I just started breaking in my new motor. It has a flt tappet cam. I know i have to run it at 2000rpm for 20 min. I have about 6 min done already. I have to keep shuting the motor down because the headers turn cherry red and i didnt know why. Could anyone help me out? Thanks a lot.

 

Probably retarded ignition timing.

 

while you've got it set to run at 2000RPM, try setting your timing to 24* or so.

 

Either your timing is off or your jetting is off. As long as you don't let it idle, having to break in the cam in a few shorter sessions isn't really that big a problem.

Whats your water temp when the exhaust is that hot? It probably doesnt matter that much, but red headers don't always mean the motor is actually to warm.

 

I think i will try that. When i time it to 24* at 2000rpm should i have the vac advance blocked or flowing? Also when you time for total timing do you have to do the same? Thanks

 

vac advance disconnected, both at 2000RPM, and for your WOT timing.

 

I think it could be my jets. I have 74 primary and 75 secondary. How many jet sizes should i go up?

 

I tried setting the timing at 24* 2000rpm the header still turned red. Its only #3 a lil bit but #5 and #7 get real red.

 

Pull the spark plugs and check them. If they are really fouled out then they won't be burning the A/F mixture and you are dumping raw unburned fuel into the exhaust and doing some damage to the exhaust valve.

Also DOUBLE CHECK YOUR FIRING ORDER!!! I had a similar problem when I broke my engine in, I mixed the 5 and 7 plugs because they are next to each other.

But good luck either way!!

 

The 5 and 7 and ok i always double check those. the plugs are fine. i guess there isnt anything you can really do about the red header. im gonna bring the engine to 1500rpm and see how it works.

 

I added timing to the ignition and the red glowing went away. I finished the 20 min break. I know I have to seat the pistons while driving it. Arent you supposed to acellerate up to 5000 in 2nd gear and then back off and let it lug down? Also when checking plugs how long will it take before i could get a good reading?