, forming a memory around the unpumped tyre. When repumped, they may be off centre.
The original tyres fitted to the Austin J40's were Dunlop cord balloon 12½ by 2 ¼ but are no longer available but the tyre we stock is the correct "Balloon" section, and looks great on every J40. Available here.
Final Checks
It’s always good practice to disconnect your battery as a precaution.
To avoid your Austin making any unexpected journeys of their own volition, our plastic wheel chocks with foam feet are perfect for stopping your J40 rolling.
Don't be tempted to use your J40 seats as a storage shelf. There is a serious risk of the seat panel bowing if anything heavy remains on the seats for a while.
Happy Pedalling!
At Austin Pedal Cars, we specialise in the manufacture and supply of Austin J40 pedal car parts and accessories, offering the world’s largest selection of in-stock parts available for immediate dispatch. Refreshing your pedal car with our parts and following this guidance, your Austin J40 will keep bringing joy for generations to come. Happy pedalling!
