[chevy350_Camd]

I put my first cam in probably a month ago, and I have started the motor but was ignorant of a break in, its only been started like 10 times and ran for like a couple of minutes each time, Can i still run a break in procedure and the cam be in good condition ?. I have checked my oil and have yet to find metal shavings. The cam is a flat tappet, with 282/292 advertises duration. it seems to be running real well but any suggestions on a correct break in would be very helpful. The motor has been sitting for most of the time.

Thanks

[carsavvycook]

No it's not too late. When you get ready to start it the next time this is what I would do. Adjust the idle speed to 3000 rpm and keep it there until the thermostat opens, or the engine is at operating temperature. This is usually between 3-5 minutes. Lower the idle speed to idle and let it idle for the remainder of a total 30 minutes. Turn it off and let it cool down, check all fluid levels. You should be good to go. NOTE: during that idle time, make all of your timing, carb adjustments.

[chevy350_Camd]

I have heard of 2000 rpms for that but i guess 3000 wont hurt it. What would be the difference if u set one for 2000rpms and one for 3000rpms but i will follow your advise thanks

[carsavvycook]

If you set it at 2000 it wil take it longer to reach temperature. Most likely 10 minutes or more. I ussualy leave performance motors at 3000 for 30 minutes when I first fire one off. Right after I have done that, race crews have taken their cars straight to the track for hot laping, then qualifing, and raced, all within the first 6-8 hours of the first engfine start-up.

Ain't had one blow up yet!

[chevy350_Camd]

Alright ill try that tommorow but i go to switch my flywheel first

[sonicweb]

Another suggestion that comes from my engine builder is to use ROTELLA T 10W-30 during the breakin. Or an additive. Oil companies are lowering the zinc level and can cause excessive wear. He told me that he's seen more cam damage recently than ever due to this. (Just had my 454BBC rebuilt by him) and said that even Crane Cams has a break in procedure or an additive. Here is a link to the exact sheet that came in with my cam. http://www.cranecams.com/pdf/548e.pdf

And here is a link to similar discussion right here on Hotrodders:
continue with diesel engine oil?

[dalesy]

Hope it works out ok for you with the above procedure. I've seen guys wipe the lobes off a cam in an hour or so by not using assembly lube. Hopefully, you got off lucky.