## How to Prep a Car Engine That Has Been Sitting
If you’re planning to resurrect a car that’s been sitting for a while, you’ll need to take some steps to prepare the engine before you can start it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Safety First
Before you do anything else, it’s important to make sure the car is safe to work on. Park it on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Check the Fluids
The first thing you need to do is check the fluids. This includes the oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. If any of the fluids are low, top them off. If the oil is black or sludgy, it’s a good idea to change it.
3. Inspect the Battery
The battery is responsible for starting the car, so it’s important to make sure it’s in good condition. If the battery is more than three years old, it’s a good idea to replace it.
4. Clean the Fuel System
If the car has been sitting for a long time, the fuel system may be clogged. You can clean the fuel system by running a fuel system cleaner through the engine.
5. Inspect the Spark Plugs
The spark plugs are responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders. If the spark plugs are worn or fouled, they can prevent the engine from starting. Inspect the spark plugs and replace them if necessary.
6. Inspect the Air Filter
The air filter is responsible for filtering the air that enters the engine. If the air filter is clogged, it can restrict airflow and prevent the engine from running properly. Inspect the air filter and replace it if necessary.
7. Inspect the Belts and Hoses
The belts and hoses in the engine are responsible for driving various components, such as the water pump, alternator, and power steering pump. If any of the belts or hoses are cracked or frayed, they can break and cause the engine to overheat or lose power. Inspect the belts and hoses and replace them if necessary.
8. Start the Engine
Once you’ve completed all of the above steps, you’re ready to start the engine. Turn the key to the “on” position and wait for the fuel pump to prime. Then, turn the key to the “start” position and crank the engine until it starts.
If the engine doesn’t start, don’t panic. There are a few things you can check. First, make sure that the battery is connected properly and that the spark plugs are getting fire. If the spark plugs are getting fire, then the problem may be with the fuel system.
Troubleshooting
If you’re having trouble starting the engine, here are a few things you can try:
* Check the battery connections. Make sure that the battery terminals are clean and tight.
* Check the spark plugs. Make sure that the spark plugs are getting fire.
* Check the fuel system. Make sure that the fuel pump is working and that the fuel lines are clear.
* If you’ve tried all of the above and the engine still won’t start, you may need to take it to a mechanic.
Conclusion
Preparing a car engine that has been sitting can be a daunting task, but it’s not impossible. By following the steps in this guide, you can increase your chances of success.
