Recommended approach to restarting engine after 3 months with Battery

[amcleod1]

(edited 17/May/2012 - changed from question to the procedure I followed)

Hi Guys,

In case you're ever in the same situation, below is the procedure I used for re-starting my 996 3.4L TIP following about 3 months elapsed of dashboard work where all of the following items were removed and now re-installed with the battery disconnected for the whole 3mths.

• Radio
  
• A/C Control
  
• Passenger Airbag
  
• Drivers Airbag
  
• Steering Wheel / Clock Spring
  
• Combination Switch
  
• Instrument Pod
  

I broke the re-start into the following 3 steps which I've detailed below:

1. Checks prior to starting engine
   
2. Checks at engine start
   
3. Checks post engine start
   

You will need a Durametric code reader or similar for this procedure.

1. Checks prior to engine start

Pre-condition - everything back together and battery fully charged and connected.

Key at Accessory Position:

• Radio - enter the security code / test all functions
  

Key at "ON" Position

• Perform DME adaption per workshop manual (WSM) procedure
  
• Passenger Airbag - read error codes/clear codes
  
• Drivers Airbag - read error codes/clear codes
  
• Steering Wheel - check horn operation
  
• Combination Switch - test turn signals, wipers
  
• Instrument Pod - test lamps and dial functions with Durametric
  
• Re-teach Power Window Stop Positions
  
• Re-teach Sunroof Stop Positions
  
• Set clock
  
• Read out all error codes from all controls units and clear codes
  
• Check for instrument warning lamps remaining on that shouldn't be
  

2. Checks at Engine Start

Start Car:

• Remove the fuel pump fuse and crank the engine - to pre-circulate oil (I did 2 x 10 sec bursts with 20seconds in-between)
  
• Reinstall fuel pump fuse
  
• Start engine
  
• Check for instrument warning lamps remaining on that shouldn't be (I had only the spoiler and seat belt lamps remain on which is fine)
  
• Allow to idle for 5-10mins to warm engine and complete DME adaptation
  

3. Checks post Engine Start (Driving)

• Check spoiler light goes out once moving.
  
• Perform tiptronic adaptation per WSM procedure
  
• Steering Wheel / Clock Spring - check horn, and tip switch operation
  
• A/C Control - test all functions - cool and hot
  
• Combination Switch - test OBC and Cruise
  
• Check for any post driving error codes
  

Luckily for me there were no problems and I'm now enjoying the driving once again.

Thanks

Edited May 16, 2012 by amcleod1

[logray]

This all looks good and nice job documenting your procedure, but a few things for future reference, in my opinion.

• Perform DME adaption per workshop manual (WSM) procedure
  Since the battery was disconnected for such a long duration, the previous maps were unlearned so there shoud be no need to perform adaption again.
  

• Remove the fuel pump fuse and crank the engine - to pre-circulate oil (I did 2 x 10 sec bursts with 20seconds in-between)
  If you are going to do this I recommend pulling the plugs first. With the plugs in the bearings will be loaded, and if you are doing this to build pressure and lubrication, then the compression will be working against what you are trying to accomplish with this procedure.
  
• Allow to idle for 5-10mins to warm engine and complete DME adaptation
  I would not let the car idle for more than 5 minutes on a cold start. Get the car up to operating temp as quickly as possible by driving off after just a few minutes. Drive without going above 4000 rpm, preferrably in the 2500-3500 rpm range until the engine reaches the first mark below the "180". Then drive normally.