Hello, I am about to buy a 1974 442 that has been parked for almost 10 years. What should I do first before trying to fire the engine? I don't want to hurt it. Thanks.

 

See if the engine turns by hand first before using the starter. If you really want to do it right remove the spark plugs and put approx a teaspoon of thin oil in each cylinder and rotate the engine by hand a few times with the plugs out.

Check the oil level and if it looks really bad drain and refill the pan.

Good luck!!!

 

Ideally, remove the distributor and prime the oiling system. If that’s not feasible, disable the ignition, and crank the engine with the spark plugs removed. Crank it until the gauge (if equipped) shows oil pressure, or the light goes out.

 

If the fuel smells like varnish, drain and clean the tank first or use a remote gas can.

 

Here's a thread with some good tips, jmo.
http://www.v8buick.com/index.php?thr...ng-car.359259/