85' Vette Post-Rebuild First Start-Up
Forum: C4 Engines, Driveline and Handling
3 Messages
Page 1 of 1
Sponsored Content
So, I am done rebuilding the engine in my 85'. Upper half of the motor (heads, gaskets, lifters, cam) in addition to a new clutch. What are the necessary steps for the first start? This is my first rebuild so I just need some guidance.
Thanks!
Be the first to like this post
Sign In to Like this post
Sign In to Like this post
SPONSOR AD:: (Our Sponsors help support Vette Registry)
Lifetime Member
Moderator
Send PMModerator
Duncanville, TX - USA
Joined: 11/8/2003
Posts: 22714
Vette(s): #1-1974 L-48 4spd Cp Med Red Metallic/Black deluxe int w/AC/tilt/tele./p/w-p/b/
Am-Fm/map light National/Regional/Chapter NCRS "Top Flight"
#2-1985 Bright Red/Carmine Cp.L-98/auto
Member: NCRS, NCRS Texas, Corvette Legends of Texas
If you installed a regular, flat tappet cam, you'll want to start it and keep the idle speed above 2000 rpm for at least 30 minutes to break the cam/lifters in. In order to do that, you have to do all you can to make sure the engine will run period. Be certain the plug wires are on correctly, and all of the electrical stuff is connected properly. Be sure there is fuel, and check fuel pressure before cranking. Have your coolant ready to top off the radiator as it warms up. Have someone to help look for leaks.
Ain't nothing worse than firing off a fresh engine and having issues that keep it from running at fast idle for the cam break-in. If the cam is not broken in properly, it WILL wear the cam lobes and lifters very quickly.....then you'll be doing all of this crap again....
If you installed a roller cam, then just fire that puppy off and check for leaks.
Ain't nothing worse than firing off a fresh engine and having issues that keep it from running at fast idle for the cam break-in. If the cam is not broken in properly, it WILL wear the cam lobes and lifters very quickly.....then you'll be doing all of this crap again....

If you installed a roller cam, then just fire that puppy off and check for leaks.

Joel Adams
C3VR Lifetime Member #56
My Link
(click for Texas-sized view!) NCRS
"Money can't buy happiness -- but somehow it's more comforting to cry in a CORVETTE than in a Kia"
Be the first to like this post
Sign In to Like this post
Sign In to Like this post
Treat it like a complete rebuild. Use break-in oil. Do not use standard oil or synthetic.
If it isn't broke, I haven't fixed it yet....

Be the first to like this post
Sign In to Like this post
Sign In to Like this post
in Forum: C4 Engines, Driveline and Handling
Sponsored Content