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From: Murrells Inlet, SC (formally New Windsor, NY)
Low mile 86 vert - No start
I’m in the process of purchasing a 7k mile 86 convertible that has been a museum piece the majority of it’s life. The car has been stored on a showroom floor the last 3 years and has not been started in that time. A new battery has been installed and it just cranks, no start. Fuel gauge reads full and you can slightly smell fuel from the pipes, as well a an engine stutter from time to time as it attempts to run. They have a tech on site who believes it may be the VATS, but I am unsure of that because the motor will turn when the key is turned. I’m no expert on VATS though. Only 1 ignition key with the cars and it appears like new. I’m thinking fuel pump or empty gas tank with a bad gauge. According to the owner, the car ran beautifully 3 years ago when it was parked and displayed. I’m looking for some suggestions on where to start troubleshooting.
Semi. Congrats!
That is one pristine vert.
Ok your details rule out VATS.
Due to the fact the starter turned over. Engine tried to fire.
You can do a simplistic test. Press in the valve stem on the fuel rail port. Should spray fuel.
If you have a fuel shower.
Next get a fuel pressure gauge.
Check for pressure at key- on. No start.
The needle should snap above 45 and hold a constant 43 - 45lbs.
Keep us posted.
From: Murrells Inlet, SC (formally New Windsor, NY)
Thanks for the quick reply and advice. Glad it not VATS. The car is 3 hours away from me so I’m relying on the the museum employees to check the things I suggest. I will have them check the fuel pressure like you suggested. I’ll report back when I hear from them.
Does it have 3 year old gas in it? It could be a lot of things, but old gas and plugged injectors would be my starting point after 3 years (or more if it's really been longer).
You could try a shot of ether or brake clean in the throttle body to see if she fires. There is a risk of hydrolocking the engine if there's an injector stuck open.
You really need to take a thoughtful approach on something that's been sitting that long. Just tossing in a battery and trying to start it often ends badly.
From: Murrells Inlet, SC (formally New Windsor, NY)
So I wound up purchasing the 86 convertible "as is" and am having it shipped in an enclosed trailer next week. I didn't want anyone tinkering with it so I will start diagnosing when it gets here. From what I saw with it last week I'm pretty confident it's just a fuel pump. It's just a show car for me and probably a good NCRS candidate so I am going to enjoy playing around with it. I'll follow up with some updates and ask for advice if I run in to any issues.
Low mile 86 vert - No start
