VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND NEWER 1946-1948 1947 Fleetline

Just yesterday, I bought a 1947 Fleetline Sportmaster Sedan, the 4 door variety with the triple chrome trim. It is awsome to say the least!!
A very well kept, garaged specimen that hasn't been started in "several" years, according to the deceased owners wife. She says that up until the time of his death, he drove the car and assured me that it ran well to the best of her knowledge.
The worst case senario, of course, would be that it has some major engine problem...if so I will take care of it, the rest of the car is definately worth it.
Next week I am having it trucked to my home. Before I attempt to start it I plan to drain the gas tank and put in fresh gas...I am going to flush the radiator and probably change the oil.
Would anyone have any helpful hints as to other things I might should do before I attempt to start this engine that has been "sitting" for a while?

Hi BelAirBuff,

Perhaps the most important thing to do is to remove the spark-plugs and place a small amount of transmission fluid (type A or F) in each cylinder. This should set for a few days if possible. Then by use of the crank, if you have it, or by placing the car in gear and giving it a shove, insure that the engine has turned over at least one complete cycle.

Now you can attempt to turn the engine by the starter. I would use the starter to turn the engine over many times in order to establish some oil flow.

If this works satisfactory you can now make a serious attempt to start the engine.

I would also suggest you disconnect the gas line from the fuel pump and set up a line into a small container of fresh gas. This could be accomplished by a fitting to the fuel pump and a hose into the gas container.

If you get it to operate "congratulations", if not, come on back here with a report and more helpful information.

Hi Ray,

Many thanks for the info. I have seen discussions on this matter here before, just wasn't sure what lube to put in the cylinders.
Will definately follow the procedure.

Jim

1950 BelAir
and now.....
1947 Fleetline Sportmaster Sedan

I always make it a practice, on "new" old cars, to drop the oil pan and clean it out very well. It not only eliminates any of the sludge & unknown life forms that are in there, but the deposits also tell a lot about the condition of the engine.
You might also, depending on how long the car's been sitting, want to drain the gas tank and install a gas line filter, before running the engine from the main tank.
Check the coolant system and draining & refilling it couldn't hurt.
Best of luck with your new wheels - enjoy!
-Bob

I bought a 47 chev truck a couple years ago,,took off oil pan and Yuck!!,,,,sludge in bottom of oil pan,,,before i took off oil pan though,i checked oil,,,,looked black,but didn't see any sludge on the oilstick,,,I'm glad somebody told me to do that,,,,cleaned out oil pump screen too,,,,I think we all should do this when buying a car/truck that has been sitting for a while,,,,you never know what's down there,,just my 2 cents worth,,Dave

Thanks guys...any and all suggestions appreciated.