Jaguar Repair: Starting Series III, vanden plas, check belts

Question
We have a 1985 Series III Vanden Plas that has been parked in the garage and has not been started or driven for the past few years.  It was in good running order before being parked.  We would like to get it running again.  Are there certain things that need to be done before trying to start the car again, or can we simply charge the battery and turn the ignition?  After getting the car started, are there any other things that should be checked out before driving the car on the road?  

Thanks

Answer
Hi Brendan,
If it has not run in several years there are several things that need to be done. You should change oil and filter and change the brake fluid (DOT 4), new battery. (deep charge battery) then remove the spark plugs and put a little engine oil in each cylinder and with the wires off of the positive side of the coil spin the engine until you see oil pressure on the gauge (25 to 35 PSI) Drain both gas tanks and put fresh gas in both (high test gas) then remove the air filter and with the key on reach in the front of the airflow meter and open the flap and hold it open for at least 30 seconds then switch the tanks on the instrument panel and do it again for another 30 seconds. Also change the antifreeze and add some anti electrolysis additive to the antifreeze. check belts and hoses for dry rot.

Then you can put the wires back on the coil and the spark plugs back in and the air filter back on. Then try to start it watching for oil pressure on the gauge and checking for leaks from the oil filter. Run the engine until the temperature comes up and stabilizes to confirm that the thermostat is not failed or stuck. A short drive and confirm that the brakes work normally.
Howard