The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop stored truck question...

I have a truck that has been sitting for 26 years, (44 2 ton, don't know yet if it is an original 216, 235 or a later model 235) What should I check before I try to start this thing (aside from which engine it has - I expect a 216). Granpa Bean (who parked it) knew what he was doing, but I don't want to damage anything when I try and revive the old guy (truck not grandpa bean ).

I will likely run the gas from an outboard motor can, and put a temporary air cleaner on it (the old one is missing, part of the reason for my concern) the climate where it was stored is HOT and dry. what precautions should I take when I try to start it.

Edit:
this is an engine only question, I have a question in the lounge about other steps to determining condition, but I thoght I would ask about the engine in particular here...

Fresh oil and water are musts. Pull the plugs and shoot some light oil, kero or diesel in the cylinders and let it sit for a day or two if you can. This will help if the rings are rusted to the cylinder walls.

I would recommend pulling the distributor and valve cover to spin the oil pump until oil is in the valve train. If you aren't comfortable with this, remove the valve cover and spin the engine with the plugs out and the fuel disconnected until oil flows.

After the oil is flowing and you have made sure the engine will turn over, you can install the plugs, hook up the fuel and say your prayers so she will start.

I just posted some suggestions in the lounge before I noticed your question here.