[Goosedog]

I have an '85 FJ60 that I unfortunately let sit in the yard for too long without good use (approx. 1 year). It will crank after a jump but won't hold a charge after running for about 20 minutes. I plan to take it to the shop to get checked out. In addition to oil/filter change and checking the alternator and determining why it won't hold a charge, what items would you have the mechanic check out, replace etc. as a result of sitting this long? Thanks very much.

[CardinalFJ60]

It's either the battery or the alternator. Or maybe just corroded connections. If you can get it to a Checker or AutoZone or Napa, they will typically test the electrical system for free. that will tell you if it's the alternator or battery (or both).

Check the battery for basic maint. - like, make sure it has water in it.

Other stuff: all the fluids- old brake fluid can get kinda corrosive - replace the brake fluid and Clutch fluid. I'd also change the driveline fluids (diffs, tranny, x-fer), and drain/refill the cooling system.

HTH

[GLTHFJ60]

Also check to make sure that the grounds are operating correctly - block to frame, etc.

[D'Animal]

You might want to add some fresh fuel to the tank and maybe replace the fuel filter.

[Goosedog]

Thanks guys. Any other thoughts are certainly welcome.

[sdbrassfield]

battery is probably toast after sitting that long...

[IndianDoc]

Originally Posted by sdbrassfield

battery is probably toast after sitting that long...

2X on the dead battery, they don't do well when discharged and stored for long time. But check the conections and others that's free.

[KingBeeIII]

Originally Posted by D'Animal

You might want to add some fresh fuel to the tank and maybe replace the fuel filter.

X2 on that and the battery is the best place to start.