Old Toyota Truck

My family has about a 1993 Toyota Truck that has spent the last five-six years sitting quietly in the garage. It only has 39,000 miles on it and I am interested in bringing it back to life.



Where to begin? What questions should I be asking?

The gasoline in the fuel system has long since turned to varnish, and will have to be drained. Don’t even think of starting the truck with the old gas in the system, it will just gum things up worse than they already are.

You will, of course, need a new battery.

Rubber components such as belts, hoses, tires, and brake lines will all need careful scrutiny.

If the parking brake is engaged the shoes will surely be rusted fast to the rear drums, and may be difficult to break loose. The front brake rotors may also be badly rusted and in need of replacement.

Oil, coolant, and maybe brake fluid will need to be replaced. Inspect the air filter box and intake plumbing carefully for rodent nests. Clean as necessary.

When you finally get the engine running, expect many of the seals and gaskets, which are now dried out, to start leaking.