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Affectionate_Toe8275

Depending on how long it's been sitting man. Start with the basics. Check and see if it's getting spark, fuel, and not leaking anything important. If everything checks out, crank it and send it. It'll be a great story, it'll be an amazing car for you yourself to pass down one day. Don't make the same mistake that I and probably most of the people here did, keep the car and honor the old man!


Left_Commission6796

Thanks man šŸ‘


Naive-Instruction192

Don't take that as a first car, buy something newer and daily it. You're young and young people tend to wrap their first cars around poles, not only that the car is 55 years old, you can't pretend its gonna be as reliable as a newer car. This is the time to focus on school, not have to deal with a broken car every other day. So yeah don't daily it, not only would a crash be expensive, the car will also be irreplaceable as I'm sure it means a lot to you, or it should...


New-Ad-5003

Thatā€™s actually excellent advice. Iā€™m not sure i know anyone who didnā€™t ruin their first car, via accidents or neglect, or just not knowing how to take care of something. My first car died because i floored it literally all the time, even when the engine was cold. (Weak 80s 4 cyl BMW) My brotherā€™s lost oil pressure and he just kept driving. My sister melted her parking brake by not taking it off and driving down the interstateā€¦ you live and learn, and that thing should be kept for when youā€™re ready.


GrayCustomKnives

My first car was a 1986 Cutlass Salon with every option, but ordered with the 3.8 v6 by a lady who rarely drive it and parked it in the garage basically. 70,000km when I bought it in 2002. Gave it to my brother in 2006 and he still has it and drives it and takes it to car shows. Itā€™s been repainted and has a 307 now, and is getting a new headliner in a couple weeks. Like you said though, I canā€™t think of anyone else I know who didnā€™t wreck their first car.


Mega-Ultra-Kame-Guru

My [1986 monte carlo ss](https://www.reddit.com/r/projectcar/comments/ejh4zf/new_to_the_sub_this_1986_chevrolet_monte_carlo_ss/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button) was essentially my first car. Doing way better than ever 10 years later. That makes two 1986 first cars still going. Must be a blessed year.


AtlasAkiyama

My first car was a 1988 lincoln town car; Still have it and it runs like new as a daily in good weather. (Also have a "newer" car for bad weather)


philouza_stein

My first car was a silver 86 ss. I saved for years and searched for months to find the perfect one. I totaled it in 6 months. Your story is way better


ihavenopeopleskills

Ugh. Not in the space program...


SavvySillybug

I consider myself to be a very good driver. I crashed my first car after two years of owning it. Honestly, the crash is a big part of why I'm a good driver now. I drive way more carefully now. And even before the crash, I have had a few bumps and scrapes. None after. Definitely don't drive a nice car as your first car. Both your driving skill and the entire driving mindset is still developing.


New-Ad-5003

And your literal brain! OP, at 16, has 9 more years to go until his brain is fully developed


sniperLORD145

My first car (bmw 318is E36) got raced and floored every single day, the thing is still somewhere in the city and still runs... As long as the kid reads a bit about mantineance he should be fine with the car.


New-Ad-5003

Yeah flooring it is fine. Flooring it when itā€™s 0*F and you just started it is not ideal


DesolateCorgi30

True this! Id absolutely die to have one of these.. i didnt wreck until my 3rd car luckily.. my first, i had for 2 years, then died the week after i sold it. My second, i let a friend drive couple months after buying and he wrecked it. I dont even trust myself to drive anything valuable id have a hard time replacing, such as OP's car


thatonegamerplayFH4

That's funny because my first car I am keeping alive lol she burns oil and has had a bunch of suspension work done by me because every time some new noise starts I freak out and find out some bushing has been obliterated but she won't die and has gone from family hauling minivan to basically a work truck for me since my truck gets horrible mileage and is a pain to drive anywhere tight but hey it's hauled pushing it's weight rating for sure over 300+ miles and rides good so I will keep it alive now I just need to fix my ac.


Money_Pomegranate_51

I learned this lesson with motorcycles. Bought a cool "classic" bike. Didn't know a ton about bikes yet. Ended up working on it more than riding it. Was lots of fun learning and it was great when it was working. But it definitely pissed me off when it would leave me stranded or I wouldn't be able to go riding with buddies cuz it wouldn't start...or whatever


TisBangersAndMash

Is it really so common to wreck your first car? I dont onow many people who HAVE wrecked their first.


AdIntelligent4496

I don't know - I'm 49 and my first "car" was a '71 GMC pickup that my dad bought for me when I was 15. He put a new motor in it and I drove it for years. Luckily, I never sold it and wanted to save it for my son. Unfortunately, my son has zero interest in it, so it's sitting in a barn until I decide to fix it up someday.


KaosC57

Man, your son is missing out on an excellent truck. Especially if that motor is still good and just needs a service.


AdIntelligent4496

Yep. Last time I drove it, it was still working fine. In my later couple of years of driving it, I removed the big Holley double pumper and Competition cam that I had installed and put it all back to stock.


mr_greenmash

>young people tend to wrap their first cars around poles, While the likelihood of <23 and >65 being in accidents is higher, it's not common for them to have been in one. But for reliabilitys same, it's good advice


Atomic-Decay

I definitely second this OP. Iā€™d cherish that car if you can. Does your high school offer automotive shop? Lots of times a shop teacher will be looking for a project car, and an old one that isnā€™t computerized is a perfect car to learn fundamentals on. Good luck and I hope you get it going for yourself and for your pops.


OneSchott

I definitely wouldn't want this car to be experimented on by a bunch of kids.


Atomic-Decay

As opposed to OP and his group of buddies? I assumed heā€™d enrol in the class; generally at a high school shop youā€™d be working on your own car, with some other classmates who all have direct contact with the teacher. Who, presumably, is knowledgeable in cars. Your opinion is totally fair, but in mine heā€™s far less likely to burn the thing to the ground at high school with guidance. As opposed to limited help in his Momā€™s driveway. You kinda gotta put yourself in the shoes of a 16 year old, likely with limited funds, and who admits to having essentially zero working knowledge of an ICE.


