Engine break in & long drive?

[V8 Rumble]

Ok, so I am starting my engine tonight and the bottom end is new except for the cam which was in my other engine and already broken in.

How much of an effect would it have on the break in if taking it on a 4-5 hour drive during the first 500 miles? or have break in procedures changed in recent years due to improvements in parts?

Thanks,

Joe

 

[pontiacgp]

I wouldn't drive it higher than 60 mph and vary your speed for the first 500, then I'd change the oil and filter

 

[V8 Rumble]

I wouldn't want to go more than that with 3.73 and th350 but I will be on the highway with more consistent speeds though. This engine rebuild blew the money I had set for my 200-4R. The OD will have to wait till late this year or early next year.

 

[pontiacgp]

what about a rear gear change until you get the 200 4r

 

[V8 Rumble]

I've thought about that too. Much cheaper option. I am going all in and convincing the other half to get the od lol.

 

[350-G]

when you said the cam came out of another engine and is broke in,are you using the same lifters an put them back in the same hole they came out of? Or are u using new lifters?

 

[V8 Rumble]

when you said the cam came out of another engine and is broke in,are you using the same lifters an put them back in the same hole they came out of? Or are u using new lifters?

I am using the same cam and lifters. I marked the lifters when I took them out of the other engine to make sure they go on the right lobes.

 

[350-G]

Just thought i would ask

 

[Longroof79]

Joe,
I honestly don't think buzzing the engine for that many hours with 3.73 gears would be advisable. I agree with Steve, maybe consider a gear change until you're ready to put an OD trans in there. I remember having the 3.42 gears and TH350 combination....I hated it.
The 3.08's are a lot more tolerable with the TH350. I have taken a road trip from NY to Minnesota with that combination about 25 yrs ago, and it wasn't that bad.
On a fresh engine, I would vary the use before taking it on a long road trip. You don't want to be buzzing it at too high an RPM. Just my opinion.

 

[Blake442]

No guts, no glory!
Seriously though, I don't see a problem with it.
I would try and get at least 50 miles on it around town before you leave to give it a shake down.
And if you're worried about it, it's not hard to vary your speeds on the highway...
Make frequent stops for inspections and bring some tools just in case.
I say go for it!