The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Long time sitting 235 startup

Success. My brother-in-law and I attempted to fire up the old 235 six in the newly acquired '56 3100 truck. But, long before today we have been squirting Marvel Mystery Oil in the cylinders and then gently hand turning the engine using the fan belt.  I bumped the starter a couple times to make sure there was no binding, then poured a small amount of gas down the carb. It sure was trying to start up and would have if I had a continuous flow of fuel to the carb. Then two days later we fed enough fuel to the carb that after cranking the engine coughed and started running. Sounded really good. We had to shut it down, though, because I had disconnected the oil cannister to clean it up. Wow, talking about oiling down the engine and surrounding area. But, it was worth it to know the engine runs after 30 plus years of being parked. Next will be to check out the trans.

Well that's good to hear and encouraging. Too bad Bill Jones Hamburgers isn't still over on Beauregard St. You could both go down there and celebrate. Keep us filled in on how the rest of it goes.

PLEASE don't use the onboard gas tank for a wake-up run after the vehicle has been sitting for a long time. Varnish and other gummy stuff from stale gas (even after draining and refilling the tank) will deposit itself on the valve stems, and at the next startup you'll end up with stuck valves, bent pushrods, and possibly some broken rocker arms. Always use a remote tank like for an outboard motor, and either remove and steam clean the onboard tank, or replace it. I also like to soak the valve stems and guides with spray carburetor cleaner and lever the valves open and closed repeatedly before the first startup.
Jerry