I finally got my new engine in this weekend. (thanks to the help of a friend with a hoist.) It's been sitting in my garage for about 4 months. Is there anything special I should do when I first start it up? It's not brand new, about 35K on the clock. Just not sure since it's been sitting.

Also, where do I start? As you can see from the pic, I have some work ahead of me. Today I put on the power steering pump and bracket, and a new water pump. I was thinking the accessories first, then wire up the sensors. Then plenum and runners. How does that sound?

 

If the oil pan has never been off, here's what I'd do:

You need to decide on the order you do accessories, hoses, intake etc... any lazy guy like me will figure out the easiest way most of the time!!

Connect all the electrical, hoses, etc., leave spark plugs out. Spray a little WD-40 in all the cylinders.

Fill it up with water. Don't waste anti-freeze in case you have a leak. Fill it with cheap 10W40 dino oil. You'll change it after the first 500 miles anyway.

If oil pumps been changed, use a priming tool and a drill to circulate oil. Wouldn't hurt either way.

Crank it over for maybe 30 seconds, and see if you read ANY oil pressure. If you do, install plugs and start it!

EDIT: If you didn't pull out the old engine yourself so you know where everything goes, the difficulty level dramatically increases!

 

Agreed wholeheartedly. But, there are some very knowledgeable people on here, so if you don't know where a sensor goes, or what wires hook up to it, this is the right place.
Sorry, just noticed you're a senior member, so you know that already.

 

Thanks for the tips. I did pull the engine myself (with help) so I kinda know where stuff goes. I started with the wiring today. Luckily I have the factory manual to refer to. I'm sure there will be a few loose wires along the way though.

 

Just thought I'd post an update. I've made some progress slowly cause of work, etc. Only things left are the driveshaft, y-pipe, ign wires, and setting timing. Plus any other misc stuff I forgot.

Can't wait to drive this car again!

 

u are swapping from what to what?

 

Looks like all is going well on your swap! I'm just guessing, but I assume you're going from a TPI 305 to a TPI 350 - correct?

Anyways, BEFORE you go to crank it over, step back and really MAKE SURE you have everything routed properly, and basically double-check all the work you've put into it. I've adverted a few major disasters doing this.

Lookin good though!