3800 hasn't run in two years - Am I OK? (Page 1/1)
bmyers MAR 04, 11:10 AM
Two years ago I acquired an '86 Fiero and an '02 Regal GS 3800SC. I then had a medical situation and am only now getting around to the project. The Buick hasn't run in 2 years. Can I assume the motor is still good? Anything I should know or do before I fire it up? TIA

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Brian from Long Island, NY
'86 3800SC Auto

[This message has been edited by bmyers (edited 03-04-2022).]

Dennis LaGrua MAR 04, 11:17 AM
I would say the engine is most likely good but you should drain the fuel rail, clean the injectors and change the oil. A new set of spark plugs might also help.

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" THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite.
"THE COLUSSUS"
87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H
" ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "

olejoedad MAR 04, 11:20 AM
You might want to pull the plugs and mist a little lubricant in the cylinders, change the oil, check coolant condition and check the inlet air system for critter debris.

Visually examine the wiring for critter damage while you're at it.

I'm sure others will chime in with suggestions as well.

Oil sticks around on the lubricating surfaces for a long time, I'm thinking that you should be ok.
slicknick MAR 17, 08:25 AM
I haven't touched my project car in like 10 years. I fire it up ever year or three just to see if it runs. No prep, no nothing. Fires up with barely a crank every time.
Stingray92 MAR 17, 07:08 PM
I brought a new to me 2002 3800 n/a back to life last year, had sat outdoors, not driven for at least 2 years. Went through the fluids, flushed the oil system for a while, put some seafoam in the cylinders and let soak for a week before spinning with the starter. 14K miles later and not a problem.
InTheLead MAR 19, 08:05 AM
Be a good idea to spray some engine fogging oil in each cylinder, maybe give it a day to sit. Just pull the plugs and spray it in each plug hole. Can leave the plug wires off the coil/or plugs themselves and turn the engine over a few times to make sure everything is freely moving before your first start. Or even a pry bar on the crank just to be sure it moves at all.

Marvels Mystery Oil in each cylinder works great as well or a 1 to 1 ratio of acetone and auto trans fluid (works really well if there's rust).

Flipped many many cars in my younger days installed a lot of old engines from junk yards, shelves, old crate engines and this method has always treated me well.