Guys, I am looking at buying a 67 GS 400 with a 1970 455 in it that has been sitting for about 4 years in enclosed storage. The motor has about 10,000 miles on it and has oil in it and no apparent leaks. What should I do before starting and to start? Thanks in advance, Chris
Given that it has a good battery and everything is intact on the engine. First put some "Sea Foam" in the gas tank. Second, if it was me, I would change the engine oil and just as you were waiting for the last drop to drip pore another quart of oil in it to flush any sediment left (the official Buick manual says use diesel, i don't). Whats another buck and quarter campared to a burned up engine. Put a filter and oil in it and crank it over. You may have to "prime" it by poring a small amount of fuel down the carb throat. Don't due this while it is cranking, it may back fire. Make sure the key is off first. Safety first.
Chris: I would pull the spark plugs and spray in some WD-40, or pour a little 30 wt oil or some marvel mystery oil down into the holes. The next day, drain the oil and filter. After filling it with fresh oil, I would then pull the distributor and pre-lube the engine while turning the engine over by hand. If it turns nice and smooth, I would put fresh spark plugs in it and add some fuel to the carb float bowls. If the engine still has a points distributor, I would also put a fresh set in as well. Add one new battery and fire away! HTHs and Good luck! :TU: Dave
Chris, All of the above, and also check the brakes, after sitting for so many years you might get trouble in that department. Jack the car up and remove wheels en brakedrums for visual inspection of the brakes and rear seals. Make sure there's enough oil in the dif, and check the powersteering fluid. Cranking the engine over after an oilchange without the igniton connected (after the pre-lube) is also a good idea. PS: Found another pic of your car in Antwerpen