Reviving Relics
After finally scoring that elusive barn find, you will want to bring it back to life, so here’s some basic info to help you reverse the ravages of time, the elements, small animals, and neglect.
Delving into the car’s past will aid in formulating its resuscitation plan. Was it stored due to a mechanical failure? Knowing what broke can serve as a starting point for repairs. How many years had it sat? The higher the number, the more wrenching it will require. Was it prepped for storage? If so, maybe it will need a bit less work.
We’re discussing OHV V-8s, so some procedures may differ with other types of engines. Get a factory service manual or at least an aftermarket repair manual for your model, as it will provide tuning specs and a wealth of other info.
Clean off the engine, its bay, and exhaust system. Mice frequently dwell in air cleaners, empty coolant overflow tanks, and other confined areas, so check them.
