And one other fluid that would need attention after a year in storage is the gas. It would be good if not a lot was left in there before storage, and some type of stabilizer was used, especially if it was an ethonol blend. And maybe where you live in CA it is not in a humid environment where humid air would be venting in during the day and that humidity condensing on the cool walls of the tank at night. But regardless, put some fresh gas in the tank. Of course the amount may be dependent upon your driving plans, but as much as reasonably possible to dilute the old gas.
What was in your tank during that time is also in your carburetor. To make sure your carb will be getting gas to the engine, you may want to take the air cleaner off, open the choke so you can see the throttle plates and pull on the linkage a few times to make sure the interntal pump is squirting fuel in. This way, you will also know that you have gas present when trying to start it. I don't believe there would have been enough evaporation to empty the bowls and keep this from occurring, but if everything else looks OK pre-start, pouring a few dribbles of fresh gas into the carb wouldn't be a bad idea to get the engine going enough to get the carb refilled by the fuel pump.
As mentioned above, pulling the coil wire to prime with
oil during starter rotation is better than just firing it up cold, as the engine will be turning slower with the starter. Granted, the
oil pump is turning slower as well, but the conditions will be much gentler for an engine that has set for a year.
Oil can only travel so fast through an engine, and the slower starter rotation will accommodate this. And of course, watch the oil pressure gauge immediately after start up. If you don't see oil pressure coming up, then shut it down and determine why not.
Checking brake and clutch fluid levels should be added to the list. Take the caps off to see if there is any evidence of moisture in there as well. And while you are under the hood, just check out the wiring or look for any sign of rodents (nest building, droppings) that may have wanted to call your car home for the year. With mild winters there, this may not have been a problem for you.
If you would like to consult with a shop, I would like to think that if you just call them up and describe your situation, a reputable shop would be glad to give their suggestions on what to check without you having to take the car in or have them make a house call, especially if they know they may get future business from you for more involved maintenance....or a free ride out of the deal for their time on the phone.
I realize all of this information isn't what you asked for, but I think we are all just trying to save you a few dollars, and help you see that you can do anything they can do in this situation.
Bringing out Cobra from long term storage
Linear Mode
