So it looks like this weekend is going to be the time to crank the new engine. I have read EVERYTHING I could find on Cam Break In, but I wanted to get some input from those in the know. Ideas, suggestions, advice, anything will be appreciated. From what I have read, RPMs around 2000 for 20 minutes, varying it throughout that time. So Im thinking, 1500 for a few minutes, 2400, 1800, 2500, etc. Does this sound right?

 

I would probably just drive it normally for 500 miles or so

 

Once you know that everything is working(oil pump pressure, cooling system, etc..) I use the 20 min at 2000 RPM to help mate the lifter feet to the cam lobes with the proper amount of lube. The main reason for the HIGH RPM is for adequate lubrication during this HIGH wear period.

 

make sure u change the oil and filter in between

http://www.jpmagazine.com/techarticl...ker/index.html

if you scroll down a little it will tell you every thing on break-in procedures

 

Use a drill and an old screwdriver to prime your oil pump.

If it doesn't start immediately don't keep cranking it. You'll wipe all the oil from the rotating assembly.

1800-2000RPM for a solid 15 minutes.

Delo400 in the crankcase and change it immediately after break-in.

 

also make sure you use conventional oil, non synthetic, due to the lubrication of new parts. the synthetic is to "slippery" and will not wear in the cam properly. after my cam sway (trans am) then i changed the oil after 100 miles. it was dirty as hell and was brand new. if you have some ZDDP (zinc and phospherous) additive, i would suggest throwing it in there, the zinc will protect the motor as it breaks in. or you could use VR-1 racing oil, the non street legal stuff. since you wont be getting a smog while you change your cam, you will be fine

 

Chevron Delo400 contains approx. 1200PPM of Zinc (ZDDP).

 

X2 what frankz says as well as TA7935. Frankz, where can I get the delo400? I have always just used a zinc additive

 

I always bought it at Advance Auto.

 

My machine shop guy provided me with some Joe Gibbs Break In Oil.....supposed to have lots of Zinc and Phosphorous in it. Anyone have any experience with Joe Gibbs Break In Oil?

 

Good stuff....but pricey.

 

I'm not a fan of oil additives, except now with the guberment taking away ZDDP from our conventional oils. Another source of zinc is STP. Half a pint per oil change will give the necessary level to ensure our lobes have bumps.

So what cam/spec are you using?

 

Stock cam.....only upgrades I did was hypereutectic pistons and changed over to the 4 hole fuel injectors. Its starting to look like an engine again finally!

 

Joe Gibbs break in oil is highly recommended. I've seen it run for break in on 6-800 HP motors with no failures. Well not until N2O got applied in copious amounts.