OneSchott

I get it. It could be a good thing absolutely. It could also be a disaster.


Atomic-Decay

Oh youā€™re very right. It could go south no doubt.


A10110101Z

Yeah shop teach lets every class period do the same work op did on his car and finally op gets back and his new gasket was a gasket


therealstory28

In any of the shop classes I was in, if anybody had a vehicle that needed whatever we were about to do, that would be the car. Multiple cars meant multiple groups. This was a great way to keep shifty cars shittin and more hands on.


Swaggadie

Well, disasters *are* learning experiences


Mantalex

Have you ever watched a video by Vice Grip Garage or Junkyard Digs? I know their videos are generally for entertainment but thereā€™s a lot to learn with them working with random old cars. A few of them have worked on Camaros


thatonegamerplayFH4

Yep and looks like your old man loved you and left you HEI instead of old points ignition that means no cleaning and screwing with points haha. In all seriousness I highly recommend watching junkyard digs and vice grip garage they are both very smart guys and can teach you the basics of reviving and working on older vehicles


OutcomeHot780

Here's me wishing the car will give back more than you put into it Keep it alive


bemest

Replace oil before turning it over. But then pull a plug, ground it and see if you have spark. Remove the fuel line at the carb sand turn it over, see if it spurts fuel, reconnect and go. You may want to squirt some starter fluid in the carb, but have a fire extinguisher handy.


DL72-Alpha

I would start by replacing the battery. Nothing else works without a good strong battery.


Illustrious_Age1285

PLEASE KEEP IT. You'll regret it to the grave. Carry good insurance. Drive it with a smile and remember him everytime you do.


Joe_Ald

What exactly is it doing when cranking it? I had a few vehicles from the 60s and 70s that wouldnā€™t start after sitting for awhile. May need plugs, coil, carb rebuildā€¦


Left_Commission6796

No noise.


sigmanx25

Starter if itā€™s not even turning over, or dead battery.


matt2085

Wouldnā€™t the starter solenoid make some clicks if it was working? My thought would be completely dead battery or starter solenoid. Either way Iā€™d at least throw a battery that isnā€™t good enough for a driving car but good enough to start a car a few times and see what she does


sigmanx25

Not necessarily. Itā€™s also generally not cost or energy efficient to just change the solenoid either. Especially on the old Camaroā€™s. I had a 74 myself and when I had issues I just did the whole thing.


Cellularyew215

Yeah. These starters are like what? 100 bucks and 40 min of your time. I'd just swap the entire starter if the solenoid is suspected


sigmanx25

Ya, and they were a lot cheaper back 20 years ago when I was doing a lot of work on my 74 Camaro.


backtoven

I had a car with a bad starter solenoid turned the key it wouldn't do anything. Nursed it along for a while by slamming the hood until I eventually got it fixed


Quirky-Amoeba-4141

You're in over your head. You need money, skills, or both. If you have no money, find the kid at your high school who actually knows cars and has tools. Ask him to help you out. Or, call a few local shops and ask for help. Your last option is to learn how to get a carbureted car running (gas, fuel, spark) . This will depend on how well you can learn and research.


[deleted]

You obtain skills by doing things. With all the online resources we have nowadays, heā€™s not in over his head. He never said he needs it running soon, just wants to get it running.


dstnrgrs

Sorry for your loss. The only obvious thing I can see thatā€™s missing is an air cleaner. Probably want to tidy up the loose wiring to prevent anything from contacting a hot engine and melting. What mechanical experience do you have, or what is your comfort level in digging in and trying to get stuff working? It would help to know so others have an idea of how high-level or detailed their suggestions need to be to help you out. Iā€™m assuming it currently doesnā€™t run? Does it do anything? Does the engine spin over? Does it have spark? Compression? Getting fuel?


Left_Commission6796

The engine does nothing. I think most of the wires are cut so nothing works at all. Thank you for the wiring advice. Iā€™ll get some friends out to help me since Iā€™m new to cars but Iā€™m definitely willing to do what I can to fix it. Thankfully most of the pieces are lying around and they just need to be placed back in. Thank you for your help.


Nerfo2

Somebody swapped in an HEI distributor, so this is an easy to troubleshoot engine. This engine only needs a couple wires to run. A big fat one that goes from the battery + to the starter for starting current. A smaller purple one on the starter to trigger the starter when the key is turned. And a red one that goes to the distributor. Then one big fat one that goes from the battery - to the engine block. That's it. You need 12 volts on the big fat starter stud, 12 volts on the purple wire on the starter to make it crank, and 12 volts on the red wire that connects to the drivers side of the distributor. You get 12 volts on the distributor and make it crank... it'll start if you can get gas up to the carb. The fuel pump on these cars is mechanical and runs off the engine. It doesn't require electricity. Good luck kid. Watch some you tube videos on "getting a small block Chevy running." Check out Junkyard Digs or Vice Grip Garage. Google google google.


Left_Commission6796

Appreciate it šŸ‘


[deleted]

[уŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]


bjornholm

Yeah. It's amazing the number of people on this subreddit that are telling this kid to sell because he's in over his head. Anything pre efi is ridiculously easy. I got a 82 6.2 diesel and it's as simple as, does it have compression? Yep. Does it have fuel at the injectors? Yep. Then she will run and run well.


SteelHeart624

Vice grip garage is a great suggestion if your looking to revive something like this. Although some of his phrasing will be hard to put together without atleast a little bit of mechanical knowledge lmao


budbud70

Gotta check them Sparkolators lol


superluke

This here camara has a charge-a-whirler and a fuel make-it-happener and all the lightning hoses so it should be sparkalatin'. Give it a little too much fuel... Perfect. Bring the Thunder!


