My son and I are trying to restore my old Camaro to driving condition after sitting since 2009. It originally failed inspection due to some fault in one of the taillights. We couldn't afford to fix it at the time, so it sat. Finally when we tried to have it fixed a few years later, it wouldn't start. We were told probably bad gas, and it was a lot of work to get the bad gas out, so lots more $$. We're older now, with more tools and a little more experience, but I really have no idea where to find a checklist, so to speak, of all the systems or whatever that we will need to check since she's been sitting so long. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

The first thing I would address is the condition of all the fluids, filters, etc. in the car. Get the engine running. then sort out the electronics (light problems, etc.) Then the body, finally the interior. The body and interior depend on the current condition - rust, paint damage, dents and scratches, cracked plastic components, torn seats, etc. For anyone to give you the path forward on those two items would require a detailed inspection.

To get started on fluids, filter, etc., here's a list I posted on another site relative to a 4th Gen LT1:

This is a "copy and paste" of something I posted to help an individual who bought a "94 LT1 V8". He indicated it was in good shape, but then described the problems he was having. I offered this list to tell him what you need to look at/replace when you buy a 25+ year old car.

Yours may be in better shape, maybe you have good maintenance records from the past. It's just a SUGGESTED list of what I would do on a 25+ year old car. You may or may not agree, these are just suggestions.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = =

The car is 25 years old. At this point, you should replace all fluids, and all critical maintenance items (unless you can establish that these have recently been changed):

Replace all fluids:

- engine oil

- coolant

- transmission fluid

- rear axle lubricant

- brake fluid

- power steering fluid

Inspect and replace where necessary maintenance items:

- oil filer

- fuel filter

- trans filter (auto trans only)

- air filter

- PCV valve

- spark plugs

- spark plug wires

- O2 sensors

Clean the complete fuel system:

- tank

- fuel pump sock

- filter

- lines and rails

- injectors

- check fuel pressure regulator for leaks

Test and replace if necessary:

- ignition control module

- battery

Inspect and replace if necessary:

- tires

- suspension bushings

- shock absorbers

- fuel lines

- brake lines

- brake pads

- brake rotors

- windshield washer blades

- signs of front suspension misalignment

- signs of tire/wheel imbalance

- signs of worn shock absorbers

- vacuum lines

Use premium fuel (91-octane minimum) with V8 models for maximum performance.

Use fluids and components that meet the standards outlined in the Owner's Manual.

OBTAIN A COPY OF THE 1995 OWNER'S MANUAL IF YOU DO NOT ALREADY HAVE ONE. Read it and ask questions about things that are unclear. Download a copy at the GM Owner Center website.

Download a FREE copy of the 1995 factory service manual, courtesy of GaryDoug:

http://www.mediafire.com/?40mfgeoe4ctti

When you are ready to get the engine running, download a FREE copy of Scan9495 scanning/data logging software, also courtesy of GaryDoug:

https://www.camaroz28.com/forums/com...95-lt1-874306/

To run the data log, and to help interpret the data:

https://www.camaroz28.com/forums/com...-guide-886891/


I may have missed a few things - others can fill in the blanks.

 

Very nice list. I restored a Camaro that sat for years and the exhaust system was the worst part of the vehicle. The mufflers were full of holes. I heard stories where the old fuel was pumped out new gas added and the vehicle started right up. Probably depends if it's in a garage or outside all that time and your location. I would get it running and do the fuel filter once you run the vehicle a little bit.

 

Injuneer is the MAN! That is the type of post I miss reading!! You deserve a major pat on the back for how helpful you are Fred.

 

Start @ the bank, and second mortgage your home to fix the "money pit", You will wind up spending more money than the vehicle is worth. JMHO

 

Hope the restoration is going well. I did mine about 2 years ago. Spent about 8k on the motor. Just parts, I did everything myself including stripping the block and starting from scratch. Old Betsy is now a beast. Idk how much in total it was. But I started with a solid shell. Very little rust to deal with. If I could have done a little more research. I would have put a ls big block k member on. Would have been cheaper. But I have an engine that you don’t see built up to often. And I haven’t lost to any ls cars yet. Yet lol. I avoid them 5.3 turbos until I get mine boosted. But then I’m ripping the engine down again.

In all it’s worth it to be a little different. If you haven’t already I highly recommend a 6 speed transmission. So much fun. There is also some really knowledgeable guys on here. They have helped me in the past. I will try to keep tabs on this thread. Maybe I could even give you a few pointers. Good luck with the build. Hope it turns out bad ***

 

agreed. This man has helped me a lot. Great guy