LS376/525 break in

[77tony]

Bought a new FI LS376/525 crate motor about 16 months ago. Engine has been sitting on a stand (indoors) and has been upside down a few times putting while installing a custom pan, etc. There was a small amount of oil from the factory that leaked out. 1) Does GM Perf run these engines before shipping ? 2) Is it neccessary to take off the valve covers and spray with a little oil before starting up for the 1st time ? I will be adding 12 oz of break in fluid along with the recommended Mobil 1 5-30. Any suggestions before firing up would be appreciated. T

[csouth]

Should be in LSX forum for best results. Ask a mod to move it for you.

[andrewb70]

If it was me, I would turn the key and fire it up.

Andrew

[srh3trinity]

Isn't there a pump type system to pressurize the system since you can't pull the distributor and pressurize it? I have heard you can lose a fair amount of bearing life if you don't treat it right the first few startups

[sjaroslo]

Not saying that this is the best or only way to do it, it just comes directly from Chevrolet....

From the Good Book (Chevrolet Performance LS Series Crate Engine Control System):

Oil System Prime: a. The engine should be primed with oil before starting. Install an oil pressure gauge (the existing oil pressure sensor location at the upper rear of the engine may be used) and disconnect the engine control system (removing power from the engine control module is generally recommended).
NOTE: Disconnecting only ignition or fuel injector connectors is not recommended – make sure the control system will not provide ignition or fuel to the engine.
b. Once the engine control system has been disconnected, crank the engine using the starter for 10 seconds and check for oil pressure. If no pressure is indicated, wait 30 seconds and crank again for 10 seconds. Repeat this process until oil pressure is indicated on the gauge.
3. Initial Engine Start: Reconnect the engine control system. Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises. If no unusual noises are noted, run the engine at approximately 1000 RPM until normal operating temperature is reached.
4. Engine Warm Up Recommendation: When possible, you should always allow the engine to warm up prior to driving. It is a good practice to allow the oil sump and water temperature to reach 180°F before towing heavy loads or performing hard acceleration runs.
5. First 30 Mile Break-In Period: The engine should be driven at varying loads and conditions for the first 30 miles or one hour without wide open throttle (WOT) or sustained high RPM accelerations.
6. Medium Accelerations for Break-In: Run five or six medium throttle (50%) accelerations to about 4000 RPM and back to idle (0% throttle) in gear.
7. Hard Accelerations for Break-In: Run two or three hard throttle (WOT 100%) accelerations to about 4000 RPM and back to idle (0% throttle) in gear.
8. Change the Oil and Filter: Replace the oil per the specification in step 1, and replace the filter with a new PF48 AC Delco oil filter. Inspect the oil and the oil filter for any foreign particles to ensure that the engine is functioning properly.
9. 500 Mile Break-In Period: Drive the next 500 miles (12 to 15 engine hours) under normal conditions. Do not run the engine at its maximum rated engine speed. Also, do not expose the engine to extended periods of high load.
10. Change the Oil and Filter after 500 Mile Break-In: Again, inspect the oil and oil filter for any foreign particles to ensure that the engine is functioning properly.

[77tony]

My mistake, should have started this thead in the LSX or Engine Misc forum. Thanks to all for the tips. T

[AMSOILGUY]

After that's all said and done shop for oil. Use the best available and you will have many happy years.