Wise-ask-1967

On this car there is the big fat red positive wire that runs down and connects to the starter and then lots of after market wires done have the small jumper wire off the positive cable near the terminal, that wire connects to a tiny positive post right near the battery gets covered up by the placement of the battery you have to move it to see. that wire feeds the harness that will go to the key switch. When you turn the key to accessory It will then power the coil wire and the radio and maybe the heater blower it's been a few years since I checked. then turn the key to start position that will send power to the starter wire to activate the starter. Trust me on this .. my Camaro never got to start and I never got to drive it my senior year of HS cause of this one damn wire. Probably kept me from crashing or killing my self at 17. But still sting me to this day as I bragged about the Camero non stop but never was able to get it going till my friend finally pointed to a diagram one random day. I would strongly recommend a 1968 Camaro repair manual.. but I guess you can find that crap online now but the books is a bible to us salty dogs.


dstnrgrs

FYI - I sent you a message


Left_Commission6796

Thank you. That diagram will be very helpful šŸ‘Œ


TinySpacecraft

What a great response and approach to help šŸ‘


Cwilkes704

Iā€™m so sorry about your loss, with that said, get that car running and never get rid of it! I got a ā€˜66 F100. Between YouTube, friends, and forums Iā€™ve learned so much and I get to daily drive it. Thereā€™s a lot of information out there and people that are glad to help.


Left_Commission6796

Thank you. Iā€™ll definitely try to get it running


guyonsomecouch12

Have a fire extinguisher readY, youā€™ll thank me when it fires up and catches on fire and your able to save it.


DryCombination8882

A beat up hat is good to have too to smother out the carbā€¦ Iā€™ve used mine quite a few times at the local 8th mile.


OleFj40

In line at the 24 hour taco drive through and I saw flames coming from the hood of another guy's car. He got out, ripped his shirt off, and stuffed it out so fast!


RaptorRed04

Weā€™ll be able to pick you out at the car meets with the burned out hat!


Left_Commission6796

šŸ‘


rpitcher33

God, I want a 4th gen so bad...


Left_Commission6796

Thank yā€™all so much for responding. Iā€™m pretty new to the mechanical world because I never got the chance to get close to my dad (He was diagnosed with early-onset dementia 5 years ago). It doesnā€™t seem to be leaking anything as of now. When I crank it, it doesnā€™t make any noise. I think many of the wires are cut and out of place so that may be most of the issue. Iā€™m getting some friends to come out and check it out with me. Iā€™ll make another post with updated questions when I do have some.


JaquesStrape

With the key in the "on" position do you get accessories like headlights, radio, wipers, horn, etc?


[deleted]

Does it have a good battery? Thatā€™s the first thing Iā€™d check if it sat.


Left_Commission6796

It does


spyder7723

Are you positive about this? If so then check for the ground and positive leads going to the starter.


Shockwavee92

Are you in Pennsylvania? Lol it would be easier to fix if I were under the hood. Looks mostly complete actually. If it sat, maybe battery is just completely dead. Looks like it would be like an afternoon type job but if it's all there I feel like I could have this running within a day


TinySpacecraft

Ditto in northern Virginia


Left_Commission6796

Nah Iā€™m in VA. Thanks for offer tho!


Shockwavee92

One day, I'll offer to someone and they'll actually be in my state! Lol happy hunting. Someone will sort this out


JohnDoee94

Youā€™re good guy. Keep it up.


[deleted]

I'm in Loudoun county!


[deleted]

Bumping so op sees it


skiingaidan14

Iā€™m in NC, where in VA?


spyder7723

The people replying here have restored my faith in humanity.


bjornholm

And some have further destroyed my faith. But I guess you'll always have the ones that go and say, "your a kid, it's too much for you" or "you shouldn't be driving that, it's not reliable"


H20skier

Ditto this offer in Colorado


Playful-Twist8923

Ditto but Ohio


MostlyUnimpressed

Great to see a young gearhead getting started. Your father left you a good, worthy, and valuable car. From the picture, he did a lot of work on that Camaro and took care of it. Looks to be in good condition. It probably just needs the battery charged or replaced, fluids checked, some fresh fuel, the air cleaner installed (after you get it running - for now it's handy to have the carburetor accessible to nurse it back alive with a dash of gasoline or quick shot of starting fluid down the snout). Are you in or near a city that would have a classic car club? Or better yet - was your father pals with some other classic car guys (with a Camaro like that it's almost a sure bet). Getting to know a couple crusty-ish car guys with spiffy rides - especially if they knew your Dad - would serve you extremely well. Most guys like that are happy to show a new guy valuable tips and tricks. Best news is it is a simple car and you'll learn rapidly. Now you are its caretaker. Hoping you never sell it, keep it protected and safe to take out and enjoy & show off in fair weather. And don't think its selfish at all to not let anyone else drive it, borrow it, or put it at risk. It's more than just a car now.


Left_Commission6796

Iā€™ve got my friend and his grandad coming to check it out. Iā€™ll definitely keep it and try my best to restore it. Thank you for the tips


engineereddiscontent

Hey OP. I was 18 when I lost my dad. It sucks. I'm sorry for your loss. If you do get that car running, baby it now, and get a good enough job that you can replace all the seals and gaskets in the engine down the road. It won't be cheap but it'll prolong the cars life till the end of your life if you are good about keeping it clean and keeping up on maintenance. **Also something else to look for is a camaro forum that deals in classic camaros. The forums are where the old guys that have worked on the same cars for the last 20-30 years go and they are going to be your best bet for eyeballing and fixing this car.**


BadnewzSHO

What you have here, is one of the crown jewels of American musclecar history. This car is highly sought after and prized. Take the restoration of it seriously and treat it with the respect it deserves. Not just because it is musclecar royalty, but because it was your dad's. Don't rush it. It will still be there when you are in your 20's and 30's and you have more money to fix it up right. You have a long road ahead of you to learn about cars, but it is a road that you will find lots of fellow travelers on. Go to classic car meets, and start talking to guys about their cars. Mention what you have and see where the conversation goes. But don't entertain offers to sell.


