Well I believe the day has finally come where I can actually start the engine in our 1966 MGB for the 1st time. Everything is new or replaced on the restoration so this will be the first time the engine is run. What advice can you offer? I know the first start up is the most critical so I want to take all precautions.
My plan is:
to pull the coil wire to build up oil pressure 1st
verify fuel in the carbs
check all fluids again
start the engine and keep it at about 2k rpm for 15 min
shut off and check for leaks again
I know there must be more to do, what should I add to the list?
Thanks
Engine break in tips
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gorms68
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Engine break in tips
Chris Gorman
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Jimmy
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Re: Engine break in tips
I would do an instant oil change afterwards.
And add antifreeze, since you probably didn't use any for the initial break-in.
And add antifreeze, since you probably didn't use any for the initial break-in.
In baseball, running into someone is apparently a "collision".
But doing the same thing in a car somehow makes it an "accident".
But doing the same thing in a car somehow makes it an "accident".
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Steve Simmons
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Re: Engine break in tips
You're doing pretty much what I would do. I don't think I'd bother to change the oil until it had more time on it though. Run a cheap plain oil for break-in. You don't want anything too slippery or the rings will never seat properly. After a bit of mileage (opinions range wildly on this) change to the oil of your choice.
I've also seen two distinct thoughts on how hard to run the engine, but I prefer to drive fairly normally, varying the RPMs as much as possible for the first few hundred miles, using no more than 3/4 throttle. Of course you'll need to finish a few other things before you have to worry about that...
I've also seen two distinct thoughts on how hard to run the engine, but I prefer to drive fairly normally, varying the RPMs as much as possible for the first few hundred miles, using no more than 3/4 throttle. Of course you'll need to finish a few other things before you have to worry about that...
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malcolmr18zoy
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Re: Engine break in tips
I would say use an oil that contains zddp even for break in, otherwise you could damage your camshaft and/or folloers.
Malcolm
Malcolm
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Steve Simmons
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Re: Engine break in tips
Oh yes, that goes without saying! A decent level of ZDDP is a must at all times!
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Larry Kluss
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Re: Engine break in tips
I agree. Absolutely a must on break-in and a good idea all the time.malcolmr18zoy wrote:I would say use an oil that contains zddp even for break in, otherwise you could damage your camshaft and/or folloers.
Malcolm
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gorms68
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Re: Engine break in tips
I ran for 20 min yesterday and then changed out the oil for Valvoline ZR1 20-50W, supposed to have high amounts of ZDDP. Next I need to dial in the timing and get her ready to drive.
Chris Gorman
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Jimmy
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'60 Sprite
'79 MG Midget (parts car)
'63 LBC
Plus, a Turbo S (with a damn roof) in the household.
And three Mercedes on 20" wheels. - Location: NM
Re: Engine break in tips
Congrats!
In baseball, running into someone is apparently a "collision".
But doing the same thing in a car somehow makes it an "accident".
But doing the same thing in a car somehow makes it an "accident".