I have a stock 5-spd 86 GT. The tranny blew in late '03 and the car has been sitting until present.
I got this car for my 18th birthday (I'm 30 now) and was a daily driver until the tranny failure. I have a sentimental attachment to it. My plan is to getting it running again, and then routinely put money into to keep it with me as long as possible.
I decided to get the car in a condition where I can "limp" it to a to a mechanic once I have parts.
Yesterday I changed the oil, coolant, added some gas, and installed a new battery. Initially turned over the engine without the coil wire, to build up some oil coverage in the cylinders. Reconnected the coil wire. Turned the ignition and the car would not start. After several tries I noticed the fuel pump whine is not present when turning the ignition to on. Do fuel pumps often go bad from sitting? I'm concerned the gas may have "varnished" in the tank and fuel pump. Is there an additive I should be using?
I'll try checking the fuel pump relay, inertia switch, and changing the fuel filter. Is there something else I should be trying? What would be a recommended replacement pump if I have to go this route?
Also, I'm going to need a replacement for the T-5. I wan't to avoid a rebuild. Is a new World-Class T-5 recommended for a stock daily-driver? I occasionally get wild, but the car isn't modded and probably will stay close to stock. I would consider a Tremec if it installs without major modification and isn't too much more expensive than a T-5.
Do you have any other tips, etc.?
Finally, where do you usually buy parts online? I'll be buying expensive things for awhile...
Thanks in advance.