Two dumb engine questions today

[Doug&Deb]

I’m getting close to finishing my engine. Two questions. First do I need to do anything to the new water pump before installing it? I’ve heard about sealing it but I’m not sure what that involves. Second when starting the engine the first time should there be water or coolant in it or should the initial start up be dry? When I do add coolant do I first pour some into the thermostat opening or just fill the radiator and let the system do its job? Thanks in advance.

[Dave72dt]

If you just want to hear it start and run for few seconds and you don't have a radiator installed, dry is fine.  Preferred is with coolant.  I prefer initial start using water only.   Save the antifreeze until you have verified no leaks.   For engines that have a temperature probe, I leave the gland nut a bit loose when filling the system to bleed any air out of the block tighten when water or antifreeze starts to seep out.

[Saskwatch]

Following this post with interest Doug & Deb. Please keep us posted how you make out ok? ?

[Los_Control]

Will throw in my 2 cents. Only rebuilt engines I have dealt with in the past, I had a shop R&R the engines & they did the initial startup.

Listening to other mechanics for example Nicks garage on youtube builds high end mopar muscle cars.

 

The ideal startup on a fresh rebuild, you want to double check everything. TDC, timing, points, wiring .... you want the engine to start right away.

You do not want to turn it over for 15 minutes to find out the distributor is in 180 out or the firing order on the wires is wrong.

You have all the assembly lube getting wiped off by just turning it over without proper oil pressure.

 

Then when it is started, you have the cam to break in, the rings are getting seated .... you want the first start to run for about 20 minutes for everything to get settled.

Then you would want to change the oil before the next start. ...... You want a cooling system hooked up for the first start.

 

Too me that would be the ideal perfect first start, that gives your new engine the best chance to survive.

It is not a perfect world, not all first starts go the way we want them ..... and it works out fine anyways.

[DJK]

Google proper engine break in procedure, your engine will thank you and give you many miles of enjoyment.