[Poncho64]

I just bought a 66 tempest that has been stored in doors since 1979, it hasnt been started or anything, engine will turn over with the key but wont start. I am fixing to go through the usual plugs wires rotor that sorta thing and I need to know, What all should I do to get this thing running, it is in great shape and everything looks good its just been sitting a long time.

[Poncho64]

I just bought a 66 tempest that has been stored in doors since 1979, it hasnt been started or anything, engine will turn over with the key but wont start. I am fixing to go through the usual plugs wires rotor that sorta thing and I need to know, What all should I do to get this thing running, it is in great shape and everything looks good its just been sitting a long time.

[Will]

You're on the right track.

Change *all* fluids and filters, replace the ignition components, lube the suspension, and it should be good to go.

Be wary of the tires. They may be cracked or stiff & dried out and might have flat spots in them from sitting for so long.

Sounds like a nice find!
-Will

[6567GTO]

Ken K recently told me about Autozone lending out tools. I would get an "oil pump primer" tool and prime the oil. I picked one up. All you have to do is leave a refundable deposit of $25. Make sure you set the drill in reverse. Good Luck.

[danfandango71]

I thought I read you could use the end of an old distributor as a priming tool...Maybe my memory is going? If so, might save you a couple bucks.

[6567GTO]

You can use an old distributor, I just didn't want to ruin any of mine. By the way the tool from Autozone doesn't quite fit the distributor hole. The aluminum guide bushing that locates in the hole is undersized allowing the tool to tip to the side. If you're not careful you could possibly do damage to the distributor driveshaft. But it did work...

[Mr-Bratt]

Also check any rubber fuel lines that could leak and give you a big headache when she does start up, As I did not on my 67 lemans and ended up with a small fire.Also all the other rubber hoses. Good luck, Mr-B

[All4Fun]

What advice the others have given you is sound. If that vehicle has been stored that long with fuel in it then there are other items that need to be adressed. Fuel stored that long will turn to syrup!
1. Disconnect the fuel line(s) from the fuel pump and spray carburetor cleaner into the lines. (Make sure to wear eye protection) If you have access to an air compressor blow about 10psi into the lines to the tank with the fuel cap off to be sure they are free and clean.
2. Drain all fuel from the tank and visually inspect it for rust and/or varnish. If it is clean reinstall it and put fresh fuel in with a bottle of fuel system cleaner. BG 44k works great.
3. Get a carburator kit with new float and new filter and rebuild the carb. I have seen accelerator pumps turn to mush with only 2 year old fuel. Not to mention the amount of varnish on the inside.
4. Perform what the other guys have said and above all else HAVE SOME FUN!!
John

[Ken K]

Yep that Auto Zone oil pump primer was wobbly even on a small block Chevy but like you said it worked, I won't complain because it was free to use and how often do you need one.