How to Start a Carbureted Car That Has Been Sitting
Starting a carbureted car that has been sitting requires a series of steps to ensure the engine runs smoothly. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Preparation Steps
1. Clean and Drain Old Fluids
Start by removing the fuel reservoir from the carburetor and cleaning it. Empty the old fuel from the fuel tank and the fuel line. Drain the engine oil and refill with new oil, making sure to fit a new filter.
2. Battery and Charging
Ensure a fully charged battery is fitted. Crank the engine until the oil light goes out, indicating that there is oil pressure. Reconnect the fuel feed to the carburetor with a new filter, and add new fuel to the tank. At least one gallon is recommended, but save a few drops in a small receptacle for the next step.
Engine Starts and Additional Checks
3. Fuel and Engine Primer
Pour a small amount of fuel into the carburetor's choke tube and crank the engine. If the engine starts, proceed with warming it up by keeping the revs slightly above 1000 rpm until it starts to warm up. If it does not start, you may need to repeat the pour process a few times.
4. Alternative Methods for Starting
Alternative methods can be used such as spraying a can of starter fluid down the carburetor. This often causes the car to start quickly. You can also use a spray of cleaner directly to the carburetor to help it start.
Engin Health Check
5. Lubrication and Compression Check
Drain the oil and replace it with fresh oil, checking for water condensation. Charge or replace the battery. Check the radiator for any issues. If the engine does not rotate smoothly, it might be locked up. Prime the oil pump using an oil pump primer tool or remove the spark plugs and spin the engine to ensure there is oil in the oil pump.
6. Cylinder Lube
Put a small amount of oil in the cylinders to lubricate the engine, and crank the engine. Examine the engine rotation for any signs of uneven compression. Use a timing light or a code tester to check for spark and engine health. Refer to the manufacturer’s guide to understand specific codes and meanings.
Professional Tools and Resources
7. Diagnostic Tools
Invest in a code tester like the Actron CP9690 available on eBay. This tool can help diagnose KOEO codes related to the fuel pump, relay, and other sensors. A live test can also show the status of the coolant sensor, which should read close to the outside temperature.
Starting a carbureted car that has been sitting requires patience and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can ensure that your car is running smoothly and efficiently.