sooo im taking her out to berryessa this sat..fresh rebuilt 454 did a break in at home on the hose ..i kno i kno hose...but regardless im goen for sure...any tips for how to go easy on motor or NOT would be greatly appreciated from all you seasoned folks on here..🍺
Been there done that as far as breaking in a motor, done it at the track. Here's what I would do. comments or corrections not taken personally! ha!
I'd go out early - I am assuming timing is all set where you want it and the oil has been changed since your initial start up, if not plan on changing it. Good rings will break in fairly quickly on a normally aspirated motor with dino oil.
1) run the motor at 2000-3000 under load for 10-15 min. Cruze!! No full throttle, check all gauges constantly and turn off at any sign of issues - Come in and make sure no leaks (oil or water) ( Might even pull the valve covers to take a quick look - my preference depending on valve train)
2) Go back out and run again at various rpms' but still no full throttle idle-4k for another 10-15 mins (adjust your water flow for the temp you are looking for)- bring back in and inspect again. Idea being get the motor use to coming off idle to various rpms.
3) Now you are ready for some good passes at various RPM's and full throttle stabs. Do that for 15-20 mins and come in and inspect.
that should do if for your initial break in, I would keep it conservative the first weekend out but put time on the motor-
If you do not change the oil at least change the filter, you will be surprised how much lint from rags and towels end up in motors sometimes, not to mention silicone sealant.
Be prepared for some adjustments, timing , valve adjustment, carb etc.
Spun a rod bearing in a new 4 banger race motor cause of silicone while on a chassis dyno.
Good luck and have fun!
JW
