Protecting your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible is paramount to maintaining its beauty and value. A high-quality car cover is your first line of defense against the elements, whether you’re shielding it from harsh sunlight, rain, snow, or dust. This guide provides comprehensive instructions for installing and caring for your car cover, ensuring your classic convertible remains in pristine condition.
Car Cover Installation Instructions for Your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible
Proper installation is key to maximizing the protective benefits of your car cover and preventing any potential damage to your vehicle’s finish. Follow these steps to correctly fit your cover:
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Preparation is Key: Before you begin, ensure your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible is clean and completely dry. Never apply a car cover to a wet vehicle as trapped moisture can lead to paint issues. Also, ensure the car has cooled down, especially after being driven or exposed to sunlight.
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Position the Cover: Unfold your car cover and carefully position it over your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible. Identify the front of the cover – this is usually indicated by a tag, label, or logo. Ensure the front of the cover aligns with the front of your vehicle.
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Antenna Considerations: Morgan Aero 8 Convertibles may have various antenna styles. If your antenna is not retractable or removable, use the antenna patch provided with your cover. (See the “Antenna Patch Installation” section below for detailed instructions.) When using the patch, carefully guide the antenna through the designated opening before proceeding to cover the rest of the car.
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Mirror Pockets (If Applicable): If your car cover is designed with mirror pockets, gently slip them over the side mirrors of your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible. Ensure they are properly positioned to prevent stress on the mirrors and cover.
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Extend Over Bumpers: Carefully extend the cover over both the front and rear bumpers of your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible. Ensure a snug and secure fit around the contours of your vehicle for maximum protection against the elements.
Car Cover Removal Instructions
Removing your car cover correctly is as important as installing it. This prevents scratches and ensures the longevity of both your cover and your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible’s paintwork:
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Unhook from Underneath: Begin by unhooking any straps or securing mechanisms from beneath both the front and rear bumpers of your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible.
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Fold Sides Inward: Lift the edges of the cover and gently fold both sides towards the center of the vehicle’s roof. This will create a central strip approximately 2 feet (60 cm) wide along the top of your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible.
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Fold from Front to Back: Starting at the front of the vehicle, begin folding the cover in sections of about three feet (1 meter), working your way towards the back of your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible. This method helps to keep the outer, potentially dirty, side of the cover contained and prevents it from dragging across your car’s clean surface.
Antenna Patch Installation for Non-Retractable Antennas
For Morgan Aero 8 Convertible models with non-retractable antennas, the antenna patch ensures a snug and weatherproof fit:
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Position and Mark: Fit the car cover loosely over your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible to pinpoint the exact location where the antenna makes contact with the cover.
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Identify Front: Ensure the front of the car cover is correctly oriented and begin smoothly pulling the cover towards the rear of the vehicle.
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Mark Antenna Point: When you reach the antenna, carefully mark the precise spot on the cover where the antenna touches.
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Create a Small Incision: Carefully make a small, minimal cut at the marked location. The goal is to create just enough space for the antenna to pass through, minimizing any exposure to the elements.
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Apply Antenna Patch: Align the antenna patch over the cut you’ve made, allowing the antenna to slide through the patch opening.
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Seal and Protect: The patch effectively reseals the cover around the antenna, maintaining a secure and protective barrier for your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible.
Utilizing the Cable Lock System for Enhanced Security
For added security, especially when storing your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible outdoors, consider using a cable lock system. Many premium car covers are designed to be compatible with these systems.
The cable lock set typically includes a steel cable, a lock, and a key. Car covers often feature grommet holes at the bottom edges, designed for cable lock integration.
To install:
- Thread the steel cable through the loop at one end and securely fasten it to itself at the other, creating a secure loop.
- Pass the looped cable beneath your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible, threading it through the grommet holes on each side of the cover.
- Secure the cable lock to fasten the ends together, ensuring the cover is securely held in place.
Cable Lock Installation
Alt: Secure cable lock installation on a car cover grommet, demonstrating anti-theft protection for a Morgan Aero 8 Convertible.
Note: Cable lock sets are often included with higher-end car covers, such as the Gold Shield 5L, offering an extra layer of protection and theft deterrence for your valuable Morgan Aero 8 Convertible.
Important Warnings for Car Cover Use on Your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible
To safeguard your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible and the car cover, please heed these crucial warnings:
Repainted Vehicles: If your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible has been recently repainted, exercise caution. Applying a car cover to fresh paint can potentially cause damage. Consult with your paint specialist or body shop for guidance on car cover use after repainting.
Freezing Conditions: In rare instances of heavy rain followed by freezing temperatures, the car cover might freeze to the surface of your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible. Do NOT attempt to forcefully remove a frozen cover. Instead, gently pour warm water over the iced areas to melt the ice and carefully lift the cover. If you encounter resistance, stop immediately and apply more warm water until the cover lifts freely.
Windy Conditions: If you live in a windy area or plan to store your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible for an extended period, utilize the provided buckles or straps to securely fasten the cover underneath the front and rear of the car. This precaution is essential even if you are using a cable lock. Car covers are not a substitute for garage storage in extreme weather. In high winds, regularly check for any flapping or looseness. Wind getting under the cover can lead to it being dislodged or cause damage to the cover itself and potentially your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible Car Cover
- Never cover a wet vehicle: Always ensure your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible is completely dry before applying the cover.
- Avoid covering a hot exhaust: Allow the exhaust system to cool down fully before placing the cover.
- Keep windows closed: Ensure all windows and the convertible top of your Morgan Aero 8 are fully closed before covering.
- Caution with fresh wax: If you have recently waxed your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible, allow sufficient drying time before using a car cover.
- Convertible Top Up: Always cover your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible with the top in the closed and locked position.
- Let the car cool: Do not apply a car cover immediately after driving or after the car has been sitting in direct sunlight. Allow your Morgan Aero 8 Convertible to cool down completely first.
By adhering to these installation, removal, and care instructions, you will maximize the lifespan of your car cover and ensure the continued protection and beauty of your prized Morgan Aero 8 Convertible. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in damage to your vehicle, for which we cannot be held responsible.