rgare

I have a 74 914 that I’m going to use as a daily driver, that has been sitting in my garage for 5+ years. The car was running when I parked it but had a idling (read dying) problem that I could never fix.

What issues I’m I probably looking at after letting it sit that long?
The battery is dead and wont take a charge, so I’ll buy a new one
The gas tank has fuel in it but there is a white powdery substance on the filler cap, should I drain the tank? Is there any thing else I should before trying to start it up? Any advise is appreciated.

Thanks
RG

racer

Drain the fuel.. examine the bottom of the tank for rust. Repair if needed.

Go over ALL fuel lines and replace as many as you can.. these hoses can dry out, crack and cause a fire.

You don't mention if 1.8, 2.0, FI or carbed...

May need a new battery (get a sealed one like an Optima Red Top if you can)

You will also want to flush the brake system. Check clutch cable for being dried out/cracked. Again, really ANYthing that is rubber should be reviewed before using.

Fresh spark plugs, maybe a new air filter, drain out the oil and look for issues there, then replace with fresh oil.

There is a chance that the pistons have "stuck" themselves to the cylinders. Be wary of rust/corrosion in the engine, tearing any piston rings etc.

I'm sure others will chime in.

Good to hear another one is being resurected!

Slantnose!

Hey...what's the best way to drain the gas tank, anyway?

Jay Gratton

I like what racer said. When it starts however let it get up to temp and then drive it a little and change it again to get all the crap out of the engine. Are you going to drive this everyday? 914's don't make the best daily drivers.

skl

When I started "restoring" a 914 2.0 that had been sitting for nearly 12 years (!) the fuel in the lines had completely turned to semi-solid jello so you'd better hope you can actually drain the tank! After only 5 years hopefully you can- and obviously DON'T trust the brakes at all without first completely flushing and bleeding- the master cylinder may be junk already. Have fun...

Irishdriver

From my experience,

Step one...

Beat the hell out of the siezed handbrake to free up the back wheel so the car can be moveed..

step two

the rest of the list above.