Awaking from a long winter's nap

[KensSpider]

As I saw the sun today, as opposed to the ice/snow/fog/rain/freezing weather that Gore says is attributable to Global Warming, I took a loving look at the Spider in my garage. The last time it was really driven was probably October. I did go out in late-December and start the engine and warmed it up in place for a while. Nothing since.

Was wondering if y'all had any step-by-step suggestions to wake her up from hibernation.

Thanks in advance!!

Ken

[mbouse]

I attempt to do everything necessary in the fall to avoid doing what you are talking about now. Oil change, grease job, timing belt. Tranny and rear diff top off.

antsy pants me, wants to just get in and drive on the first warm day in the spring.

i letter warm up to operating temp, after checking fuel and oil levels. While she's warmin' i check tire inflation and correct as needed.

Then, I just pop the top, add some cockpit heat, and go man, go!

[KensSpider]

Well, this was a pleasant surprise. My '75 was parked on about the last semi-warm day in October, and has sat in the garage, topless -- although the top is relatively new -- since then. I went out and started the engine once in mid-December ... but until last week, she's seen nothing but the inside of the garage.

Somewhat surprisingly, after a few pumps on the gas pedal and a few extra cranks, she popped right off. I let her idle while I checked the air pressure in the tires (all OK) and then took her for a spin around the block. Seemed absolutely unremarkable ... that is, everything worked well!! It was only in the low 60's so I didn't go far, but I am looking forward to some warmer days in the coming months.

I did notice a leak coming from the area of the rear end. It's a light, golden color, fluid that's on the garage floor and I believe there is some sort of brake valve back there ... isn't there? Perhaps working on that will be my first project of the summer season!!

Cheers!!

Ken

[Gerard Del Monte]

Up here I usually am able to start up the Spider at least once a month in the winter and run it up to operating temp by going a few miles around. This winter was tough. Just had the car out a couple of weeks ago for the first time since early December, no probs.