NO MORE MOISTURE
MEACO DEHUMIDIFIER £259.99
01483 234900; www.meaco.com
We all know that damp storage conditions can hasten the deterioration of a classic, so it’s important to tackle the issue before it becomes a problem. Meaco’s DD8L Zambezi dehumidifier uses a desiccant system that is reckoned to be particularly suited to use in low-temperature environments such as garages, and is said to be capable of withdrawing as much as eight litres of water per day from the atmosphere. The control system is clear and simple to understand, utilising a display and four buttons. There are three fan-speed settings, plus additional modes to help trap mould spores and even assist laundry drying times. A built-in humidstat lets you control humidity down to 40% in 5% increments, while the water tray has a threelitre capacity. We found that the machine was easy to use and very effective, and it even comes with a three-year warranty.
SPRIDGET FLYWHEEL $485.28 www.fidanza.com
Those seeking to eke out more performance from their MG Midget or Austin-healey Sprite will be excited to hear about flywheel specialist Fidanza’s latest offering. The new lightweight aluminium unit ensures faster throttle response as well as greater engine braking, and it features a replaceable friction plate, meaning that you don’t have to change the complete flywheel when the surface wears out. Two versions are available: one for 1961-’63 models with the 948cc A-series, and the other for 1275cc 1966-’74 models.
LED WORKSHOP LAMP £59.99 www.amazon.co.uk
Short gloomy days and long winter nights greatly reduce spannering time, so we were happy to test this LED workshop light from Worx. The portable unit is rated at 1500 lumens – equivalent to a 100W lightbulb – and the rechargeable lithium-ion battery that is shared across the Worx range gives a run time of two hours. It’s a versatile piece of kit, too. You can hang it from the underside of a bonnet, hook it over a bench or desk, or place it on the floor, while the lamp itself can be rotated through 360º. It feels tough, with a spongy rubber grip and chunky, shock-absorbing body. We also think that the build quality is superb for the price.
DEMERBOX $399 www.demerbox.com
If you want an audio system for your classic there are several options, but we find that some cars just don’t lend themselves to an installation – or you may not want to modify yours – which is where the Demerbox could come in handy. Using a Pelican Case for the base, the two speakers are fed by a powerful amp meaning that music can be played at a volume that some portable units would struggle to achieve. Phones can be connected via Bluetooth or the included cable, and there is a USB charging port. The lithium-ion battery is reckoned to last for about 50 hours, and with the port plug installed the whole unit is fully waterproof. As a bonus, there is enough room inside to fit a hearty lunch or essential spares and it is small enough to carry with you. Although currently only available from the US, UK and European outlets are in the offing, so check the website for updates. LONG-REACH PLIERS £68.42 www.lasertools.co.uk
Anyone who has delved into the darker recesses of a hot engine bay will appreciate these long-reach pliers from Laser Tools. The set includes three pairs of pliers, each benefiting from a slim design and useful 400mm length. Straight, 45º and 90º angled jaws should suit almost any situation, and a narrow jaw profile plus positive, non-slip grip should ensure good purchase on fixings and fasteners. They should last well, too, thanks to tough, chrome vanadium steel construction, while the handles are coated with a comfortable, hard-wearing plastic. WIRELESS SECURITY £149.99 www.blinkforhome.co.uk Keeping an eye on your classic needn’t break the bank thanks to the Blink XT One camera. It’s easy to set up and has no subscription charges, while full HD video is supported, along with motion detection, low-light illumination and night vision. The system has a temperature sensor and is weatherproof, while instant alerts and a live view can be activated. Just fit batteries, plug in the wifi module and position the camera, using the Blink app to finish the set-up.
BRAKE DUST REPELLANT £10.54 www.armorall.com
Grime can be quick to build up and particularly difficult to remove from both wire wheels and the intricate alloy designs found on more modern classics. Conveniently, this spray from Armorall forms a protective barrier to help prevent the accumulation of brake dust and contaminants. As well as keeping your wheels cleaner for longer, it is also claimed to make removing dirt easier. The formula is easy to use and each application is reckoned to last for a couple of weeks – or longer if you only drive your car sparingly. HAND-HELD VACUUM CLEANER £129 www.kobold.vorwerk.co.uk The lightweight VC100 from Kobold is a handy car vacuum with two suction settings. It can run for up to 20 minutes on a full charge, which takes four hours using the supplied docking station, while battery life is shown on an LCD screen. The unit tips the scales at 650g and power is rated at 65W, while noise has been measured at 75DBA so it’s reasonably quiet.