Reviving a long-sitting car...

[slipnfall]

Hi there, I'm *finally* getting to the point of having my 240 running. Problem is getting it drivable. To give you an idea on it's cond, I'v had it for close to a year, and the last inspection sticker on it is '99(VA, but bought in MD). Rust and corrosion is very minimal, and i'm surprised how well it's held up in the weather(been outside except for the last 6months).

When I'm to the point of test driving it, it will have a freshly-rebuilt KA, resurfaced flywheel, new radiator, clutch kit, and filters(+1hp ) Now I realize it's gonna need some obvious replacements, like brakes and tires, maybe even the rotors while I'm at it. I'm just looking for your opinions on the first/most important functional things to tend to(for ex. I can deal w/a worn out suspension for a little while)

Will draining/replacing the brake fluid be enough(original fluid when I bought), or should I go ahead and rebuild the brake calipers all around anyways? The MBC or clutch slave doesn't show any leaks that I can tell.

Also the power steering lines have been open to atmosphere(w/hood closed) for about a year now: do I have to worry about contaminates/condensation in the line, dried-out seals, or can I just fill up and be OK?

To anyone who's been in this position(w/a car that's been sitting), what did you replace without question?

Hope this isn't too much to ask in one post: these are just some thoughts/problems on the top of my mind.

Any insite appreciated.

One eager owner,-Jamie

::edit:: I should probably mention this is a '91 coupe, 5spd

[amolao]

Do a good tune up and refill should suffice....if I was you I will REPLACE all fluids, specially power steering just to be safe and that way you dont have to worry about doing it later....replacing the fluids is something you can do and not expensive. Is been sitting of a year??? HEHEHE!! My friend that baby is crying for some atenttion and ready to go on the road, check my sig and you'll know what Im talking about.....

[slipnfall]

Ok, well I'm relieved to hear about the PS fluid: I didn't know if it was like the AC, which I am told (Dad) should have parts replaced if it's open to atmo for any extended period of time. I havn't gotten a good look at the brake calipers: I'm afraid the sliders *may* have rusted in place. Remanned from the local auto store is roughly 50-60/ea(more for the rears). I gather from previous posts here that rebuilding them isn't worth the time and trouble(esp with the retainer rings/clamps that are supposidly really diff. to get out)

Yeah it's certainly been a long road since I'v bought it. I'v mainly been limited on money; the engine rebuild is already over $750 w/parts and labor. However that's(money on the engine) money well spend IMHO.

Thanks for the reply:I'll get a chance to check out your sig later(at work, shh...:-) )

-Jamie

[amolao]

Have you visually inspected your calipers??? Or are you making assumptions? Inspect them, and if they look good, and everything else looks good, take the car for an easy road test...that will answer any questions...If they are in bad condition, get remanufactured ones...dont waste your time trying to fix them... OR If you are mechanically inclined... take tires off, clean calipers and grease sliders, check for proper piston operation...you maybe want to check the pads and replace if required....

Yes my friend, money invested on a good engine rebuild is good investment...just take it easy for while to let the engine settle a bit....