First post here! I just inherited a 97 Boxster. My uncle bought it new, drove it about 5 years, then parked it for about five years and there it sat. I have arranged to get it trucked here and expect to receive it later this week.

I know nothing at all about these cars specifically, but have basic automotive knowledge, mainly from maintaining a 3000GT VR-4 many years.

Before trying to start it for the first time, what do you guys recommend?

#1 I plan to charge the battery (or replace if it wont hold charge).

#2 I plan to change the oil. Any particular oil or filter recommended? And how much oil will I need?

#3 I'm thinking the fuel is probably not worth trying to start with. So I'm thinking I should drain the gas, is there a drainplug on the bottom of the tank under the car? If not, how do I get the gas out? Then after putting in new gas in the tank, is there a way to disconnect the fuel rail and hotwire the pump to pump out whatever gas is still in the lines? After that, should I try to turn over the engine w/o fuel hooked up? (I ask this cuz someone told me I should, but not sure why). Then should I hook it back up and run the pump a few seconds to build pressure back up? Any other advice on this? Any ideas what should I do with the old gas, I'm guessing I'm not supposed to pour it down the drain, and I live in a city so I can't really dump it on a bonfire or return it to mother earth...

Anything else before turning the key?

BTW, is the steering wheel supposed to lock with no key? The trucker picking it up said the steering wheel turned fine w/o a key which surprised me.

Thanks for your response!

There's lots to do before starting up the car. For sure the battery is dead, and even a recharge won't be good, so new battery. The fuel is definitely no good, probably turned into a jelly like, which in turn clogged the fuel lines. The fuel tank should be flushed and cleaned. Change oil and all fluids. Tires are most probably dry and cracked, should be replaced. Some of the seals/gaskets might be dried up as well, have those looked at. Change the thermostat. This free car can end up costing you a little bundle. I would suggest getting a well trained mechanic have a look at it and give you an estimate on what needs to be done. If the cost is too high, sell it and get yourself one in running condition. Good luck with it. Post some pics when you get it ..