Fixing up a ‘96 Chevy 1500

Truck hasn’t been run in 4 years, motor is an original 350 about 160k on it. It ran when we put it up a few years ago, but wouldn’t pass inspection because it threw a code for cylinder 7 misfire and random cylinder misfire. Mobile mechanic back then said something along the lines of “cylinder 7 is shot and needs rebuilt” quoted like $1200 for a fix. I know a little more about cars now and that just doesn’t sound right, my gut says to start with plugs and coils and go from there because there isn’t a whole lot else it could be. I’m thinking the original motor probably has quite a bit of life left, but I’m not really sure what else a random misfire code could be triggered by other than plugs, coils, or maybe an injector, would really like to avoid having to drop a crate motor in as that would delay the project for a while. The truck ran a little rough, but would still reach highway speeds up to 80 mph and would tow. Any ideas as to other possibilities beyond plugs and coils I could be looking at?

Pull the bed. Pull the fuel pump. Drain and clean the tank. Change the pump and fuel filter.

My 99 GMC sat for seven years after I bought my Superduty. It is coming back strong. Mine is a 5.3 that did that exact same thing and had loss of power towing my tractor. Fuel pump fixed it. I had to replace it again after sitting so long.

I have an 04' F150 4.6L that thru a #8 cyl. Misfire Code as well. My engine has those Coil Over Plugs and that's what it was...the coil. Changed all coils and plugs. Went to O'Rileys and got an in-tank fuel pump too. Actually had to get 2 as the first one didn't work!! To save some major money, I got the Coils off Ebay and no problems with what I bought. I did order the in-tank fuel pump from Ebay also...had to send it back as it was the wrong one. The truck has another fuel filter on the frame under the drivers seat...that got changed too. After all this... the engine has more spunk. Good luck with your trk.

Thanks folks. Probably gonna go aftermarket on all the exterior/brake hardware as well as belts, hoses, etc. plan on doing a full fluid flush, and I’m just gonna bits the bullet and buy all new brake hardware, calipers, rotors, pads. Might go ahead and swap out the O2 sensors while I’m at it. Found some really good packaged deals on amazon. I think the 350 only has two coils, I think I’ll just go in with the stock AC delco stuff unless someone has other recommendations? I like using duralast parts for the lifetime warranty on my f-150 but I don’t think I need to spend as much here simply because I don’t think I’ll drive it as much.

I'd get rid of the misfire before I spend another penny.

yep do agree

Yesterday, Saturday, 15 June, I started and drove my 94 chevy that was sitting in my garage for five years. At first, it hesitated to crank, but after a few attempts, it turned over without missing. I am certain this was due to the fuel, After changing the oil, I drove it and topped it off with high grade fuel. Other than the brakes, I recommend to stick with AC Delco. Specifically, for your electronic components. Good luck with your truck, those 350s are good engines.

94 step side, 305, w/274,480 miles.