Cam break in period?

[strat1960s]

Ok, if I get around to firing up my car today, what RPM and for how long should I run my motor to break in the cam? I looked through the Isky information packet and couldn't find anything on break in procedures. I also don't recall my machinist saying anything about cam break in. I was figuring about 1500 RPM for about 30 minutes. Does that sound about right? After that, I will try to work on timing and tuning today. Wish me luck.

Ted

 

[Anonymous]

2000 rpms, minimum 20 minutes...

You have to watch it during the break in.

At first it will be clattery while the lifters seat. Then it will smooth out and things should start to sound better.

I ran water from a hose through the radiator to supply cool water because there will be a lot of heat from the new parts. Also as the cam and engine breaks in the rpms will climb, so you will have to back the engine down slightly as it goes through the cycle...

I ran mine for 30 minutes and it was fine... now it needs tuning and such.

 

[CobraSix]

Comp Cams said 20 minutes at 2000 RPM, then change the oil and filter. Be sure to use regular conventional oil for the break in.

Slade

 

[rbohm]

8) very important, DO NOT let the engine idle during the first 20min. if you have a problem shut the engine down and fix the problem. then restart and go back immediately to 2000 rpm minimum.

 

[FastRonald]

8) I have used the 2,000 / 2,500 r.p.m. range and a half hour minimum all these decades with no problems.

 

[strat1960s]

I was planning to do this today, but I think I may have a kidney infection or something along that lines. Maybe next week.
Could I use the idle adjusting screw to set it at 2000 RPM? That way, instead of sitting inside the car while all heck breaks loose, I could be close to the engine and just pull the battery cable or something. The only other alternative would be to let my 10 yr old hold the pedal down and watch the RPMs. Would make for a great bonding experience, but then again, he might get a little carried away thinking this is the video game Grand Theft Auto or something. LOL I could totally see him going nuts in there.

Let me know if you think I can maintain the RPMs with the idle screw.

thanks guys,
Ted

 

[Anonymous]

That is what I did, we fired the car up and I had already adjusted it a little... just held the throttle in place and adjusted the screw to keep it there, that way I could watch the engine, tach, and gauges around the engine compartment.

then when the breakin is done you can drop it down, change the oil, and tune it from there....

 

[FastRonald]

8) The idle screw is perfect! Works everytime!