How to get my dad's old pickup running?

[mikebte]

Your right on. Remove the plug wires, remove the plugs. Add in your lubrication of choice. Couple small squirts. Leave the plugs out of the engine while you use the fan blade to turn the engine over.

Some times the fan will spin and the engine will not, adding a little tension to the belt should allow the engine to turn with the fan. You can also turn the engine over by hooking a tool to the crank shaft if needed.

You may notice a little resistance, this could be due to a valve in the down position. If you remove the valve cover, you will be able to see what valve spring has not returned. maybe a few taps with a hammer can free it up.

Also, make sure it is in neutral. Makes the engine easier to turn over. "ask me how I know?"