Posted: May-14-2008 11:32AM

Not started in 6-8 months.  Not driven in the same amount of time or longer?

Guess it's safe to try starting it, but if it hasn't been driven in longer than that other issues may surface if you try to drive it, but then again it may all work.  Still suggest cranking for oil pressure first with spark plugs out to make it easy on a low battery and to get oil up into the engine so it's there if it does start.  Then put them back in, connect them and try starting.  Good luck.

SE7EN

Posted: May-14-2008 11:09AM

OK, I just called the owner and he said it's hasn't been started in 6-8 months.  He's charging the battery now with one of those cordless chargers.  Do you all think it's safe to fire it up?

Edwin 

Posted: May-14-2008 09:12AM

Jump starting may be a bad way to begin.  Depending on how long it's been sitting, you might be well served to go slower, making sure the engine is free.  If it is free, perhaps change the oil and filter before cranking, then crank it to get oil pressure before trying to get it to start.  Buying it at a much-reduced price as a non-runner is probably a better tact, as it'll probably need a LOT more attention in a variety of costly areas (brakes and clutch components/hydraulics to mention two) before it's roadworthy.  The seller will just be happy to see it go, and if it's been sitting they likely no longer have any perspective (or concern) about its real condition - that determination is up to you.  Contact Mini Owners of Texas if you want some learned opinions about what you're considering.

SE7EN

Posted: May-14-2008 07:22AM

Clubman,

 Thanks for your response!  I would like to clarify.  What do you mean to make sure the mini is grounded the same as the other car?  I usually connect both the positive and negative terminals on the jumper car and the positive on the (dead) car and the negative to the block.  Is that what I should be doing on the mini?

Also, what do you mean by make sure the points are set correctly?

 Thanks again for the help!  Sorry for all the questions.  I'm a total noobie at these minis

Edwin 

Posted: May-14-2008 07:17AM

Clean all terminals on battery and check corrosion at starter, solenoid, and main grounding straps. Make sure the Mini is grounded the same as the other vehicle (NEG Ground). Put ground (black) jumper to engine block.

Make sure the gas is ok. It turns to varnish after sitting a while. You may need to add fresh gas and/or remove the old from the tank and carb bowl.

Make sure the points are set correctly.

Make it idiot proof, and someone will make a better idiot....

Posted: May-14-2008 06:47AM

Hi everyone,

I will be looking at a mini tonight for possible purchase and it needs to be jump started b/c its been sitting in a garage.  Is there any caution I need to be aware of before doing this?  Thanks

Edwin