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Classic/Antique Car Repair/1970,s bel air engine

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Expert: - 8/26/2009


Question
I have a truck with a 1970s bel-air engine in it and i don't know how to get the thirty year old oil out. Does it turn to sludge or can i drain it? How can i get the oil out?

Answer
Take out the drain plug and see what comes out.  If it flows pretty good, then pour some kerocene in it and see what comes out.  If it is really slugged up, you will have to take off the oil pan and clean it out.  My guess is that you will be able drain it and with a little flush, it should be OK.
Maybe that oil is not 30 yrs old.  If it really sat for 30 yrs, I doubt if the crank will rotate.
good luck
jack

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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jack bahm

Expertise

Only repair type questions on the 1928-1931 Ford Model A.

Experience

Owned one when I was 15 yrs old, and now have owned 5. Still own and play with 2 of them.

Organizations
Oakleaf region of MARC. Model A Restorers Club. I have put several Model A videos on the Oakleaf site that may be of help. Things like how to start the A, how to Time it, how to troubleshoot it.. Go to oakleafregion.org and you will find them. jack

Publications
"More than you need to know about cars." Just a small book for Car Nuts. Blurb.com "Model A Ford Tips and Hints" Blurb.com 2010 Many Model A movies that can be found on youtube.com/jackbahm

Education/Credentials
BSME LSU, 1958, Masters of automotive engineering from the Chrysler Institute of engineering, 1960, MBA Mich State, 1976. Worked as an engineer at Chrysler from 1958 to the end of 1991.

Awards and Honors
Two patents while working in auto industry.

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