Recommended Break-In Procedure for Rebuilt Engines

• Before starting your rebuilt engine for the first time, be sure it is pressure lubricated. This means priming the oil pump with oil shaft rod or turn engine over with starter without spark plugs.
• NEVER add cold water to the cooling system while the engine is running. The engine should be allowed to run at normal operating temperature. If not, shut down and wait 30 minutes, then restart.
• Start the engine and run at a fast idle, approximately 2000 to 2100 RPM for initial break-in of the cam (no exceptions), and check oil pressure while the engine is running. Run the engine for 30 minutes even though the coolant may rise to operating temperature in a few minutes. If the coolant should 'boil over,' stop engine and allow to cool down for 30 minutes, then start again and add water, and then proceed as above.
• Adjust carburetor and ignition timing after initial break-in.
• Stop the engine and re-torque heads and manifold to engine manufacturer's specifications in proper sequence. Re-adjust rocker arms and tappets if necessary. NOTE: look for any leaks, upper and lower.
• Start engine again and make a test run on the road at 30 mph in 'drive' range or select proper gears for standard transmission. Periodically open throttle and accelerate to 50 mph and decelerate rapidly. Repeat this procedure at least five (5) times. For higher horsepower and muscle car engines, accelerate in intermediate gears as above.
• NOTE: Applying light loads to the engine for short periods of time causes increased ring pressure against the cylinder walls and helps to seat the rings. This is especially important because you are 'breaking-in' the engine with heavy duty conventional oil with zinc in it, such as Joe Gibbs Drivin oil, or CompCam Break-In oil.
• The rapid deceleration increases vacuum and gives extra lubrication to the pistons and ring assemblies, and also helps lubricate the whole engine.
• ENGINE OR VEHICLE SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PASSENGER CARS, MUSCLE CARS, ETC: Drive normally but not at continuous speeds for the first 500 miles. Occasional fluctuation of speed followed by deceleration during this first period of break-in is beneficial.
• Then make sure to change oil and filter on or before the first 500 miles. Note: NO SYNTHETIC OILS! Must use conventional break-in oil. See your Warranty Pack for more information which states nothing under 10-40, 15-50, or 20-50 should be used for break-in. On all stock and performance engines, zinc must be changed at all oil changes.
• ENGINE OR VEHICLE SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOUR ENGINE:
  You must follow your Warranty Pack.
• Remember: After 500 miles of service, to re-torque cylinder heads and manifolds to proper specifications if needed. Re-adjust rocker arms and tappets if needed. We suggest that this be done again at 4,000 miles if needed. We know this means extra work, but it assures long and satisfactory engine performance.
• If you chose Fast Track Start Up and Break-in, then please note that we did the initial cam break-in and adjustments for you.

PhoenixEngine.com
21632 N 7th. Ave. Phoenix Az. 85027
SW corner of 7th Ave & Deer Valley Rd, right across from Deer Valley Airport entrance.
telephone: 602 866-8044       email: [email protected]

Return to home page

Disclaimer:
Please note these are general recommendations. You must follow the Warranty Pack that you were given to sign and return within 10 days of receiving your engine.
Please note that any information on this website, including pricing, is deemed accurate but is not guaranteed. Any pricing information is presented as a guideline only; you must call or email us for a customized estimate. Thank you.

updt 05/29/18