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Laying up your car in wartime, 1942
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Laying up your car in wartime, 1942
Laying up your car? Some practical hints and tips, article by Alan Hess in Britannia & Eve, May 1942. The basic petrol ration was withdrawn at this time, leading many motorists to store their cars. Date: 1942
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Media ID 23361726
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
1942 Alan Article Basic Britannia Hess Hints Laying Petrol Practical Ration Tips
EDITORS COMMENTS
During the tumultuous year of 1942, as the Second World War continued to escalate, the British government implemented a series of measures to conserve resources, including the withdrawal of the basic petrol ration. In response, many motorists were forced to consider the laying up of their cars to preserve fuel and reduce their dependence on this increasingly scarce commodity. In the May 1942 issue of Britannia & Eve, motoring journalist Alan Hess provided some practical hints and tips for those considering this option. The print depicts a well-prepared garage, where a car has been carefully laid up for the duration of the war. The vehicle's tires have been deflated and covered with protective sheets to prevent cracking, while the battery has been disconnected and the fuel tank topped up with a preservative to prevent the fuel from deteriorating. The car's engine has been given a final tune-up, and essential documents, such as the registration and insurance papers, have been securely stored. Hess's article offered further advice, including the importance of draining the cooling system and lubricating the moving parts to prevent rust and seizure. He also suggested that motorists consider removing the spark plugs and storing them in paraffin to prevent fouling. For those with garages large enough to accommodate multiple vehicles, Hess recommended stacking tires vertically to maximize space. The laying up of cars during wartime was a practical solution to the fuel crisis, and the print serves as a poignant reminder of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the British people during this challenging period. With the threat of rationing still looming, these tips and tricks remain relevant today for those seeking to conserve fuel and reduce their carbon footprint.
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