Thread: Engine start up

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The motor I have is a Mopar 340 out of a 72 Dodge charger . I was told it has been sitting for a while, but it wasn't because anything was wrong with the engine, transmission had went out. What should I do before I start the motor, what kind of oil should I first put in it and what kind of oil should I run after the first oil change being that has come from 1972. Thanks, The BUCKSTER

First thing is to get a pre-oiling hex rod. They look like an allen wrench and is about a foot long. Remove the distributor and put the rod down in the hole to connect into the gear drive for the oil pump. If the motor is in the vehicle and the oil pressure gauge is connected, after spinning the rod you can see oil pressure on the gauge. If the motor is out of the car, you can remove the valve covers and watch for oil come up to the rockers.
As far as what oil to use..............me personally .........I use in my 1975 360 Mopar motor....I like the Hot Rod & Classic 10-30W from Lucas oil. It has more zinc in then the newer oils used in todays cars.

I second pop the valve covers, also draining the oil should give a good idea of whats hidin inside.

In addition to the above, pull the plugs and add a few squirts of oil to the cylinders before you start spinning it over.

Has it had coolant in it?