Starting an engine that has sat for 10 years

[Dan D]

I have a 1600 engine that has sat for 10 years. The engine was rebuilt before it went into storage and has about 5,000 miles on it.

Any advice on how I would go about trying to start it?

Thanks,

Dan

[h~moto]

One thing I do is disable the engine from starting (such as disconnecting the coil wire) and crank the starter enough times to get the oil pressure light to go off. This helps to insure that the oil has circulated when the engine fires up.

[Dan D]

Do you think I should change the oil first ?

[hercdriver]

Yes. I would change the oil.

I'd also find out why the previous owner quit driving it. If it was having issues ten years ago, you can be sure that they are still there and then some.

If it were me, I'd treat it like a new engine and .....
Change the oil.
Adjust the valves.
Static set the timing.
Pull the spark plugs out, get some kind of lubricant in the top of the cylinders (STP, Marvin's Mytesry Oil, etc). Check the condition of the plugs and set their gap. Turn the engine over with the starter until the oil light goes out. Reinstall the plugs.
Try starting it. If it won't fire up, try starting it with starter fluid.

Also check the engine for debris. Mice love to fill the engine tins with nesting material.

[KKV270]

Yes. I would change the oil.

I'd also find out why the previous owner quit driving it. If it was having issues ten years ago, you can be sure that they are still there and then some.

If it were me, I'd treat it like a new engine and .....
Change the oil.
Adjust the valves.
Static set the timing.
Pull the spark plugs out, get some kind of lubricant in the top of the cylinders (STP, Marvin's Mytesry Oil, etc). Check the condition of the plugs and set their gap. Turn the engine over with the starter until the oil light goes out. Reinstall the plugs.
Try starting it. If it won't fire up, try starting it with starter fluid.

Also check the engine for debris. Mice love to fill the engine tins with nesting material.

I was reading through and I think i will follow the same advice. I will give you the feedback soon.

[Dan D]

Thanks that sounds like a good procedure to follow.

[KKV270]

Hi.

Now that I'm up to the valves clearaance, kindly help me get some feedback on various adjustments that have worked for you guys out there...and why you opted for what you went for.

Mine is a 1300cc engine.

[hercdriver]

Valve clearance (intake and exhaust) should be set to .006 in (.15mm) when the engine is cold.


The actual procedure can be seen here....


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wtNARLdF58

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpH7VftH3_I