Tips for Caring for Your Authentic, Reproduced Stagecoach

Having an authentic, reproduced stagecoach designed is a significant investment, an investment that you should work to protect. How well you take care of the stagecoach will determine not just how well it looks and functions but also how long it will last you. Make sure you know how to properly take care of your stagecoach to ensure it is protected.

Storage Area

Start with the right type of storage area. An environment that is too cold or too hot can affect the appearance of the stagecoach as well as its function. In terms of cold, in extreme temperatures, this can cause the paint to crack, and in terms of heat, particularly in high moisture areas, this can lead to rust development. It is important that you store the stagecoach in a climate-controlled area.

Cleaning

Always clean the stagecoach after each use. Dust, dirt, and other debris might seem harmless, but these particles can scratch the surface of the paint and cause etching. To clean the exterior of the stagecoach, rinsing with low-pressured water is generally sufficient, and a wipe down with a clean cloth is enough to clean the interior surfaces of the stagecoach. If you don't use the stagecoach, a general cleaning is still recommended periodically.

Oiling

It's also a good idea to oil the stagecoach periodically. Oiling helps reduce friction and allows the stagecoach to maneuver more smoothly; this is key to minimizing structural damage. Start your efforts with a focus on the springs that support the shackles, as these areas generally require more lubrication. You can then remove the hub caps to place oil in the recessed area. Just make sure you are using a hub-approved oil, as other oil types are too heavy.

Wheels

Make it a point to inspect the condition of your stagecoach wheels routinely. This is an especially important step if you don't use the carriage often. When wheels remain in the same spot for an extended period of time, they often develop weak spots. These weak spots lower the overall integrity of the wheel, pose safety issues, and shorten the lifespan of the tires. To minimize this problem, routinely change the position of the tires by rotating the stagecoach. If you use the stagecoach often, this might not be a problem.  

The more effort you put towards caring for your stagecoach, the better the result. Ensure you are working hard toward this goal. Talk to a company such as Arizona Stagecoach Manufacturing Co. to learn more about their offerings and proper care practices.