1963 Other Ford Models Restore a car after 20 years in stora

KINGDAD

MEMBER
1963 FORD
6 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
56,000 MILES

I am purchasing a 1963 Ford Falcon, 6 cyl, manual transmission that has been stored for about 20 years. It apparently was running when stored. What steps should I take to get this motor running? This will be my first car to work on, and I have not been a mechanic at all in the first 60 years of my life.

Also, what manuals or guides would you recommend to get me some knowledge on the Falcon.

Thanks for any assistance you can provide.

Tom

1 Reply

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,938 POSTS

Hi there,

What model Ford is it.

Drain the sump cold, let it go over night, replace the oil filter, pre oil it first. Remove the spark plugs and pour warm engine oil into each cylinder, this will get in behind the rings and help release them if bound. Let the oil sit for a day or so, The carby will be stuffed, so be prepared to o/haul it first. Turn engine over by hand with out spark plugs this will spread some oil on the bores. Replace sump plug and fill with oil. Crank with no spark plugs, fit a oil pressure gauge and make sure you have oil pressure building up, do this in short burst10-15 sec cranks so not to over heat starter. Check ignition system, check for spark while cranking fit points if req. Do carby, drain and re fill fuel tank, replace filter. Give it a run, you will problely end up with oil leaks from ever seal and gasket as they will have dried out and shrunk over time, replace what need doing, the rear main will be a problem as it will be a rope type seal (normally for that age car) so the engine will have to be removed to repair. Valve stem seals will also be a problem, but these can be done in place. You should be able to pick up a suitable manual on line.

Let me know how it goes. Good luck

Mark (mhpautos)