so my engine has been out of my car for a little over 3 years. What all should i do to make sure nothing is messed up? or anything i can do to it now? I'm planning on getting it back in and started this winter

 

Of course, recharge battery and I suggest changing all fluids. Your gas may be bad also. Pull your EGI and crank engine a few times to get all the new fluids running. Pop that bad boy back in and you should be good.
Thats if you've got a strong motor.
My car sat for about 1 yr. at body shop due to no insurance from accident. Spoke with the guy who built my engine and takes car of my ride (Dave at KDR) and he told me this would be the best course to take.
Now 3 yrs is quite some time. You may want to check out a few more things like cracked hoses etc.
Good luck

 

all fluids are gone except the oil. there was only 10k or less on the motor when i got it. I was going to replace all of the hoses anyways.

 

Since the engine has about 10k on it give or take i would recommend this. Before you drop it in and try to start it, i would recommend turning it by hand first to ensure you dont break a seal due to the speed and torque of the starter. Maybe even lube it a little bit to help, dont soak it.

Best of luck on it, i look forward to reading up on how it worked out.

 

squirt some MMO or atf in there and crank over by hand and then let it soak that up. check all hoses, i'd change gas, new plugs, an give her a try. as soon as it's running (somewhate) reliably, i'd also flush all fluids in the car.