Ungunking an engine that's been sitting

[AndrewWoodard]

Greetings, All.

I previously posted on my KZ305 that's been sitting in the garage for going on 20 years, and the replies I've gotten contain numerous good suggestions! (Blessings be upon those that replied.)

I'm preparing to begin in earnest on this thing, and one question I've yest to address is how best to get all the tar pit (old motor oil that's probably been reduced to pure tar by now) out of the engine.

One suggestion I've heard locally was to fill the crankcase with kerosene and let it sit for several days, repeat as necessary, and finally dry it out with a warm, mildly pressurized airflow. (This came from someone who's a known seriously good aircraft engine mechanic, so I tend to give it merit.)

Is there a better method anyone knows of? As I'm sure there are those out there that have either saved their own ride, or that of a friend or customer, I would value the advice.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

Andrew Wooodard
Charlotte, NC

[StarGate]

The kerosene is a good idea but I think you'd be wasting your time with the air afterwards. Kerosene doesn't evaporate very well and the air isn't going to force any out. After a 24 hour drain, I would just fill it with oil and a little Seafoam and run it a few minutes then drain that and put fresh oil and filter in then ride it.