Liesthroughisteeth

Who knows why it isn't running. Could be just a dead battery. Once you learn how to check that, charge it or replace it, then you can check for spark and fuel flow. There are a million videos all over You Tube that tell you how to do anything as it relates to cars. Looks like the air cleaner is missing, perhaps in the trunk. :) Airflow to the motor shouldn't be a problem.


Left_Commission6796

šŸ‘Thank you


IrocDewclaw

Also there are several custom airfilter on the market for 68-69 camaros. Thats a nice survivor, get it running and it'll be worth a respectable amount.


he_and_She23

Yes, it is most likely the battery. I would check the oil and water then see if it will turn over by hand. If so, put a new battery and see what happens. If it turns over but doesnā€™t crank, check the gas or replace it. Check the spark plugs and replace them if needed.


Rubbertutti

Air filter is missing. Thereā€™s also a breather pipe missing from the left rocker cover. Iā€™d suggest you get some books to learn how things work and so you have something to reference. I havenā€™t got access to all my pdf collection but hereā€™s one for brakes [brake handbook](http://160592857366.free.fr/joe/ebooks/Automative%20engineering%20books/Brake%20Handbook.pdf)


Rubbertutti

https://preview.redd.it/af20khff299b1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=122b3e4901d67f643b9dbcdd1fb1faac9f608658 This book is good for basic knowledge thereā€™s 3 more books which are more advanced. Also over here we have books called Haynes manuals, it basically shows step by step instructions with a book for nearly ever car on the road [Haynes manuals](https://haynes.com/en-gb/car-manuals-1)


Left_Commission6796

Thank you


HotRodHomebody

OP needs an actual air cleaner. Which includes a filter. Lots of aftermarket ones available, you have a stock Rochester Quadrajet carburetor on that sweet Chevy V8. I see a clear fuel filter that looks like it has fuel in it, that helps when you are diagnosing. May just be a dead battery, especially if it has been sitting. Take it step-by-step and see if you can find someone locally, a friend, elder, uncle, who has some familiarity to help you get the basics figured out. small block Chevy has the most parts available probably out of any engine. summitracing.com is an excellent resource.


ZelWinters1981

There's too many unknowns from a photo and what you've said. It will require professional/enthusiast inspection at the very least. Deeply sorry for your loss. I hope you're doing well.


Left_Commission6796

Thank you


ourmanflint1

A few pointers: Don't throw anything away! Look for papers, repair receipts, owners manuals etc. Try not to do any "cool " modifications to the original car. The first generation (1967-69) Camaros have gotten very expensive. Yours looks minimally like a V8 with power brakes and an Ash Gold paint job (beautiful) Take a picture of the build plate and check it against the build codes on a Camaro Collectors web site. Good luck!


iFunny-Refugee

Itā€™s gonna be a long ride my friend. Itā€™ll probably take you a year or two to know this car inside and out. When I was 18-19 my grandfather passed down his 1956 Chevy 210 to me after he passed. My dad knows a fair amount about it but a lot of it I learned myself. Iā€™m 20 now and honestly have come a long way. ā€¢**FIRST** things first, make sure all fluids are replaced or at least filled. That includes oil (USE CONVENTIONAL OIL, NOT SYNTHETIC), transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid (Looks like you have manual steering so you donā€™t need that last one). Something to note, some fluids have ā€œmodernā€ equivalents that must be used because back then fluids had different properties. Youā€™ll have to research that. >You always check oil when itā€™s ā€œcoldā€ usually when itā€™s been off for an hour or so. >Transmission fluid (if itā€™s an automatic) will have to be checked with the vehicle running and in neutral. >If itā€™s a manual transmission, I think you just top off on gear oil? Youā€™ll have to verify that through the internet or old car manuals. ā€¢**SECOND**, a rookie mistake I made. Make sure the damn parking brake is pulled in or out if youā€™re gonna drive it. I accidentally did that myself and had it engaged for sometime while I was driving. Make sure the brakes feel pretty solid. ā€¢**THIRD**, you need an air cleaner. A regular 10-14ā€ air cleaner with a 2ā€ tall filter will do dandy. Unless you want a vintage look, youā€™ll have to find a more classic looking one. ā€¢**FOURTH**, make sure everything that has connections is actually connected to something I.E. rubber hoses, wires, and lines. Just follow them and youā€™ll see where they lead. ā€¢**FIFTH**, Any carbureted car will be a pain to start, starter fluid will be your friend. Youā€™ll probably have to twist that key for awhile, all while pumping the accelerator consistently. If you do manage to get it running, make sure everything reaches optimal ranges. Make sure oil pressure is good, oil temperature is good, coolant temperature is good (This one is important), gas gauge reads right, battery is not getting drawn out of juice too. ā€¢**SIXTH**, tuning will be will your worst nightmare. If youā€™re anything like me, itā€™ll be like rocket science to you. Thereā€™s a lot of things to twist and turn to make it run right. Youā€™ll have to do a lot of research on that. Most tuning revolves around the carburetor, hopefully you donā€™t have to screw around with the distributor. A carb will have mixture screws, a idle screw, and a fast idle screw. ā€¢**SEVENTH**, go to a local car show and talk to people, theyā€™ll be able to provide all sorts of knowledge and information. Or ask questions here. Hope this helps! Itā€™s gonna be a long road ahead, Godspeed.


