Quote:
This is what I would do if starting an engine of unkown condition (but that's just ME, others will have their own views and ideas):
Oil:
I would dump out any oil in it, and replace with 4.5 litres of new cheap oil, a can of engine flush and put in around 10cc of diesel or light penetrating oil into each cylinder via the spark-plug hole. Also take off the cam cover and pour oil over the cam and followers. Disconnect the coil so you have no stray sparks. Then turn the engine over with the spark plugs out for 2mins, then rest for 3mins and then repeating maybe 5 times. ( the resting is to allow the starter motor too cool off a bit in between turning). Then I would dump that oil, replace the filter and add new oil to the correct level.
Cooling:
Dump any coolant, flush the rad and engine with a hose pipe. Refill correctly via the thermostat housing with correct coolant.
Fuel:
Drain any fuel and dispose of it responsibly.
Replace all the fuel lines, metal and rubber from the tank to the carbs.
Fit an inline fuel filter prior to the entry of the fuel pump.
Wash out the carb float chambers and make sure the floats are not sticking. Fill the float chambers with fresh fuel.
Then I would try and start the engine.
Then go hunting for fuel, oil and coolant leaks. Check the fan belt condition and tension. Replace all the ignition system consumables - plugs, points, distrib cap, plug leads, rotor arm where necessary just to get it running.
Isn't the first thing you should do with an unknown engine is crank it over by hand? To make sure that the the timing is OK and you're not going to smash any valves.