d2noob

I'm trying to help a buddy out. He found this car that's been sitting for at least 2 years that's he is intended in. What is the safest way to start the engine without causing harm? I know these engines have some special kind of aluminum its made from and want to avoid doing damage to the cylinder walls. Remove the spark plugs and pour in some motor oil into each cylinder and crank the engine over by hand?

jfrahm

The block surfaces are tough but it's reasonable to whip the plugs out and add some oil or ATF or what have you and crank it a bit. That will circulate oil to the top end as well.

d2noob

How much oil to add into a cylinder?

Pushbutton_auto

Sweet fanny adams ... a couple of drops.

but you should pull all the spark plugs and check them at same time.

aTOMic

FWIW my D3 (2004) A8L (4.2L BFM) started fine after sitting 2+ years. If you do elect to add oil to the cylinders, I agree with @Pushbutton_auto a couple drops, and be ready for the smokescreen!
I'd plan to install a new fuel filter after a couple drives as well.
HTH,
Tom

Number48

I'm sure the initial start has already happened my now, but I wouldn't even bother with oil down the cylinders to start it. What I would suggest is changing the oil, remove the fuel injection fuse so it won't fire, and crank the engine for several seconds to let the oil pump prime the engine with fresh oil. This will also get oil to the bearings and pump up the cam tensioners. Once you are satisfied, plug in the fuse and give it a shot. I would also recommend this for when you replace the cam tensioners to get them pumped up before first fire.