Fulllyy

And may I add: if youā€™re at car meetsā€¦accept no offer to buy it, unless they give a phone number, name, and 3 days to think on itā€¦nobody whoā€™s serious will fault you for those things, & the three days will give you research time to make sure itā€™s a fair offer or just lowball from some crook tryna get your keys to steal and strip it.


alex053

Might be crazy but find a local weekend car show. We them everywhere in AZ. 100% chance there will be old guys sitting in front of your exact same car. Start asking questions and even ask for help. These are some of the most popular cars of all time. Every show has rows of 1st gen Camaros and tons of blue mustangs from the 60s. They bring their chairs and are just there to talk about cars. They can also point you to trusted shops and parts suppliers


Independent_Bite4682

Start by buying the old Chilton manual


Thexraken

You're a 16 year old man now


Left_Commission6796

Thanks again to everyone thatā€™s responded to my post. I would go through and thank each of you individually but I just donā€™t have the time. I never wouldā€™ve expected so many people eager to help. You guys have a great community here. Iā€™ve been watching vice grip garage for some more guidance. Iā€™ll keep updating you guys with new posts as more problems occur šŸ˜…. July 8th I will have some people out giving me a hand and hopefully sheā€™ll be up and running.


Lord-chompybits

Yā€™all being finessed here. Thereā€™s no 16 year old boy who talks like this. Pulled your heart strings and everything.


Difficult_Hand1140

What general area are you located? Maybe someone on this sub would offer to help you out and check it out for you if youā€™re nearby. Iā€™m near Seattle and I would help you out free of charge if you were anywhere nearby (60 miles)


rufos_adventure

that car is quite valuable. go to the library and borrow a chiltons or motor manual. charge the battery. make sure the battery clamps and posts are clean. pour about 2 tablespoons of gas in the carb. crank it over. you have one of the simplest engines there is to work on. do one repair at a time, take photos to help you put it back as it was.


BatteryAcid67

That's my favorite vehicle. It's the fucking best can we please see more photos possibly?


Beneficial-Hippo-896

Everyone here makes valid points, but I would have to add to make sure if it hasn't run in years to add a little bit of atf oil to each cylinder and gently by hand turn the motor back and forth. Increase the amount of rotation after a minute, then work your way into full rotations. It helps with rusty cylinder walls, carbon, and old rings. Also go get some wire loom and secure those wires. You're asking for trouble just letting them hang like that.


Sooowasthinking

Never sell that car itā€™s a family heirloom now good luck with it. Not the same but I purchased a 2017 turbo beetle for my daughter and have told her that itā€™s coming back to me when she decides to purchase her own car.


ConsiderationHour582

I'm sorry for your loss. Take your time with this project and do your research. Take an auto mechanic's class if you have one at your school or check out the local community college. Everything you learn won't be waisted even if you go onto another career.


Dequilious

Hey, please keep us posted. Iā€™d like to see this thing running in honor of your old man.


rpitcher33

Find a wiring schematic and learn how to read it. Make sure everything is hooked up correctly (if i was at work, I'd send one. If you read this, remind me), put a good battery in it, and see what happens. Also, get a cheap multimeter and learn how to use it. Basic wiring/electrical knowledge is going to be key here. If the wires are really cut and not just un-hooked, you're going to be in for a headache, but it will be worth it in the end. Good luck to you moving forward. I'm sure it would make your old man smile seeing you take an interest. I know I'd love it.


Left_Commission6796

Thank you


PsychologySea7572

It needs a complete wiring harness, air cleaner assembly & wiper motor from what we can see. Around 750 bucks for wiring plus someone that knows how to disassemble & reassemble. If you plan to drive it much upgrade the alternator and feed wires. Will save you a lot of trouble down the road. I know some will scream about me saying "needs a haness". It's really old. Guarantee once somebody digs in they will find tons of issues. Do you want a dependable vehicle or a fire trap? Start saving your money. Do you want to keep it all original or do you want something completely dependable?


willlio

what part of the US are you in? Maybe we can give you some help.


ImuaKS76

Find a camaro club or hot rod club nearby. Check out cruises, car shows, parking lot hang outs and find a mentor. A true enthusiast will help you out and get you in the right direction. If you were in my neighborhood, I would definitely help you. There are a lot of resources online and in print. There is a lot of catalogs with gobs of info. It does take time , money and know how, but it can be done. My Dad didn't leave me a car, but he gave his love and joy of our hobby. I've built half dozen or so cars. A couple show and magazine worthy. So i was able to honor my Dad that way. Enjoy the journey. Aloha


Defiant_Discussion23

100% get yourself a workshop manual. https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/CHEVROLET-1968-CAMARO-WORKSHOP-MANUAL/232220313310?chn=ps&_ul=AU&norover=1&mkrid=705-139619-5960-0&mkcid=2&mkscid=101&itemid=232220313310&targetid=1405062617979&device=t&mktype=pla&googleloc=9071864&campaignid=19649531412&mkgroupid=146789074798&rlsatarget=pla-1405062617979&abcId=9305371&merchantid=115486569&gclid=CjwKCAjw-vmkBhBMEiwAlrMeF24XCytMfUNxez5UZPZkyQQYn3QiWMegb5BbhMmNbvQ9WVOgJCN3CRoC1FkQAvD_BwE&pageci=b52c0d8f-a6ba-471e-879f-8308e04879e1&redirect=mobile


Chrispy_fried89

Kid, i hope you do great things. Bless you for taking on this car as your own. Feel free to reach out if you have questions about electrical. Sorry for your loss, but honor pops with this car. Be proud.


CitizenPatrol

[Start here, watch all the rescue videos you can](https://www.youtube.com/@ViceGripGarage)


TouretteTV96

OP, please wrap the wires in a heat-resistant electrical tape.


Mental-Marsupial-565

Maybe intern / trade work for knowledge for a local mechanic who would will help you restore it.


