she has been setting in the back yard for almost 2 months. last time she was started was when we moved it then. only possible issue is that the charcoal canister got smashed in the wreck. but if i only run the car for a few minutes i dont think it would be a problem would it?

tell me what you think and why. i dont want this engine to die because it sat too long.

I would say shoot for it. Have a fire extinguisher ready just incase maybe

As long as you've taken the battery out, I wouldn't be too worried. My Bonneville sat for 4 years without being started once (parked in 2000, resurrected by me in 2004). I boosted it and she started right up first try.

How bad was it smacked up? Do you have any pictures?

edit: Although I definatly don't condone leaving for 4 years....

You should be fine. Since you live in a dry area the valve cover gaskets or top engine gaskets MIGHT have dried up like mine did on my current car (but it sat for 4 years). I think the 4 year sitting point is common for the 3800 lol.

No reason why a fire should happen though. The canister should not even be an issue. Just make sure the intake box is not damaged (since you mentioned car was damaged in that area). Not a bad idea for a tune up either if a car has been sitting for a while.

i went and tried to start her, and came to one conclusion:

I HATE YOU GUYS!!!

she started right up, and ran for about 5 minutes with no problems whatsoever <the rear manifold smoked, but i think that valve cover gasket leaked a little anyway> she sounded so purty, making me wonder what it would really take to fix her. i miss my bonnie

i think i need a hug.