Hi,

I am in the process of buying a 1958 VW Bug, restored. It has been standing in a garage untouched since 2004 and the engine hasn't been started since. The seller claims that the 6V battery is broke and the ignition coil (or something related to that) not working.

Now I need to ask you guys what to watch out for when starting the engine of a car that has been left standing for this long. Is there anything to watch out for to minimize the possibility of ruining something?

I would be really glad to get some advice on this so that I don't do any damages to this fine vehicle.

 

1. check oil level
2. make sure generator [fan] belt is OK
3. Charge battery
3. drain gas tank disconnect fuel line at carb, point into a container and crank engine. getting gas? good, now crank until fuel stops, reconnect fuel line, add fresh gas to tank and give her a try. If she won't crank, you need to check for spark and a gummed up carb. good luck!