I've had an AE since '95 that has about 100k miles on it. It got parked in my buddies garage in '99 or '00. I don't get to start it often but when i do she smokes for a few min. I am thinking that the engine needs to be rebuilt. I heard it's not good to let the motors sit and dont' want to damage it by running it. What would you suggest? Also, Im going to begin the restoration process on it. She doesn't need much Im mainly concerned about the motor. Only other thing is new leather seat covers. Who makes the best (most like OEM's)? Thanks guys!!

 

Let a rotary sit for awhile and oil gets by the side seals into the combustion chamber, so it'll smoke like that if you let it sit. On cold mornings Lucy smokes a bit when started, and she's essentially a DD.

If you have smoke all the time while running the engine, then the side seals are going. Smoke @ high RPM/load indicates an oil control ring failure. If you have neither, just make sure the oil/filter get changed as they should and warm her up more often.

 

thanks for the great info! someone told me if it is going to sit for a while, and this was a while ago so i am not sure how much i remember, to pull the plugs and put some oil in the motor then turn it backwards?? that keeps the wipers(?) moist...

 

Having 100k on it means that a rebuild is probably a good idea. The smoke on start up after sitting is fairly normal.

I would suggest checking out some of your local upholstery shops for getting new seat covers made. Unless you have experience with bull rings and pliers and are experienced with upholstery work. Even the best seat covers will look like crap if they are not upholstered/installed correctly.

lol

wipers = apex seals?
moist = lubricated

 

My dad worked for an upholstery shop for years he even made the seat covers (vinyl in our boat), cutting, sewing and installing. I think the seats would be a project he is definitely capable of just don't want to get a poor quality product. Any suggestions on reputable companys to research would be appreciated!! thanks!

 

I've not heard of anyone really making new seat covers... Could be wrong though.

 

No...that doesn't really make much sense. Like I said, do all the stuff; fluid changes, and take it out for a jaunt. If it smokes all the time, rebuild the engine. If it smokes @ high rpm...then just don't go to high RPM and wait until it smokes all the time to rebuild.

 

I wanted to ask you guys because I spoke to another guy today who said when the motors sit for an extended period of time the oil drains to the pan and allows moisture to build in motor. This can cause rust and although the engine will start and run damage can be done. Im asking because I am not sure how true any of this. thanks!!