What to check - engine not started for 10 years !!

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simonhorton
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Joined: Thu Oct 12, 2006 6:40 pm

What to check - engine not started for 10 years !!

#1 Post by simonhorton »

I'm just about to get my Sprint started
What should I check after it starts

Many thanks
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Galileo
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Location: Shetland / here & there

Re: What to check - engine not started for 10 years !!

#2 Post by Galileo »

That it stops? ;)
Current fleet: '75 Sprint, '73 1850, Daihatsu Fourtrak, Honda CG125, Yamaha Fazer 600, Shetland 570 (yes it's a boat!)

Past fleet: Triumph 2000, Lancia Beta Coupe, BL Mini Clubman, Austin Metro, Vauxhall Cavalier MK1 & MK2, Renault 18 D, Rover 216 GSI, Honda Accord (most expensive car purchase, hated, made out of magnetic metal as only car I've ever been crashed into...4 times), BMW 318, Golf GTi MK3 16v x 3
oldengineer

Re: What to check - engine not started for 10 years !!

#3 Post by oldengineer »

Simon, Have just been through a similar experience except I have given my engine a total rebuild - everything new. Before I started it I checked I had oil pressure by cranking it without the plugs in. Dependent on how much work you have done I would say once its going be gentle with it - warm it up thoroughly, listen for ominous knocking noises etc, as it is possible some sludge may have settled and blocked an oilway leading as in my case to a knocking big end on one piston ---- which led to the rebuild!
Good luck
Chris
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tony g
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Location: Nr Kenilworth

Re: What to check - engine not started for 10 years !!

#4 Post by tony g »

Get ready to push the choke in quick if it revs up rapidly. The fast idle part of the linkage can often be too high (its adjustable) , also keep a quick eye on water or oil leaks and especially petrol leaks. Dont panic about smoke appearing as handling the bits and pieces will undoubtably cause some oily residue to "burn" off.
If successful, after a nice warm up (check clutch op too) switch off , leave til day after to check fluid levels and RETORQUE Head. (slacken each nut half turn and then back to torque, then each bolt)
When youre happy check the wheel nuts are tight as its often forgotten :)

Good luck

Tony
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