getting started....

Danno · Post by **Danno** » Sat Jan 28, 2006 5:17 pm

OK, what do I need to start with to diagnose my '80's problems? Keep in mind that it has sat for 2-3 years without moving or running. I guess what I'm asking is run me through the basics so I can find the "real" problem....

I'm gonna start by:
1. getting as much of the old fuel out as possible
2. Draining and replacing the old oil and filter ( i might need help getting that!)
3. Changing plugs
4. Belt inspection/replacement
5. Coolant drain/refill
6. Plug wire check/replacement
7. Steering fluid (is it power steering even?) check
8. Brake Fluid check
9. Battery replacement (i'm sure it's bad by now)
10. tire check and air-up

11. Turn the key and see if it turns over at all? then repeat to get kinks worked out?
12. Report problems back here?

Am i missing anything between 10 and 11?

Brother in law was no help in finding out what the problem was when he took it to the mechanic. He mentioned something about a clogged cat, but i think that was fixed at some point. He mentioned overheating problems (he could have been thinking of the clogged cat overheating) so when I said "radiator" he said "yeah, maybe" and then he said something about needing a new carb. SOOOOOO, could be any one of or any combination of those things.....

So Cal Mark · Post by **So Cal Mark** » Sat Jan 28, 2006 9:30 pm

I'd remove the spark plugs and add some atf into each cylinder, then turn the motor by hand at least a few rotations first. Changing all fluids and draining all of the old gas is mandatory. If the engine does run, inspect or replace the timing belt before you get too crazy with it.

Danno · Post by **Danno** » Sat Jan 28, 2006 10:05 pm

So Cal Mark wrote:I'd remove the spark plugs and add some atf into each cylinder, then turn the motor by hand at least a few rotations first. Changing all fluids and draining all of the old gas is mandatory. If the engine does run, inspect or replace the timing belt before you get too crazy with it.

timing belt, gotchya. Didn't think of that. also, how about the transmission? or am I getting ahead of myself there? it's manual BTW.

bandit · Post by **bandit** » Sun Jan 29, 2006 3:38 am

The tranny oil can go for thousands of miles before changes but checking
it wouldn't hurt even a change if it has been years since it was done last
might not be a bad thing just remember to use none EP 90 it is hard to find Vickauto.com and IAP has it in stock .

Danno · Post by **Danno** » Sun Jan 29, 2006 4:40 pm

i edited the above to say that I have a 1980 and not a 1981 spider.

fiater · Post by **fiater** » Thu Feb 02, 2006 7:07 pm

my special sat for 7or 8 yrs. before I got it. I had a real problem with rust and a tar like substance in the gas tank. Both resulted in plugged fuel lines. I also had trouble with sludge in the oil pan, that plugged the oil strainer. good luck

Danno · Post by **Danno** » Fri Feb 03, 2006 9:43 am

fiater wrote:my special sat for 7or 8 yrs. before I got it. I had a real problem with rust and a tar like substance in the gas tank. Both resulted in plugged fuel lines. I also had trouble with sludge in the oil pan, that plugged the oil strainer. good luck

well, i'll do my best to siphon out the old fuel. I hope that mine isn't as bad as yours was!

mdrburchette · Post by **mdrburchette** » Fri Feb 03, 2006 2:04 pm

Check the rubber donut at the driveshaft. I could pose a problem if it comes apart.