New GM crate engine, instructions not included.

[Johnny Blaze]

So, I dropped $1500 plus freight for a new GM crate engine for my daily driver.

I expected to take off the crate and find an owners manual.

You know, Timing specifications, disclaimers,oil recommendations, break in procedure, all that.

Instead, there is a single sheet of paper that says , not to be used in taxi, police, lp, or exports.

Well, that got me to thinking, do I just plug it in and go?

So I look it up, and pace performance is kind enough to post a break in procedure for these engines. Stating not to break in on synthetic, that the flat tappet cam needs broken in, etc..


So, If I not found this, assumed the motor / cam had been broken in, then procedded to wipe out the cam, do you think GM would have warrentied it? I doubt it.

I just guess I was expecting to much for a $1500 purchase.

[JEFFTATE]

Which part # GM engine did you buy ??
The very basic GM Goodwrench crate engines are designed and intended to be installed by people in the industry ( like mechanics ).
They are kinda' like factory replacement engines.
So , the factory figures that the installer probably has a service manual for the vehicle that the engine is going in , and doesn't need instuctions.
( I don't agree with this , but that's the way it is.)
It's GM's way of cheaping out..

On the other hand , "some" of the GM Performance Parts engines come with detailed instructions , because they are for varied applications ..

All engines have the same recommended basic break-in procedure..regardless of manufacturer , or brand . Import or domestic.

[BonzoHansen]

^^What he said. But GMPP has a bunch of install info on their site

[482supersnake]

I've noticed that a lot of parts either don't come with any instruction or what they do come with is very poor quality.

[Johnny Blaze]

It was just the basic 260hp 350.

I did not expect much. But at least something saying, use this oil, camshaft must be broken in.

That could be very useful for a compete new engine.

[JEFFTATE]

You're exactly right about that.

Those GM Goodwrench 240-260hp "Target" engines are mass produced in Mexico.
They are of a "decent" quality.

I've got one them in my '69 Camaro.
But , I had some blueprinting work done on it.

Break it in with some good break-in oil ( from Brad Penn or Joe Gibbs ) or regular petroleum based oil with a quality break-in additive from Comp or Torco. ( somebody like that )

Those are good little engines , but since they are the cheapest solution GM offers , they don't come with much.
Trust me , I work at a Dealer , and I've got one in my car that I run the daylights out of.
I haven't blown it up yet.