Not been started for 30 years. What to check and change?

[johan]

Hi,

I am new to this forum and I have a an early SL230 (man). The car was bought new by my wifes father in early sixties and used until early eightes (we think 1983). It was then put in a garage (dry environment but no heat) where it has stood until now. I have not yet done extensive research on it but it seems to be in quite good condition it was working in 1983, no or very little surface rust.

Now to my question! What should be checked and what should be changed before starting it? I tried to search the forum but didn't find anything. Is there anything that is critical not to miss checking before starting? Has anyone written a guide? Brake system, Engine Oil (guess several time the first time with some running in between), Transmission Oil, Battery, Tires what more?

I will not do all the job myself but I want to get an idea of what is to be done and then try to find some experienced mechanic on these cars in Sweden.

Thank You,
Johan

[badali]

Check this posting by another member that is bringing his back to life.

http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=13815.0

[Raymond]

You might start by pulling the spark plugs and squirting some WD-40 or other lubricant inside, then putting the car in gear and rocking it forward and back while someone watches the crank pulley.  Assuming it moves, the engine is not seized.  Replace oil and filter.  You will certainly want to drain the gas tank and properly dispose of the 27 year old gas.  Check the "flower pot" in the gas tank and visually inspect the inside of the tank.  If all that goes well, put a couple of gallons in the tank and disconnect the output of the fuel pump.  Connect a battery and turn on the ignition to see if the fuel pump is running about 2 liters in :30.  You can also see if there is loose crud in the pump and lines this way.  Change the fuel filter.  I would eyeball the inside of the distributor cap just to look for surprises.  Same with the air cleaner and intake.  No critter nests? Look in the tail pipe for those too.   I would drain the radiator and put in just plain distilled water for now.  If you have gotten this far without any discrepancies, you are a very lucky person.  Put in new spark plugs. With that, I'd give starting a try.

Welcome and good luck!  We hope to hear a great success story soon.

[johan]

Thank you for your answers. Will try to get it going during this spring/summer! I'll keep you updated.

[jmbour]

Hello,

After starting the engine, you will have to check the hydraulics : the brakes (are they stuck or nor ?). You'd better replace the calipers or rebuild them. same for the clutch : My 280 CE and 280 SL have had brake and clutch problem, due to storage (but not for 30 years).
Of course, replace also the tyres.

Good luck, and when your car is ready, drive it !

J.M.  Bour

[xcashewx]

BRAKE HOSES!!
&
replace all other rubber hoses, even if they look okay

and what most people forget, change the FIP oil supply. most likely has never been changed

[harleydan]

What is the "FIP" oil supply?   

Thanks,
Danny
1970 280SL silver Euro 4-speed

[thelews]

What is the "FIP" oil supply?  

Thanks,
Danny
1970 280SL silver Euro 4-speed

Fuel injection pump, acronyms are big around here, AFAIK.

[glenn]

Make sure the oil filter 'garden hose' seal is on the stub at the top of the filter.