First start up question

[Sonny]

My new 440 is about ready for break in. I haven’t had time to get the driveshaft shortened yet. So can I stick the new yoke in the trans, tie it in with rope to the tie rods, and do the break in without the shaft? Obviously not putting it in gear. Dumb or no?

 

[69L48Z27]

Just plug the hole with the yoke. Shouldn't be any pressure.

 

[66Satellite47]

If you have a yoke, there should not be anything pushing it out.So that should not be a problem, if don't go too long. Pre prime the engine oil first.

 

[dvw]

I like to give them a lot of timing on intial fire up. At least 20 intial, 40 total. There is no load so mo worry of detonation. So why you ask? Early timing keeps the exhaust cooler. Less chance to overheat and burn header coating.
Doug

 

[Don Frelier]

A couple other tips and reminders:
1. Have a hose and extinguisher nearby just in case of fire. (Use the hose first)
2. Do it outside if possible (smoke and fumes) don't get overly excited about some smoke it's normal
3. Watch carefully for leaks and keep an eye on the gauges
4. You can use a cell phone for a timer (and take video of course...)

 

[khryslerkid]

Have a helper there. Two sets of eyes are better than one.

If it's an automatic trans, try to get five quarts in it before start up. Have it in neutral so the converter fills up. The second it fires have your helper get the rest in there. Don't fool around and let the pump starve.

 

[Johnpat]

All above is good advice

 

[69a100]

Fresh motor start up check list!
http://www.moparts.org/Tech/Archive/motor/22.html

 

[Sonny]

Fresh motor start up check list!
http://www.moparts.org/Tech/Archive/motor/22.html

Great article. Should I remove the thermostat for break in? I live in Florida- do I even need one?

 

[khryslerkid]

Great article. Should I remove the thermostat for break in? I live in Florida- do I even need one?

I didn't remove the T stat on mine when breaking the cam in. I had a 180* with a 1/8 hole drilled in the flat area for coolant to bleed through. Just watch the coolant (distilled water) level as it warms up. You can remove it if you want.

 

[69a100]

Great article. Should I remove the thermostat for break in? I live in Florida- do I even need one?

What does the FSM say about that???? Put the F-er in!