Hey guys/gals. 1 st post and I'm really glad I found this site. I've read very promising things and very depressing things but, I'm pretty committed to getting it at this point.

Found an old guy with the truck for sale. All the miles were put on years ago and it's just been sitting in the FL sun for 8+ years. Besides the tires and paint, I'm wondering what kind of maintenance I should do before I put'er on the road.

I know many of you guys have ridiculous miles (250+) on your 5.2L and auto transmissions. I'm not too concerned labor costs since I'm pretty familiar with a tool box. I just want to make sure she doesn't break down on me and I need to get as many miles as possible out of it with the least amount of down time due to repairs.

 

Id change all fluids do the brakes and a full tune up. And replace tires if they have been sitting for that long

 

All fluids, motor, trans, radiator, filters and air too. Check spark plugs,dist cap, wires for cracks. Check brake pads and shoes, rotors. Run seafoam through tank. If your **** like me, thermostat and flush brake fluid too. Thats what i do, people will agree to disagre. Thats ok, get some ideas and do what you want!

 

And don't forget to check the plenum.

 

A lot of good advice already given, I'd just like to add that if it's been sitting for that long even if brakes are still in good shape lube up all the appropriate contact points for calipers and shoes, and check your adjusters, wouldn't want anything to seize from nit being used to moving.

 

Great advice from all. So far it's stuff I've noted but, I would have never though of the brakes. I think a lot of people forget to lube them because it just sounds wrong.

 

Been wondering myself...whats the stock thermostat? And is it beneficial to run a cooler/hotter one?

 

I think 190 is stock. I run 180 but I have SCT tune also which allows for cooler temp.

I would check/replace shocks also. 60K is about all OEM shocks are good for. Check ball joints and tie rod ends...and do all the things listed by others.

Flsuh hte gas...it has to be stale and have moisture in it...

 

8 years,, dang hope the fuel pump is ok

 

i would be really worried about all that fuel that has been sitting in the fuel system for all them years. i would guess the you might have to tear the complete fuel system apart and clean it including dropping the tank.