Re: Best way to start an engine after years of sitting

Posted by Ernie Vitucci On 2020/9/8 22:26:50

Good Evening...You may receive many differing opinions...In addition to your check list, it is often a good idea to try to determine why the car was taken off the road...frequently it was because the owner was unhappy with it for some reason. Many machines that I have worked on that sat for a long time had all sorts of gick (technical term) in the oil pan and many had clogged up oil pumps. To me one should pull the pan and clean it out and remove and clean out the oil pump, look at the main and rod bearings, and then open the valve train and clean out that area as well. Definitely soak the rings prior to attempting to start the car. Check the wiring, check and replace or clean the points, clean the rotor, check the condenser and coil...if you can hand crank the oil girl to break the rings loose or just get her turning over gently...put her back together and with a fresh battery see if she will start. Before you try to move the car under its own power, check the transmission and rear end for oil and it is best to remove and clean and repack the wheel bearings...many a nice old car was badly damaged by the rush to start and drive it...do your home work, be gentle, and patient...then start and move it under its own power...Just my humble opinion...Ernie in Arizona