Do you know why the car was parked up?

?

If I were in your shoes, I’d get a new timing belt on there and run a compression check. That will help assess the state of the engine. I’m sure Tim The Wizard will have more on that topic. You’ll probably want to check the valve clearance.

?

If you have to pull the fuel tanks because of rust holes, I’ve heard that it’s easier with the engine out. It’s not actually that hard to pull the engine and transaxle, then you can get easy access to everything like water pump, timing belt tensioner, and cam holders if the valves are out. While it’s out, a good excuse to replace the throw out bearing, clutch and pressure plate to ensure years of trouble-free driving.

?

A little tip for you, and for others. I had a water pump bolt break off, so I had to pull the engine. Look up Rescue Bit on Amazon. It always me to eat out the steel bolt out of the aluminum block without too much damage to the threads. They were still there, but not strong enough to hold a bolt. Look up Time-Sert on Amazon as well. It’s basically a solid helicoil, or a headless bolt with a threaded hold down the center. You drill the aluminum hole out larger, and insert a Time-Sert, which is steel. You are then screwing your steel bolt into a steel insert. Sweet stuff.

?

Bill

?