QuestionMr. Benjamin, I hope you can answer my question, I have a 1970 Cadillac that been stored in my garage for 1 year and I would like too start driving her around but, I am affraid that I will damage the engine by starting it, what percaution should I take? like should I change the oil frist or what other means should the oil lubing the engine be done frist.
Thank You for Your Time
Bill Schopp
email address billschopp@hotmail.com
AnswerIf it has only sat for a year, I wouldn't worry much about it. The oil will have stayed on the cylinder walls pretty well, and other than perhaps some problems starting it because of stale gas, I doubt you'll have any problem at all putting it back on the road.
If it had been 3 to 5 years, I'd have advised removing the spark plugs and then putting a teaspoon or so of engine oil into each plug hole, allowing it it to sit overnight that way, and then cranking the engine on the starter for 30 seconds or so, before re-installing the spark plugs. But in your case, I don't think it is necessary.
As soon as you begin driving it, fill the tank with as much fresh gas as it will take, and keep topping up the tank frequently until the car is back to driving normally.
If you have any problem getting it to start, contact me with a follow up question, and I'll help you troubleshoot it.
These are great cars to drive, as you probably know. I had both a 69 and a 70 Coupe deVille - they were both an absolute delight on the road!
Good luck with it.
Dick
