Last time I broke in a rebuilt motor ('67 big block) I found I had to shut the engine off a couple of times to add coolant to prevent overheating. How can I put enough coolant into the system initially to allow non-stop running during the break-in period? Last time I filled the radiator only, is there a better method of putting the coolant in prior to initial startup?
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Re: '66 ENGINE/CAM BREAK IN
Rob - fill the block and heads through the thermostat opening in the intake manifold before you istall it, then install, and then fill the radiator to the top. This should pretty much fill the coolant system and not require refills, at least during the break in period..Craig -
Re: '66 ENGINE/CAM BREAK IN
Thanks, I'll try that...Comment
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better yet,fill thru the rad with the thermostat
housing off and the thermostat out as this will push the air out the top of the engine block,less chance of a air pocket. then connect up the top hose and finish fillingComment
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Re: better yet,fill thru the rad with the thermost
Rob, it's all about evacuating the air from the highest points, be it hoses, top of the block, expansion tank, whatever you have.Comment
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Re: '66 ENGINE/CAM BREAK IN
I know there are lots of reported problems filling BBs, but I don't think you
have to shut down the engine. Fill the system slowly until it's near the top of the radiator neck and won't take any more. Start the engine. When the thermostat opens the radiator level will drop. Add coolant and keep it about an inch or two from the top. The air should eventually purge during the run-in.
Make sure you have the initial timing set properly and proper centrifugal and vacuum advance curves. If it doens't have enough TOTAL timing at 2000 revs - no load, which is about 40-50 degrees, it may want to overheat.
DukeComment
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