New Engine Questions and Storage

Rounder · Nov 7, 2018

I just bought a new rebuilt 302 for my 89 and have a few questions.
1. I asked the builder what oil I should use to break it in and they recommended I use some 15-40 Diesel oil like Rotella T4 Triple Protection 15W-40 Diesel does this sound ok?
2. I wont be installing it until spring and it will be sitting in my unheated shed over the winter in temps down to minus 20 F. It does not have spark plugs in it now or any oil in it yet. Should I add oil to it now or wait until its in the car in the spring? I assume its got assembly lube on most of the parts but am not sure. If I add oil now will it make much difference as it will just be sitting in the pan?
3. Should I put the plugs in it now or wait till spring as the temps go up and down it will condensate? I sprayed some fogging oil in the plug holes and on the heads...but with the moisture would it be better to leave the plugs out or in?
Thanks

96pushrod · Nov 8, 2018

I’d pretty much use whichever conventional oil is on sale. It’ll only be ran for a little bit. Rotella is fine if that’s what the builder recommends.

Since it rebuilt and not ran, I’d leave the plugs out and spray it down as you’ve already done. The I’d buy an engine bag, toss some dehumidifier packets inside and call it good. You can get the bag and some packets for $15 total. Should be fine for the winter.

Hoytster · Nov 8, 2018

If you're really frugal, most hardware stores sell clear landscape bags that work great for covering engines and parts for storage. I save the desiccant packs from products I buy to throw in before storage.

96pushrod · Nov 8, 2018

Hoytster said:
If you're really frugal, most hardware stores sell clear landscape bags that work great for covering engines and parts for storage. I save the desiccant packs from products I buy to throw in before storage.

That’s a good idea, never thought of the landscape bags.

Get some of these too
Amazon product ASIN B00DYLUWVOView: https://www.amazon.com/Dry-Premium-Packets-Desiccant-Dehumidifiers/dp/B00DYLUWVO/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1541686229&sr=8-5&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=silica+gel+packets&dpPl=1&dpID=51yNbn%2BQ%2BPL&ref=plSrch

Rounder · Nov 8, 2018

96pushrod said:
I’d pretty much use whichever conventional oil is on sale. It’ll only be ran for a little bit. Rotella is fine if that’s what the builder recommends.

Since it rebuilt and not ran, I’d leave the plugs out and spray it down as you’ve already done. The I’d buy an engine bag, toss some dehumidifier packets inside and call it good. You can get the bag and some packets for $15 total. Should be fine for the winter.

Thanks for the replies.
The builder didn't specify the brand but suggested I buy 15-40 Diesel oil. Ill probably get Mobil Delvac as its on sale now.
1. How long do you think I should run this Diesel oil to start out? I usually use full synth.
2. Isnt 10-30 recommended for this motor generally?

96pushrod · Nov 8, 2018

Rounder said:
Thanks for the replies.
The builder didn't specify the brand but suggested I buy 15-40 Diesel oil. Ill probably get Mobil Delvac as its on sale now.
1. How long do you think I should run this Diesel oil to start out? I usually use full synth.
2. Isnt 10-30 recommended for this motor generally?

I’d run it for about 100 miles or so then change it out. I like to get a couple heat cycles on everything before driving it much. Cut open the filter and make sure there’s no metal chunks in it. After that, assuming it’s a roller cam, you’re pretty much good to start hammering on it. I don’t think I even put 30 miles on my last one before putting the pedal thru the firewall. Any problem with the engine will make itself known quickly.

I run the 5w-30 or 10w-30 motorcraft synblend, it’s hard to beat for the price. Get it at Walmart.

KZGUNS · Nov 8, 2018

If you wanted to run oil through it you can with a drill and 1/4 or is it 5/16? socket and extention. put it through the distributor hole and engage the oil pump. you'll see it in the rockers and notice the drill labor a bit. I always do this on new rebuilds before i fire it up the first time. If you do make sure your extension and socket are taped together so they don't fall off.

96pushrod · Nov 8, 2018

KZGUNS said:
If you wanted to run oil through it you can with a drill and 1/4 or is it 5/16? socket and extention. put it through the distributor hole and engage the oil pump. you'll see it in the rockers and notice the drill labor a bit. I always do this on new rebuilds before i fire it up the first time. If you do make sure your extension and socket are taped together so they don't fall off.

Make sure the drill is gong in reverse. It’s a 1/4 socket.

The oil prime tool is $15 on Amazon, it’s a good cheap investment so the socket doesn’t fall off.

KZGUNS · Nov 8, 2018

96pushrod said:
Make sure the drill is gong in reverse. It’s a 1/4 socket.

The oil prime tool is $15 on Amazon, it’s a good cheap investment so the socket doesn’t fall off.

I still have an extension with the socket welded on. From the 90s before all this internet stuff. Lol

New Engine Questions and Storage

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