Sitting for a Year Won't Start

[mike d]

The fuel is fine. I started another car that was down there sitting even longer today, and it ran perfectly. I didn't jump on the back bumper to mix it up. I grabbed it by the roof, rocked it, and heard the fuel sloshing all over. There's more new gas than old in there now.

I'm heading down with my volt meter tomorrow, and I'll figure out what's going on. Thanks to everyone for the great suggestions.

 

[ZackR]

Just use a cheap fluid pump and pump it out through the access hole.

This is what I would do. The tiny amount that is left won't be an issue once its diluted with fresh fuel.

 

[george_tlc]

I've had to replace a fuel pump twice in a corolla. Original pump died, replaced a couple of years ago. Then died again a few months ago, fuel sock packed with 'mud'. So, pulled the tank and cleaned out a LOT of 'stuff' that was NOT rust. Basically fuel that had been sitting for years with gum/varnish residue and more forming all the time. After cleaning (degreaser, then vinegar, then thinners, then petrol) the tank was shiny like new - so not rust.

Now that tank is clean it should be good for years, even when left for a period of time (months/year). I will keep the tank full (less condensation issues) and also put in a fuel stabilizer to hopefully prevent 'mud' re-occurring in the tank.

Anyhow, I'd pull the pump and check the fuel sock and also how 'dirty' it all is in there - even if you solve the problem some other way. Would be good preventative maintenance versus future failures.

cheers,
george.

 

[NV1971FJ40]

I usually ride my atv once a year, and never change the gas out. I put some fresh premium in it with some seafoam and after a bit of cranking she always fires up, doesn’t run the greatest but after running for a bit she clears up.