So, Im planning to fire up my spider that has been sitting idle for 7+ years, probably more. Replacing hoses, fluids, etc is a given but Ive got an issue with the Timing belt. It was last replaced in 1993, but it only has about 5k driven miles on it because it was a secondary weekend vehicle prior to being parked permanentely. I will replace the timing belt but my problem is that If I replace it before starting it up and ive gotten it out of timing, the car may not start because of a timing problem. Should I just go ahead and try to start it with the old belt to see if it runs first before changing the belt or go ahead and change the belt prior to starting and hope that ive correctly set the timing?

Belt will be fine to start car, unless it has been mouse attacked or subject to oils or antifreeze.. But if you replace it, not sure why you are concerned about getting it on right. Line up marks, is pretty straightforward.
Keith

Just concerned. We have changed the belt twice in it's life. First time it slipped out of time and we had to take it to a local shop for help. Second time we got it right the first time. I just didnt want it to be the reason the car won't start and us troubleshooting the wrong problem. On the other hand the belt is 17 years old. I'm just looking for some reasurrance that it should be ok for a fire up then change it after the car is running.