Car not moved in 5 months

[The jiffle king]

Yes I know it's tardy, but my car has not moved in over 5 months, the battery is flat etc etc..I don't want a debate on why the car has not moved as I have very good reasons (no driving bans or anything like that!)

What other things should I check above the normal, and is there anything different I should do in starting it?

Many Thanks T-J-K

[over_the_hill]

One of the most important factors is whether it has been garaged or left exposed to the elements.
Obviously if outside damp and its effects may be a big problem.

After bringing the battery back up to life I would
Check all fluid levels. May be worth replacing/servicing asap as many fluids degrade with time.
Check tyres as they may have flat spotted sitting in one place for so long.
You may find that the fuel in the tank (if any) has degraded. If almost empty, not a problem, just fill it up asap. If full, may be worth syphoning off and refilling with fresh fuel.
Be wary of braking for the first few times as discs will have diubtless rusted up.
Treat fairly gently for a few hundred miles to ensure everything gets fully lubricated up again.

[edtvr]

The jiffle king said:

What other things should I check above the normal, ?

Many Thanks T-J-K

Check your pulse!!
coz after 5 months without driving it you soon have its rate up!!!

[s5tuart]

Don't forget the clutch!
Pump the pedal several times before starting your car. When you do start it keep the clutch pressed in, and once running let it out SLOWLY. Engage first and just "feather" the clutch a few times before moving away. Check your fluid levels.

[RichB]

s5tuart said:

Don't forget the clutch!
Pump the pedal several times before starting your car. When you do start it keep the clutch pressed in, and once running let it out SLOWLY. Engage first and just "feather" the clutch a few times before moving away.

Always willing to learn... so what the purpose of this?

[s5tuart]

Just checking the integrity of the cable (I ASSUME a clutch this heavy is a cable one?) and feathering just helps the mating surfaces "bed" a little.........

[Slacey]

s5tuart said:

Just checking the integrity of the cable (I ASSUME a clutch this heavy is a cable one?) and feathering just helps the mating surfaces "bed" a little.........

Nope, hydraulic...

[RichB]

Slacey said:

s5tuart said:

Just checking the integrity of the cable (I ASSUME a clutch this heavy is a cable one?) and feathering just helps the mating surfaces "bed" a little.........

Nope, hydraulic...

Indeed Stuart, and as I see you are a Chimaera owner the fluid cylinder is underneath the cover plate on the driver's side inner wing, better check it for fluid level

[s5tuart]

Thanks!!!! I have all my weekly checks to do tomorrow, so get ready for more HELP posts when I can't find things. I have a handbook to help, and the car came from a PH stalwart so I'm sure everything is tickety-boo. Thanks again.

[Paul (93 Chim)]

After 5 months I would say you're battery may be goosed or on it's way out.
I wonder if the hydraulic tappets will have lost their oil in this time, if so it may be worth following the instructions of when new lifters have been fitted?

Paul

[RichB]

s5tuart said:

Thanks!!!! I have all my weekly checks to do tomorrow, so get ready for more HELP posts when I can't find things. I have a handbook to help, and the car came from a PH stalwart so I'm sure everything is tickety-boo. Thanks again.

In all seriousness, the clutch fluid cylinder is underneath the oval shaped cover held on with 4 x cross head screws, should be checked annually but often gets overlooked for some reason. The trick is to ensure you use fresh sealant when you re-fit the cover because if it's not perfectly sealed it's a common source of water leaks when it rains!

[s5tuart]

Now that IS a good tip! Having just had 5 years of Lotus Elan ownership I will be PARANOID about any leaks in my new pride and joy!
Thanks. Stu