Will not start after sitting for eight years and never started

1997 PONTIAC FIREBIRD
137,000 MILES • 3.8L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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BOONERP1
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I changed the oil and fuel filter put fresh gas in tank. sprayed ether in throttle body and tried to start. it fired up but wouldn't stay started. what should i do next?
Oct 17, 2020 at 4:46 AM
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DANNY L
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello, I'm Danny.

By just adding fresh gas after sitting 8 years might not get it started. How much gas was in the tank while sitting? The best thing to do is drop the tank and remove all old gas or if possible siphon all gas out of the tank. I would also suggest using the brand name SeaFoam additive gas treatment. I was able to start a car by using that after sitting 5 years. After draining old gas and adding new gas put the SeaFoam in and it should start after entering the intake system. It comes in a red and white bottle and is available at all auto parts stores. I've attached a picture below of what it looks like. Hope this helps and let us know if you have any further questions on this issue. Thanks for using 2CarPros.
Oct 17, 2020 at 9:19 AM
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STEVE W.
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,337 POSTS
To add to the above, I would verify that the fuel pump is operational. I have seen them fail because they corrode in the fuel vapor while setting. That engine has a test port on the rail so all you need is a gauge to hook on.
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator
Oct 17, 2020 at 10:32 AM
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