Hello. I've got a nice(low-mileage) 86 GXL which has been sitting for over two years without being started. I know about the basic preps--change/flush the fluids, clean out the fuel tank, check all "soft" parts, but I'm worried about the seals. One person told me that I should pull the plugs and pour in some ATF(automatic trans. fluid) to help loosen the seals but I need some assurances. I WILL NOT turn this engine over until I know I won't tear up the seals!!! Please help! JP

 

Well, it is suggested to put a little bit of ATF in the engine and let it soak in overnight, perhaps put a little in each rotor, see if you can turn the pulley by hand with a socket wrench and pour a little more in trying to get all 3 rotor faces, then let it sit overnight, hell, two days if you really want to be sure. Then give it a try, you might want to use the search function and search for 'sitting ATF' or something along those lines, should bring up a ton of threads.

 

Do NOT use ATF. Use oil instead. Put about an ounce in each rotor housing, then spin the engine by hand a few rotations. Let it set for about an hour, then repeat. Prime the fuel system, then restart and keep the RPM low until it warms up. Then drive the car, taking it easy and keeping it below 3000 RPM. Over the next week, drive the car progressivly harder and at higher RPM.

ONLY use ATF on an engine that severly flooded or carbon locked.

 

Thanks guys. I'll fire it up this week. PS: this is my first visit/post on this board. I didn't even know you folks were here. Hope I don't become a speed nut(supercharged 13b?). Thanks again, JP.