Break in

[Tahoe 55]

Without an hour meter, how many outings do you think it would take to put 10 hours on the engine? If the engine is run at a higher RPM doesn't the hours rack up quicker?

 

[Chass]

Re: Break in

If you haven't found this article in your quest for information about engine break in, I would highly recommend reading it.

http://www.mototuneusa.com/break_in_secrets.htm

It contradicts much of what I thought I knew about engine break in. Basically, he says RUN IT HARD and then change the oil.

Hope that helps! I have sure changed my engine break in procedures.

Chass
ct

 

[Tahoe 55]

Re: Break in

Yeah, I've read that. I think one of the most important things in there is letting the cool engine oil spray on the hot pistons and rings on a long decel. With a boat there is no way of doing this. So you can't cool them down like you can on a normal loaded engine. I worry about the synthetic oil deal too. I know you shouldn't use it for break-in, but Merc calls for it. Maybe they come from the factory with Dino oil???? I'm going to call them and ask.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Break in

Without an hour meter, how many outings do you think it would take to put 10 hours on the engine? If the engine is run at a higher RPM doesn't the hours rack up quicker?

The hour meter is just a timer that measures the amount of time your ignition is on. RPM has no effect of the time on an hour meter.

 

[The Great Escape II]

Re: Break in

I would follow what Mercruiser states in their manual for the break-in procedure. You don't want to be in a situation with a voided warranty. If they do a reading on the ECM they will know the hours, RPM ranges etc..

 

[Tahoe 55]

Re: Break in

Yeah, I'm with you Joey, by the book.

I called Merc. talked to Tim and he said my 5.0 MPI came from the factory with 30 weight dino oil for break-in purposes. After the 1st 20 hours I should change it and run the Merc full synthetic 20w 40. He said if you want to change your oil before the 1st 20 hours, you should go back with a good 30 weight oil and change again at 20 total hours switching to full synthetic only at that time. I'm going to follow his advice.