when car is not started in over 2 weeks i use a little starting fluid.saves from running battery down. after first stard does ok till it sits up again .kindly know gas drains out.some one told me starding fluid washing oil off and would hurt motor.( does starding fluid hurt any thing.) thanks smitty

Starting fluid contains diethyl ether. It is extremely flammable and can cause internal engine damage (like broken pistons) if too much is used. If a long delay it is also possible to accumulate unburned fuel and starting fluid in the oil pan and/or under the valve covers. I saw the aftermath of such an incident many years ago when the engine finally started it blew the oil pan and valve covers clean off the block and heads. Actually was not clean as oil was everywhere and the mechanic could not hear for several minutes.

I don't use starting fluid but instead an aerosol carburetor cleaner. It works well and does not have as much potential for damage.

Almost every time I used starting fluid it fouled the plugs! I don't use that stuff any longer.

Aerosol carb cleaner, but don't get it on paint.

I use WD-40 for starting fluid. Any that would not burn off will act as a lubricant. I learned this trick many years ago. I have used it on Lawn mowers and Cars with not problems.

I too have heard of a case like Chipper mentioned. Turned out the guy used 4 cans of starter fluid before he had the car towed to a mechanic. He did not mention to the mechanic what his attemts to start the car involved. WOW, did the mechanic get a surprise. Oil plan blew off and sent oil everywhere.

i have only used starting fluid 2 times then very little.have no trouble with car unless i let it set about 2 or 3 weeks.just through 1 would help my battery. thanks for the reply.will just try to keep battery build up

Ditto on the paint removing capability of carb cleaner unless you use a catalyst to cross link and cure it.

I just bought a 1987 Chevy pickuop with a V6 in it that had not been started for 2 years and sitting outside all that time.
I put a new battery in it and after a few cranks, on a 17 degree day, it started right up!!!
I never use ether...