Hello Folks,

I am new here and own a 1996 Monte Carlo Z34 with 3.4L DOHC engine. The car hasn't been driven regularly for almost 14 years. Since then it has been driven periodically during summers only every 2-3 years(I am in Eastern Canada). It has been in warm/dry storage since November 2015 and has approximately 100,000 easy miles on the car/engine and is in overall good shape. I know I need to drive it more, but I am hesitant to without changing the timing belt.

I have checked the belt visibly and with a dental mirror and it appears to be in very good shape with no visible fraying/wear however given how long it has been sitting and not started I wonder if the belt which is under tension in the same position for a few years may give me some grief.

I could consider changing the belt but my time would be better spent paying someone to do it.

Does anyone have any advice after taking a 3.4L Monte Carlo that hasn't been touched in several years? It was also stored with a full tank of premium gas which is still in it.....

Thanks!
Andrew

 

The timing belt is very important and should probably be changed by a professional unless you have access the the special tools involved in changing belt.The fuel should be pumped out and all fluids should be changed .If you flush radiator change the thermostat at the same time. Good luck .

 

X-2.........................