Now that the engine is installed and every wire and hose is properly connected, go back and double check that all coolant and vacuum hoses are connected. Check that your oil drain plug is installed and properly tightened. If not already done, install a new oil filter onto the engine.
- Fill the crankcase with the proper quantity and grade of engine oil
- Fill the cooling system with a 50/50 mixture of coolant/water
- Connect the vehicle battery
- Disable the ignition and crank the engine to develop oil pressure. Keep your eye on your oil pressure indicator; if no oil pressure is developed within 10 seconds stop
WARNING
Damage to the engine can result if it is allowed to run with no oil pressure. Check the engine oil level to make sure that it is full. Check for any leaks and if found, repair the leaks before continuing. If there is still no indication of oil pressure, you may need to prime the system.
- Confirm that there are no fluid leaks (oil or other)
- Start the engine and maintain an idle of 2500 RPM for a period of 20 minutes to properly break-in the cam and lifters
- Allow the engine to reach normal operating temperature (the upper radiator hose will be hot to the touch)
- At this point you can perform any necessary checks or adjustments, such as checking the ignition timing
- Install any remaining components or body panels that were removed
