any thoughts on breaking in a newly rebuilt engine? i've got my own ideas of course, based on practically zero personal experience, and so am not looking for affirmation WRT mine.

will be getting my rebuilt engine/trans back soon and rebuilder found out i may be driving it 1000 miles home and he was surprised and somewhat concerned. i imagine i'll be getting all kinds of things to do and don't do from him, but my guess is that i will find plenty of contrary recommendations when i start perusing the internet forums. i'll be and am looking for general recommendations for all engines, for vintage engines and for vintage jag engines, etc. thanks

 

From what I've read, don't use synthetic oil, or even a mix for the first 500 miles.
My machinist said after many engines done "just drive it sensibly, don't rev the **** out of it, don't lug it, and don't let it idle in the drive way when cold".

Machining practices and equipment have come a long way, so it's not like the old days where you have to increase and decrease speed going down the highway with out going over 50mph.

It will run hot at first, so no stop and go traffic _ don't sit in line at Star Bucks'

 

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/m...engine-263052/

 

^^^^ ace advice.

Plus, as it's far from home, I'd be inclined against returning immediately. Pass a few hours not far from the machine shop and put at least 20 or 30 shake down miles on the car before starting the return journey. Watch the oil pressure, water temperature, inspect for leaks, does the engine pull and sound as you'd expect ... . Even the best shop can leave something not quite right, a leak or some odd noise develops. Hopefully, the boss of the shop will have run the car for a few miles, but you still need to do some yourself and be confident that everything seems to be correct.

 

thanks for the info!

and yes, i plan on hanging around near the shop for a day or two doing day rides of several hours. if for nothing other than the convenience of taking the car (if mobile) back to the rebuilder for maintenance if necessary. ha!