Car not started for two years: Advice, In "cold storage" in Michigan Options

[orthobiz]

I'm getting my mint 74 1.8 liter soon, and as some of you may know, I looked hard this winter before I found my perfect ride. Along the way I found out about a car in Grand Rapids, Michigan, owned by a fellow who spends the winter in Florida. He's now back in Michigan and is getting ready to sell his car. It's a yellow 74 or 75 (he's not really sure) and it may or may not have some rust ("a little around the turn signals"), etc.

So, now I'm thinking "daily driver" because I've gotten this 914 bug really, really bad this year. What could be bad about having TWO cars???

The problem is he has not started it for two years. Probably has untreated gas in the tank, who knows how much gas. And it was stored in a covered pole barn that is unheated (which means zero degrees in Michigan winter).

Can you just charge the battery and try to start it up? Does the tank need to be drained and the lines changed or flushed or what??? Any idea of how long sitting is "too long?"

Thanks for the advice!

Paul

[orthobiz]

But what's the best way to get rid of old, old gas? Other than dipping torches in it and storming Frankenstein's castle?

Thanks,

Paul

[Pat Garvey]

But what's the best way to get rid of old, old gas? Other than dipping torches in it and storming Frankenstein's castle?

Thanks,

Paul

Hey Paul,

If you storm the castle, be sure to notice the gorgeous knockers on the door (anyone remeber this?).

Seriously, I've got about 4 gallons of 5 year old gas I'd like to get rid of too. Old oil isn't a problem because a local mechanic shops uses it to heat his shop in the winter & will take all I can give him. But gas seems to be different - wants no part of it. Admittedly, I haven't tried very hard to get rid of it & if I had a lawnmower I'd use it there.
Pat