camshaft break in

[67rcks]

As I was going through the posts discussing break in procedures it remains unclear what could cause flat tapped cam damage on a rebuild engine, assuming it has been properly lubricated with assembly lube, new mineral oil, has enough oil pressure and keep it rev at 3000 rpm for some 20 minutes. Any advise? Is it OK to break in in freezing weather? Is it recommended to use an oil treatment such as STP or so?

 

[D.Hearne]

I tried breaking in one of mine in 30* weather. It didn't turn out good. I figured the oil was too cold and kept that one lifter from getting set into motion by the cam lobe. Either that or that one lifter was machined wrong. No way of telling which it was. I'd wait for warmer weather or put it in a heated shop and allow the oil to warm up before trying to start it.

 

[rbohm]

i agree with waiting for warmer weather, unless you have a heated garage with some way to duct exhaust gases outside. as for using STP, i wouldnt use that, but i would use an oil treatment that had a large amount of zddp in the mix or use a racing oil for break in. zddp is used as an anti wear addivitve and is very good for cam break in with flat tappet cams.

 

[RUSTYNUT]

Royal purple I see is now making a break in oil. Any additive should be for break in use. Several out there. Also prime your oiling system before you start it up. It can take many precious seconds for oil to start getting around the engine. If you can't wait put a space heater near the pan for an hour or two to warm up. Or keep the oil in the house and warm in hot water, then put in car, pre- oil just before you start the car. Just don't get the heater to close to anything flamable.