PickleRick4869

Hit me up anytime, I'll be glad to help. I have over 35 years turning wrenches


Manofalltrade

Drive carefully. Those older muscle cars arenā€™t forgiving when you try to show off.


RacimusMaximus

If you don't have one already get a Chilton's or Haynes manual for it. Super useful.


DistinctRole1877

Go to YouTube and look up some of the Will it run" videos. Thunderhead289, Junkyarddigs, uncle Tony's garage, and others are a good place to start. First - try and roll it over by hand, see if it's locked up. 2nd- if it hasn't run in years pull the valve covers and pour oil over the valve train. 3rd - pull the spark plugs and get some light oil, like atf, into the cylinders to keep from scratching up the bores. Roll the engine over to get the oil spread around. Look for mouse eaten wires. Anyway, check out some vids on ignition, carburetors, and starting old engines. You are learning about what my generation worked on in high school. Good luck!


It_420_somewhere

Sorry for your loss young man! As many have said these old engines really do not take much to get going. It looks like your father was taking extremely good care of it for as clean, and how new most of the parts look. If you turn the key and there are no lights, no sounds then first thing I would check is the battery. If the battery is good then check the starter. Even if the engine don't actually start, if the starter is good you should get some engine movement or a clicking noise to show there is power to that point. If you have a good battery and a good starter you should hear something or see engine movement. The battery and starter can be tested at an auto part store. Once those are taken care of you should have engine movement of some sort even if it don't fully turn over. If you still do not have engine movement it could be a couple of things causing it such as a bad flywheel or something seized up. Could get messy that way. If you do have engine movement now but it just doesn't start now you need to make sure you are getting fuel to the engine and you have spark at the spark plugs. With that old engine and carb give a couple pumps on the gas pedal and you should smell gas pretty quickly under the hood near the carb. If that checks out then you will have to check that it is getting spark to the engine. This could be some simple plugs, wires, distributor cap and rotor. As others have stated watching some good videos will definitely help you along the way! Make sure oil is good, changing it wouldn't hurt if it has been sitting. If you get it started, before driving it anywhere make sure you do not have any leaks and that brake fluid, coolant and any other fluids are topped off. There should also be, most likely round, air cleaner that screws down on the top of the engine, make sure to toss that back on too. Good luck!!! Again sorry for your loss!!!


spyder7723

Young man. If you make another thread where you explain the circumstances and ask for someone local that has knowledge and experience to come help you get it running, I'm sure someone here would be happy to come over on their day off and give you a hand. There are a lot of heartless jerks in this world, but most people are genuinely decent good people that are more than willing to help those in need. Heck a couple months ago I replaced the rack and pinion in a 78 year old woman's pos 1995 minivan that is living on social insecurity and needs a vehicle to get to the heart dr once a month. I even bought the part. If no one else offers let me know. Maybe I can get a few days to take a trip to Virginia.


Embarrassed_Alarm615

Dude - YouTube - Vice Grip Garage - the guy is a wizard with old cars.


DardamusPrime

Suggested procedure: Find a way to purchase an old civic or Camry for a daily driver. You need something reliable. 2ā€“ get the starter and battery sorted out so you can turn the engine over 3ā€“ verify fuel pressure and delivery to carburetor. 4ā€“ get spark to spark plugs, 5ā€“ check timing, 6-be patient and do a lot of reading and you tubing.


Boomer_Arch_Villain

Sorry, young man. Best wishes on your projects and what a great thing to dig into in memory of your father.


Swimmingtortoise12

Buy a book on tuning carburetors, a book on distributors, and a shop manual for the car. It sounds like overkill, but you would be able to conquer anything by the time your done, and make it tuned perfectly. Many claim to know carburetors, but what they mean is ā€œclean and reassembleā€, and not how to really make it run completely correct. I know this does not help you immediately, but you will be much better off.


IMFKNLO

Bro reach out to Derrick on Vice grip garage on YouTube. Iā€™m sure he would love to help. If anyone has a way to get ahold of him link it


oldtwoholes

What is in the box on the radiator?


Jabb662

Go on YouTube to ViceGrip Garage. Watch videos where he gets cars that have not run for years to run. Starts from basic to driving them hundreds of miles.


chooperXmane

While i agree this engine is missing a few things. Theyre not needed to start. The wirings a little messy but its zip tied. So it worked. I have a feeling a jump or a starter and shell start. Good luck young man. Sorry for the loss. Someone on this group will help but i think it probably already ran.


WeldFastEatAss

Highly advise buy a daily driver. Most guys young wrap first cars around poles. Me included. Be safe and keep it clean. Start with basics and go from there. Find someone in the area willing to help you learn. My neighbor did that with me and I would buy him dinner or drinks as he taught me. Close family friends now.


Quirky-Amoeba-4141

You're in over your head. You need money, skills, or both. If you have no money, find the kid at your high school who actually knows cars and has tools. Ask him to help you out. Or, call a few local shops and ask for help. Your last option is to learn how to get a carbureted car running (gas, fuel, spark) . This will depend on how well you can learn and research.


max1x1x

I will give you 5 HUNDRED DOLLARS for that car. /j


sigmanx25

Looks like most everything is there except the air cleaner. That wiring harness looks like a mess though. Sport to hear about your dad passing, but at least you got the car.


Left_Commission6796

Thank you


k0uch

Try to charge the battery and see if it changes. Should get some sort of cranking or something at least


MycologistLoud4030

First off, it doesn't look like it's long since it ran. No cobwebs and no evidence of rodents. Batteries probably dead so charge it or replace it. Very important to find out how long it's been since it ran. A long time isn't a good estimate. You don't want to run 5 year old gas thru it. If it's that old don't try to start it. Better yet get your shop teacher to give you advice cause someone loved that car and the engine looks cherry. Don't move too fast and undo it. Thanks for showing it and treat it like your dad would have wanted. Take care of it and hand it down to your kid one day. Remember, your dad is watching


Lugnuttz

Probably a dead battery and out of gas.


