Break in th350?? Oil

[Myles]

Hey guys,

So my 81malibu is ready for cam break in tomorrow morning, after almost a year working on it part part time!
(Yes, Monday when everyone's at work)

How much oil / when to add oil to my th350? The entire car is a fresh build.

Th350 fresh with rebestus clutches and upgraded sprag. Stage 2 transgo kit. Builder claims good for 450hp repeated wippings.

8" custom built stall 42-4500. I could barely add any oil during install without loosing it all, it's pretty tiny. Medium sized transmission cooler up front.

We will be 1 guy on timing gun and throttle and 1 guy checking everything else as everythings be changed.

What's a good starting point, a few quarts?

Thanks guys
Myles

 

[DRIVEN]

According to TCI, total should be about 6qts. http://www.tciauto.com/tc/fluid-capacity/

 

[lilbowtie]

First get a friend to help you - too much going on. With an 8in converter, start out with at least 6 quarts. I assume it is a flat tappet to be breaking it in so have good oil w/zinc. Static time the car so you get a quick start and get the RPMS up. While your friend keeps the rpms around 3000 check the timing - 34 to 36 @ 3000 w/o vac. It's all eyes and ears during break-in - watch temp and oil pr. Once done top off all your fluids, add the center valve springs if you have a big cam and your done.

 

[lilbowtie]

How did the break-in go ??

 

[Myles]

The break in went well! Thanks for all your help.

No leaks, nothing. I think I love solid cams now, lol. And with those 215cc heads, feels like theres no redline haaha

Just have to change the thermostate,
Might try a 160. Its maybe only 375hp with a big 4core and electric pump.