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car sitting for 2 years


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don2026
New User

May 1, 2009, 7:55 AM

Post #1 of 5 (2825 views)
car sitting for 2 years Sign In

I have the opportunity to obtain a 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport with 51k miles. The car belonged to an elderly man who passed away about 2 years ago, and has not been driven or started since. The daughter said that it ran great when parked and her father always maintained it properly. I know it needs a new battery and I'm sure the gas needs to be drained and new fuel put in. Any advise on how or what to do to get it up and running??


flgmtech1
User

May 1, 2009, 12:00 PM

Post #2 of 5 (2819 views)
Re: car sitting for 2 years Sign In

check the tires they are notorious for dry rotting when sitting especially for that long. Also inspect all of the fluids, changing the fluids would be a great idea, be aware all of your gaskets are going to be suspect for issues with leaks as most seals and gaskets can dry out and become brittle in the case of cork, or swell and harden, or dry rot depending on the rubber or neoprene seals location and application. Don't be surprised if you find leaks establish after driving for a few weeks.
Definately change the wiper blades for the same reason as already listed rubber dry rot, ensure the moving parts on the braking system such as caliper slides are lubed and free moving, ensure to lube all zirc fittings on the steeirng and check all your lights for proper operation, sure the bulbs may not decay, but terminal tension where the bulbs contact the connector socket can be affected by ambient temperature change and termial tension can cause issues.
I am sure I am leaving something out, but that is a good starting point. Good luck!Smile


Guest
Anonymous Poster
thebennett4@embarqmail.com

May 1, 2009, 12:06 PM

Post #3 of 5 (2817 views)
Re: car sitting for 2 years Sign In

Thanks for your advice, any advise on best way to drain old gas and how to dispose of it??


flgmtech1
User

May 1, 2009, 1:35 PM

Post #4 of 5 (2802 views)
Re: car sitting for 2 years Sign In

as it is gas probably turning to what smells like kerosene, I would either offer it up for free on craigs list for someone who can use it in a lawnmower by mixing it with newer gas in a 50 50 mix or even with a mix of oil for a 2 cycle engine, OR you will need to contact a shop that can have it picked up by a state or EPA certified reclimation service usually a company that also picks up used oil, and filters and coolant. Try calling some of your reapir facilities as to who they use or what fee they would charge you to handle it for you.


Loren Champlain Sr
Veteran / Moderator
Loren Champlain Sr profile image

May 1, 2009, 4:38 PM

Post #5 of 5 (2799 views)
Re: car sitting for 2 years Sign In

To add; Make certain that it will pass emissions before you buy it, but if it doesn't start and run, that's a problem.
The fuel can be siphoned and disposed of as flgmtech suggested. Be sure to replace the fuel filter at the same time.
Loren
SW Washington






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