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Bill6298
11-11-2025, 10:03 AM
I am getting prepped to attempt to get my DeLorean running over the holiday breaks that are coming up. I've had it since 2001 and it's been parked in my garage for longer than I care to think about. At least the fuel tank is clean/dry.

My vehicle is currently stripped down to the valley with an engine that is believed to be good. It's not seized and had good compression the last time I checked about 10 years ago. I'll repeat those tests.

My plan --

- I'll change everything in what DMCH calls their 30K miles tune up kit.

- I don't plan on pulling the engine or tearing it down, although I will change the valve cover gaskets. I have new wires, distributor cap/rotor, hoses, water pump, o-rings, and gaskets to re-assemble from this point.

- I also need a complete overhaul of the brakes and transition back from DOT 5 to DOT 4. I have new hoses, caliper rebuild kit, and master cylinder.

- The fuel system is a problem and the reason it was parked so many years ago. I have most of what I need assuming I can get the fuel distributor unstuck, assuming the cold start and frequency valves are good. I have a WUR rebuild kit, new hoses, and the original version of DMCH's "new" fuel pump with integrated sender.

Is there anything else I should tackle while the fuel system and intake is removed?

I could use some advice on the alternator and starter. Both are original.

Are these two aftermarket items that I can buy at local parts store and easy enough to adapt? Time is my problem right now so I was wondering if picking up what DMCH sells will be easier although more expensive. The alternator was a problem in the past with the AC and lights on so I really want to upgrade that. The starter is actually good. I just don't know if I can even rebuild this thing or not.

ssdelorean
11-11-2025, 11:08 AM
Over the years I have only heard of 1 starter actually going bad. I say if it works, leave it. Mine is still original and going strong. Regarding the alternator, yes, replace it if original. The new 120s are way better than the old 80s and 90 amps.

Bill6298
11-11-2025, 11:11 AM
Over the years I have only heard of 1 starter actually going bad. I say if it works, leave it. Mine is still original and going strong. Regarding the alternator, yes, replace it if original. The new 120s are way better than the old 80s and 90 amps.

Thanks. Who's alternator are you running?

ssdelorean
11-11-2025, 02:21 PM
Thanks. Who's alternator are you running?

Currently I have a DMCH 120. Put on maybe 3yrs ago? When I bought it they were also including the mounting bracket to better ensure conductivity.

My old Hervey 120 unit has been rebuilt and ready to go if this one ever conks out. Still have my Motorola 90amp on the shelf if one of my visiting friends need to limp home since that is still working but weak.

Bill6298
11-22-2025, 11:53 AM
Well, the good news is there's no sludge under the valve covers. It was remarkably clean. The old gasket and sealant took a long time to remove while trying to resist the metal razor blade. Looking at the photos carefully, I need to take a second pass with solvent. The green paper gasket was stuck only on the valve cover side fortunately.

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I still need to re-do the compression test this weekend. It was good 10 years ago but has been sitting since.

The bad news is the sight of the engine bay is not encouraging. The corrosion in the coolant passages does not look good. I did face this with a 30 year old Land Cruiser recently and was able to clean up the cooling system to the point it runs like it did in 1995.

I don't really have the space to pull this engine out and tear things down to check this out further. And if I did, would I really do that for an engine that had valley rot and has welds? I just don't know.

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Next up after lunch is to replace the hoses and other items easy to deal with while the intake is removed. The back for my water pump is corroded on the mounting surface so I actually can't re-install that today.

Timeless
11-22-2025, 01:10 PM
Hello from S. FL! I own 6350. It sat for 20 years before my ownership.

Bill6298
11-22-2025, 02:03 PM
Hello from S. FL! I own 6350. It sat for 20 years before my ownership.

Thank you. Glad to hear you got yours up and running after so long!

Timeless
11-22-2025, 02:09 PM
Thank you. Glad to hear you got yours up and running after so long!
Fully gone through mechanically + EFI. Runs fantastic, starts every time, not leaky, reliable.