After 50 Years, Going To Start The Car

johnr9q@yahoo.com

johnr9q@yahoo.com

Senior Member
I have read all the info on what to do before I start it. Someone also suggested I remove the distributor and pour oil down the hole. What do you think?
 
Yes that will flood the valve chamber.

Actually just hit the starter with the ignition switch off for 30 seconds to pump oil first before lighting up.
 
That will lube the main bearings which are likely dry after 50 years, and it will take a few minutes for oil to get to them from the pump.
 
If your 'A' hasn't been started in that long, also assuming you have used the crank to see if the motor isn't locked up, yes, pull the Dizzy and put some oil down the shaft. Best of luck to you!
 
I assume you have changed the oil?

If so, I would now remove plugs and distributor. Pour some oil in each cylinder and more down the distributor opening.

Let sit for a day or so.

Now without installing the distributor, turn the engine over.

Put everything back together. Start the engine.

Good luck ��
 
What’s that tube on the right side of the engine do ? Returns unneeded oil back down to the oil pan after oil fills the valve chamber ! Loosen the bottom connection and turn the engine over with the spark plugs out until you make an oil mess ! You’ll now know the oil pump pumps, and oil should flow down to the bearings .
 
Oils 50 Y.O. where mainly non-detergent oils which would let the gunk sink to the bottom when it sat. So even if you change the oil the gunk is still there and will get into the bearings and cam and crank etc. Dropping the pan you can clean it out along with the windage tray and the pump. You can also check the bearings while it is down. It takes an extra day or so but if it saves the engine....

Mike
 
Drop the pan, there will be sludge and corrosion without a doubt. Pull out the dipper tray, clean bottom of pan. Disassemble and clean oil pump. Screen will most likely full of crap. If this car has a good usable motor and you don't take the time to drop the pan you have a very good chance of ruining it. Those are the cold hard facts. You are a newbie and clearly have no idea. You come to the forums to ask questions. You get answers pay attention. Have you rebuilt the carburetor, distributor, checked out the generator? 60 years is a long time.
 
johnr9q@yahoo.com said:
When I pull the pan, How do I check the bearings?
Click to expand...

You’re going to be advised to do many things. If you’re just trying to see if the engine runs?

Than just do what is necessary for that. Once you get it running. You can properly make decisions on going forward.

Removing the pan is not a bad idea. But not necessary if you’re just trying to see what’s going on with the engine.

I have a car that sat for 25 years. Started on first try. Than I removed pan, cleaned carburetor, timed. 42 years later, engine still running strong.

Don’t fix it if it’s not broken.
 
You will need new tires,a belt. and hoses at a the least. A tune up would help , new points ,condenser and spark plugs.Six years ago I tried to start a car with 1972 tags on it today I have spent way to much on it but I have a new car. I will be the 4th owner.My grandfather bought it in 1950 for $100 from the 1st owner, my dad was the 3rd owner who passed on this past Monday at 90 giving me the car.My dad told me it was the 1st car he drove,me too and I was 14 then,times were different then . Dad never knew this .
 
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