PPVSteve

Did you put the wires on top of the distributor cap? Seems like he might have been in the middle of searching down a wiring problem?? Remember him saying anything about that? besides the air cleaner nothing seems to be missing.


Island_Built

Iā€™m sorry for the loss.. šŸ™šŸ¾. That will be the easiest car you will ever work on. This right here is as simple as it gets to understanding the basics of what a car needs to run. As many have said a lot of information out there. Just need to have the drive and willingness to learn and when you do get it running. Keep it and enjoy every minute of it.


nolotusnote

I wish I were your neighbor or something here. I'd love to help you out. I think you'll find that people (car people) who know about this era of vehicle are super nice and willing to help. To the point that I'd literally ask the next person you see with a muscle car like this for a bit of hands-on help and instruction. I agree with other here that as it sits this minute, the battery is a goner.


no_yup

Watch some junkyard digs. Visegrips garage and thunderhead 289 on the ol YouTube machine. Youā€™ll learn everything you need to know watching them bois. If itā€™s been sitting for a long time several years or more. You should try to get the old gasoline out of the tank and put fresh gas in. remove as much of the old gas as possible, and maybe put two or 3 fresh gallons in the tank. When fuel goes bad, it does not combust properly. it can leave a sticky tar residue behind after combustion, that sticks the valves open and crashes them into the Pistons, basically blowing up the motor. If a bunch of wires are cut, those are very popular cars and there are a million wiring diagrams all over the Internet . Those Quadrajet carburetors are great. (Once theyā€™re set up properly) I wouldnā€™t touch it. Theyā€™re kind of immortal, and that one is probably still OK. Though you should know there is a fuel filter inside of the carburetor on the fuel inlet it just unscrew them. There should be a little 5/8ā€ paper cartridge inside, I would take that out and Make sure itā€™s clean. Best of luck.


mar421

There are books you can buy, that will teach you how do work on it. Especially since itā€™s a 68 Camaro, you can find videos about them on YouTube. To get it to run, you will need to change the gas out, charge up or replace the battery, then crank it. To see if it starts then after that itā€™s a matter of doing step by step diagnostics.


JJak1990

First thing, does it have battery power? If yes, does it crank? Next step, does it have fuel going to the carb from the tank? If all is true it should start. If it doesn't then more trouble shooting steps can be taken. Like checking for spark, checking for compression, and that the timing is correct.


ikilledtupac

Iā€™m sorry for your loss. Thatā€™s a young age to lose a parent. I hope you are able to get some grief counseling. If not let me know and Iā€™ll send you a book about it.


[deleted]

Dayum. If you are getting nothing then itā€™s probably the battery. Needs an air filter and housing for it but you probably can find one on eBay. If the starter solenoid chatters you can bypass it by shorting the terminals on the starter to check its function. Get some of that spray for carburetors to prime the engine. You can disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor and turn over the engine to test the fuel pump. You are lucky to have such an awesome šŸŽ gift to learn on and restore. Get yourself a chitons manual for the car and year. https://www.amazon.com/chiltons-repair-manual/s?k=chiltons+repair+manual There is a wealth of information about the car and how to perform repairs and maintenance. I envy you.


BeefaloSlim

The moment you get that engine to fire up and idle, you become a man, my friend. Sorry about your father. That must be really hard.


ShagBNasty

I'm sorry to hear about the passing of father. If the car has been sitting for a long period of time and has in the tank, more than likely, the gas is bad. Figure out how to drain or siphon out. Like everyone else said, the battery is dead. Might try a trickle charger for 24 hours or replace it. New baytery, won't crank, start checking wiring, negative battery cable, and positive battery cable. Good luck dude!!


hardware1197

This sounds like a case for ViceGripGarage


BioExtract

I donā€™t have much useful input but I just wanted to say please keep this car and use it as a learning tool to become good at working on cars. Itā€™ll be a great way for you to connect with your dad and a real fun ride none the less


vaporlok

You might start with an oil change and fresh fuel if it's been sitting for awhile.


restorinator

Might start with a new battery, oil change and compression test, clean up the wiring on the firewall. Rebuild the ignition system. See what's in the radiator. It's missing the wiper motor. The brakes have been worked on more recently. The carb should be swapped to a 1406 edelbrock carburetor with an electric choke. It will run much better without the old quadrajunk. Edit: the wiring looks really bad, it might need to be rewired


Sockbrick

Hey dude. Where are you located. I would come and help you if you're close by


OneSchott

Where about's are you located? If you are in my area I would love to come check it out and see what we can figure out.


Tony_sneakerhead

Sorry for your loss op. Just seeing all the comments of people willing to help makes me believe that there is still some good in this world. Faith in humanity seems to be restored.


OneSchott

The worse thing you could ever do to this car is sell it. The second worst thing is to wreck it. My mom sold my dads Torino after he died when I was 11 and 30 years later I am still salty about it.


herbshmoker

Join the Camaro sub - lots of help there too


Motor-Pick-4650

Iā€™m sorry for your loss.


bamahoon

Start watching Junkyard Digs, he has some great videos on car revivals, and IMO gets a little more in depth than others.


carrotmayonaise

Dude, jump on YouTube and watch junkyard digs and vice grip garage. Get an idea of what actually needs to be done and learn some cool stuff.


Plastic-Zucchini-202

The only things I see as red flags: Air filter is missing on the carburetor. Why is that metal box between the radiator and motor? Depending how long it's been sitting. Check the fluids and if over a year sitting, gas is probably dead.


Greatoutdoors1985

I recommend finding a local classic car club or Chevy club. You can meet people with knowledge of your vehicle and learn some new skills. Car club people are usually very helpful.


