Indoor Car Show Tips
We all have attended custom car shows and wondered why certain cars are entered, confident our own ride is way nicer and certainly much more worthy of the attention. Most of us have, at some point, entered a car in an indoor show and felt either elated or devastated when we one or lost, particularly the latter if (in our opinion) to a much inferior car(s). Since a custom car is a very personal expression of your own taste, it is a bit like baring your soul in public to criticism and praise from your peers, so follow these tips and you will dramatically increase your odds at getting your ride fully appreciated by the judges and public alike.

It has been proven that, when you meet someone for the first time, you have about 10 seconds to make a favorable first impression. They will judge you from that perspective repeatedly. This is also true when displaying your car for the first time. This is why an outstanding color or paint scheme will go a long way to creating that initial impression. It will draw people like a magnet to scrutinize your ride further (isn’t that why you put it in the show in the first place?). The great thing about entering is it gives you a deadline to make sure everything is finished. The rest of the package has to measure up of course so follow these tips to create a winner:

Have a decent looking display, including floor covering, stanchions and complimentary lighting - use your imagination – this is “show business” and will get you a top spot.

Have a professionally done Sign with brief descriptions.

Clean and detail everywhere, pay attention to everything (including fasteners, wiring tires etc)

Understand indoor lighting shows paint flaws (such as dust and swirl marks) that often do not appear outside, get your car in similar light prior to address this.

If you have a photo history of it being built, put it in a small album for judges to see and appreciate the hard work that’s been done.

In street rod classes – innovate engineering and unique one-off parts score large compared to parts bought out off a catalogue – make sure these are pointed out.

Most sanctioning bodies require the vehicle to be capable of running and have safety rules (unhook the battery and drain most of the gas) that could get you disqualified if not followed so check the rules.

Make sure you have a fire extinguisher and seat belts.

Bring cleanup supplies and a duster to maintain it spotless.

The whole package is necessary to win: paint, interior, engine, chassis, display, polishing/chrome so concentrate on your weak points to be truly show worthy.

Apply early to be accepted and get a good spot.

Don’t interfere when the judges are around your car, they have a job to do - your ride and display should speak for itself.

Don’t be intimidated by circuit cars, they rarely win over a local.

Your best chances of winning are the first time it is shown so make the effort to do it right.

We are our own worst critics, understand the judges and public spend only a short time inspecting it – don’t worry about small flaws, they are usually missed in the once over as the overall impression forms their opinion – there are no 100% perfect cars

After the show, politely ask to see your judging sheet so you know where you can improve.

John