Hello, I just restored my cars 350 and I was wondering what the best way is to break in the motor. which oil should i use and is there any paticular way i should drive it? also is there special lubricants that i should purchase before putting my valve covers back on? thanks- Jon

P.S i did do a quick search on this topic in the the thread finder but didnt find much

 

roller or flat tappet?

if flat tappet, I would recommend some break-in additive from crane. Just use regular 10w30 oil.

Fire it up, get it above 2000 rpms. Get the timing close. Keep it above 2000 rpms for 20 minutes. Every so often rev it to around 3 to keep it from staying at 2000 all the time.

Might have to have a water hose to spray on the radiator to keep it cool.

When it cools, change the oil. Use whatever you plan on running. Drive it like you would normally drive it. If possible, find a long downhill grade, run it up high in rpms, then let off the gas, let it slowly decelerate with the engine. This will help seat the rings.

With a roller cam, no cam break in is needed, just drive it and seat the rings.

Back in the 70s, my dad and his buddies would just throw one together, then drive it like they stole it. There are several ways to "properly" break in an engine. You will find many. Try a google search for more info

 

I agree with the above. I've heard of a few flat tappet cams being ruined without the additive thinking it was still included in the oil. I also broke mine in at 2000 rpm and then drove it with a load on it up and down the rpms to seat the rings.

 

There is a thread in the FAQ forum on this topic.