1971 Coupe Not Started Since 1996

[John L.]

Hello All, there is an original owner 1971 Coupe coming up for sale (estate sale) with 34,000 miles on it that has piqued my interest. The car is all original, has been garaged but not started since 1996, thus sitting for 20 years. In purchasing such a car, I realize all the mechanicals need to be restored to make it road worthy, however, concerned about possibility engine might be frozen as I understand nothing was done to prep the engine for long term storage. Talking about a base motor car. Am I being overly concerned about this? Thanks for the feedbck

[Chris H.]

Re: 1971 Coupe Not Started Since 1996

John if it were me I'd pull the spark plugs and spray WD40 or equivalent penetrating oil in all the cylinders, wait a few days and then try to turn the motor over by hand using a socket on the crank pulley.

[Edward J.]

Re: 1971 Coupe Not Started Since 1996

Hello All, there is an original owner 1971 Coupe coming up for sale (estate sale) with 34,000 miles on it that has piqued my interest. The car is all original, has been garaged but not started since 1996, thus sitting for 20 years. In purchasing such a car, I realize all the mechanicals need to be restored to make it road worthy, however, concerned about possibility engine might be frozen as I understand nothing was done to prep the engine for long term storage. Talking about a base motor car. Am I being overly concerned about this? Thanks for the feedbck

John, it was not all that long ago I started a 70 LT1 that had been sitting for about the same length, but was stored with out fuel in the tank or carb. and after cranking it with coil unplugged to get oil pressure, I just hooked a long rubber hose to pump and a gas can and cranked it til it started, and ran perfectly. this was a original low mileage car also. not to say that all cars do the same from sitting for a long period, If you need more advice when it come time let us know. My advice is if possible try and start car before purchase, if it runs at least you know where you stand with engine. It will be a given the brake system will need a complete hydraulic system overhaul and fuel tank and lines cleaned out.

[Patrick H.]

Re: 1971 Coupe Not Started Since 1996

If it is truly - TRULY - original, I'd think about whether or not it qualifies for Bowtie judging. If so, it doesn't even have to run.

To make it roadworthy you might find that some of the mechanicals need some attention, but to say that all the parts need to be restored is likely not correct. I've resuscitated some cars that have been sitting for years, and they required a lot less attention than you might think.

[Russ S.]

Re: 1971 Coupe Not Started Since 1996

The condition of the engine would have a great deal to do with the storage conditions such as what state it is stored in. High humidity or dry state?

[Terry M.]

Re: 1971 Coupe Not Started Since 1996

The condition of the engine would have a great deal to do with the storage conditions such as what state it is stored in. High humidity or dry state?

In addition the engine condition will depend on the mechanical condition when it was parked. If any of the coolant has entered a cylinder you will be SOL. Not changing coolant for two decades can be a disaster, although some coolants will last longer in these conditions than others. The green stuff is particularly bad for this type of abuse.

Chris Hewit's suggestion is a good one. You may also need to drain the old fuel (sniff test at the fuel filler cap.), possibly clean the carburetor if necessary (But be leery of that if the car might qualify as a Bow Tie candidate. We love to see original carburetor gaskets.). Expect the fuel pump to die soon after starting (If it isn't DOA already). If it is manual trans with no A/C expect the aluminum radiator to give up the ghost soon after the engine starts. There is a slightly lesser chance that a copper radiator might do the same.

[Mark E.]

Re: 1971 Coupe Not Started Since 1996

Change all engine related fluids and filters, including the fuel as already suggested.

Rebuild the carb.

Rebuild or replace the water and fuel pumps (otherwise their seals will probably fail in short order)

Remove the plugs and squirt light engine oil into the cylinders.

Wait a day or longer then prime the engine without turning it. I like to remove the valve covers then prime until all the pushrods are squirting oil. This may take several minutes using a high speed drill, so be patient. Also check for good oil pressure. This pressurizes the valve train and bottom end before moving it.

Continue priming the engine while turning the crank a couple of revolutions by hand.

Reinstall the distributer and a new battery. Then crank the engine with the plugs removed. Look for good oil pressure.

Preset the timing, install new plugs and it's ready to start. Listen for even cranking and odd sounds, and watch for leaks. It a good practice to keep a fire extinguisher nearby to handle surprises.

Good luck.

[Tom B.]

Re: 1971 Coupe Not Started Since 1996

This is all good advice but since you don't own this car I'm not sure what the owner will let you do before purchase. You should ask the estate if they can show that the engine will turn or allow you to see if you can get it to turn. Check the fluid levels and condition. Negotiate a price keeping in mind all of the other things that may need attention and take your chances. Good luck. It might be a gem.

Tom