Starting stored engines

David Bahr · 03-06-2002, 07:40 PM

What is the best procedure for starting an engine that hasn't run for a long time?

I recently acquired a 1973 911T that has been in storage for 2.5 years. It hasn't been started in that time. When it last ran, it was merely parked, not prepared for storage in any way.

Here's what I intend to do so far:
1. Rebuild the Weber carbs (it was converted)
2. Drain old gas and replace fuel filter
3. Change oil and oil filter (pre-fill oil filter)
4. Change air filter
5. New cap and rotor
6. Existing plug wires are goofy, so new plug wires
7. New plugs
8. Batteries are on tricklecharger
9. While plugs are out, squirt motor oil in cylinders and turn engine by hand many times
10. With everything put back together, remove coil wire and crank starter until oil pressure comes up.
11. Replace coil wire
12. Pray
13. Start it up, let idle until temp comes up then go for a cautious drive.

Any other ideas?

Thanks!

ffilips · 03-06-2002, 07:54 PM

I'd drain the gas tank, inspect and have cleaned if needed, The fuel lines as well. I'd also make sure the oil tank and lines are pretty clean as well.

Formerly Steve Wilkinson · 03-07-2002, 03:58 AM

The only thing I'd change in your sequence is leave the plugs out while you crank it to establish oil pressure. Much easier and quicker to get the pressure up with the engine spinning easily. then put the plugs back in and fire it up. The oil won't go away during the time you're putting the plugs back in.

Stephan

89911 · 03-07-2002, 04:21 AM

A battery that has sat uncharged for that long is DOA. Even if you get it to start, it most likely won't hold a charge. Good time to replace with an Optima.

jtf914 · jtf914's Garage

I'd agree with ffilips check that tank for rust. My car sat for about ten years before I bought it, I did all the things you listed above, and the car started without incident. Then I started having problems getting the webers tuned properly so I pulled them and they were filled with rusty gas. I had to start all over with the fuel system.

If your tank is rusty you can use POR-15, or you can take it to a radiator shop and have it boiled.

Justin

robs · 03-07-2002, 04:54 AM

I would only make two full revolutions by hand, just to see if everything moves freely. Disconnect the fuel pump relay before using the starter to build up oil pressure.

Regards,

jabb · 03-07-2002, 04:59 AM

Definetly check the tank for Rust as already mentioned.
I would also remove the engine shroud on the top of the engine while you have the Carbs off and check for any criters that may have built nesting in the cylinders. This can lead to cooling problems or cylinder failures if there is nesting around the cylinders.

I would also check the brake lines and brake condition before taking the car for a ride. Letting it sit and come up to temp.... may not be a good idea.... start it.... check for oil leaks then go for a short ride around the block a couple of times and check for oil leaks again..... Plus do all the stuff mentioned above.

You do not know if the temp gauge works correctly so letting it come up to temp.... may actually overheat the engine if it does not operate properly.

Good Luck

bonedaddy · 03-07-2002, 12:30 PM

I third the motion about checking the tank for rust, scum, and all sorts of evil that seems to lurk in aging fuel. If it's not in very good shape, spend the time to treat it and get it cleaned up. I went through a lot of unnecessary trouble because I did NOT do this after my car sat for a few years. Good luck!