How do I break in my flat tappet camshaft and lifters?

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How do I break in my flat tappet camshaft and lifters?

Editing Date：2024-11-18

Procedure

Breaking in an engine with a flat tappet camshaft is critical to its performance and long life. This mates the lifters to the cam lobes.

Most camshafts will come with specific break-in procedures. The following procedure could apply to any engine with a flat tappet cam. The specific instructions for your camshaft may vary slightly. Whenever possible, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Installation Tips

• Always use new lifters when installing a new flat tappet camshaft.
• Apply a coat of Assembly/Break-In Lube to:
•	Cam lobes,
•	Bottom of the lifters, and
•	Distributor gears.
• Use Break-In Oil.
• Do not "pump up" hydraulic lifters.
• Do not exceed Recommended Valve Spring Pressures.
•	Performance engines using high valve spring pressures should use a lighter set of springs for the break-in procedure.
•	If you have double or triple springs, remove the inner springs during the break-in procedure.
• If possible, break in the engine with the valve covers off. Watch the pushrods to make sure they are spinning.
	If they are not spinning, gently spin them with your fingers to start the process.

Procedure

1.	Install the Camshaft.
2.	Set the Valve Lash or Preload as recommended by the manufacturer.
3.	Prime the Oiling System.
4.	Set the Initial Ignition Timing.
5.	For carbureted engines, make sure fuel bowls are full and any air is bled from the fuel lines.
6.	Start the engine and immediately raise rpm to 3,000.
7.	Vary rpm between 1,500 and 3,000 for the next 20-30 minutes.
	a.	Use a slow, steady acceleration/deceleration pattern.
8.	Shut down the engine and let it cool.
9.	Drain the oil and change the oil filter.
	a.	This removes any metal particles from the break-in process.
10.	Refill the engine with break-in oil.

The initial break-in is now complete. After the next 500 miles of normal driving, change the oil and oil filter again.

•	If you choose a synthetic oil, we recommend putting about 5,000 miles on the camshaft with conventional oil before switching.