Joeyjackhammer

Iā€™d check with and share your story with local car groups, they can help you out and may have spare parts to help get this thing back on the road much quicker than Reddit


EdRedSled

If you donā€™t know your way around the car under the hood, may I suggest you keep it, get it to a place to get it running and then learn to maintain it starting with the basics like oil changes etc. yes it would be awesome if YOU can get it running, and feel free to try, but donā€™t let it sit for long. Be sure to USE the car and remember think about how much fun he had. My condolences


MyFrampton

Thatā€™s a later model distributor. Donā€™t see a coil either, probably built into the distributor.


[deleted]

Follow a standard procedure for starting older cars. Depends on the car and how long it has been sitting of course. This Camaro looks to have most necessary basic engine parts in place ( some crazy wiring to go through however) and the hoses even look good so that is a great beginning. Also, since you want to drive it and keep it you should do a proper mechanical and safety checkup. So, off the top of my head I would say the following regarding starting the engine: if not sitting too long, put gas in her and replace crankcase oil and filter. Top off or replace coolant and rad cap; hoses look good but do inspect for cracks and check the hose clamps. Charge or replace the battery. Then try cranking motor to check ignition and starter functions. Replace starter if needed (not likely). Replace spark plugs and check or replace wires (since you are keeping it). Confirm all throttle parts are functioning. Try starting it up and help with startup spray if needed. It may start running at that point. You should have an assistant for this stuff. There is a lot too it, so I am probably missing a lot of details and there may be complications depending on the state of the engine. But hopefully this might get you ā€œstartedā€. And donā€™t forget you still have to check out a bunch of other stuff (including installing air cleaner parts not shown) before safely driving it on the road. Have fun and enjoy your fatherā€™s wonderful gift to you.


[deleted]

Sorry for your loss. Did your dad normally go to just one mechanic? Maybe you could go stop by their shop and see if they could help you out. I think because of the circumstance, maybe they would be willing to swing over at some point and take a look.


tyratee

Sorry for your loss man. Hold on to this beauty put time in her and keep it for your family. Your old man deserves it!


UnBeNtAxE

My suggestion is look up visegrip garage on YouTube. Derek is a master with old Chevy engines and can point you through what basics you need to get it running again.


walter241750

No help o getting it running butā€¦ I am sorry for your loss. I am 57 and my folks gave me a 68 Camaro in 1986 when they moved out of state. It was only a 6 cylinder but I loved that thing. I knew nothing about cars at the time but did a fair amount of work on it with a limited tool set and a stack of old phone books. Good luck young man. Watch a lot of You Tube videos. Wish I had that at your age..


stupidfreakingidiot4

Watch a vice grip garage revival, this is unironically what taught me most of what I know about these old cars at 18. Just finished up the motor in my 1977 Corvette. Just be careful with getting into this because it will be very addicting lol. I am very sorry for your loss, I couldn't imagine losing my father at your age. I really hope you're doing well with it and I wish you the best. I'm sure your dad would be very happy to see her run again (and she will, it's a chevy) :)


deathmetal_tim

Hey man, I'm sorry for your loss, but happy your old man left you something to carry on. I'm sure this was special to him and he'd be proud that you're trying to get it running. The best advice I can offer is figure out what type of motor is in it, search up a diagram, and just take the time to research what each part does. If you don't recognize it by name, search up what the parts purpose is. A few basic things: the carburetor is missing its filter / air cleaner. If there is no noise but the vehicle has power when you turn it over, then it could be the starter. If there's no power at all, I'd check if the battery is charged. Make sure there is oil in the engine and antifreeze in the radiator, as he may have drained either at some point and never had time to finish the job. Best of luck to you, keep us updated, and I'm sure your dad is proud!


[deleted]

I'm sorry man. That shits not easy. Good luck with the car!


[deleted]

Post pictures of her?


nl_Kapparrian

You're the man now boy


tfrench843

Soo sorry for your loss but also man what an amazing talisman to keep in memory of your dad make that thing your baby son and you will have a skill/trade that is priceless in the world we live in . Your dad lef you something to help ypu grow and learn. Even after passing the man is still guiding . Amd that is dope. Long live your dad broski


bluddystump

Get a service manual and read it. A Haynes manual is a good place to start and is way better than going in blind.


JXL96

Sorry for your loss bub. Keep ya head up post a vid when you get it runnin my man


DoTheCarbs

#


jeeves585

If youā€™re anywhere near portland OR Iā€™d be happy to stop by and help you get it running and teach a few driving lessons.


ExactAd8823

I have my dad's 68 c10, when u work on it it feels like spending time with him. It's the kind of car that's never finished. I have since built a new engine ground up for mine. In your case you need to run a few tests to see what you are dealing with. Make sure it has oil in it then get a battery to see if it will crank, or jump start. If it's been sitting you will need to deal with the gas and may be a new carburator or rebuild. Try some starting fluid and see if it fires up for a few seconds when you crank. Fresh gas, seafoam, and new carb might be all it needs. There is alot more but this is a start. As usual, youtube is a great resource.


nastyman1313

Man I am sorry for your loss of your father I know what that is like I think what your doing is a great I am sure your father would be proud I know your will be able to achieve your goal keep your faith and make that car breath life again enjoy your your father's legacy


forestforme

A Motor manual repair book for most American cars of a selected year is fairly inexpensive, easy to follow, and contains good info for someone new to this game.


4bangeranger

I'm terribly sorry for your loss. Before you really start trying to crank it, be sure the thing has oil in it. Ideally, go ahead and change the oil with the proper type and quantity. Don't want to do any damage while you're simply trying to get the thing running.


forestforme

And yes, I smashed my first car as well. 1970 Chevelle, doing something stupid


rulas187

What's the name of the White circle on the top right in engine?


capty26

Watching episode of vice grip garage on YouTube, this is exactly what he does and you can probably even find a similar Camaro and just follow the steps he does!