The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 235 6 cyl, ran 3 min, siezed

Glad to hear you discovered the problem...sorry to hear you've had to go through so much turmoil to get your engine cranked.

A couple things I've noted on the intitial cranking of a rebuild.....first of all....and probably most critical, especially when running in a flat tappet cam, is to make sure that the engine is ready to run for at least 10-15 continuous minutes while you monitor oil pressure and engine temperature carefully. Overheating during run-in can cause you all kinds of grief!

This means that the block should be full of water. By removing the thermostat, adding coolant, and then reinstalling, you can make sure that it isn't going to need "burping". Get your static timing set and make sure you have fire to the plugs. Save the new HEI and dual carbs for after you get your initial run-in completed. I like to crank a rebuild, with a carb that I know is working well and a tried and true fuel pump. A new fuel pump, carb, plugs and points aren't a guarantee that it will run! Pre-oiling and observing oil from the top of the engine is a must. Once you've got the initial run-in, you can fine tune timing, carbs and fix the little glitches that pop up. Taking a little extra time BEFORE you throw the fire to it, will pay off over the life of the engine.

To me, letting a fresh rebuild sit for a month or two isn't a real great idea. Why not plan your project where you get all your ducks in a row with the body and running gear and then schedule your engine rebuild so that it can be dropped in immediately after the rebuild and you'll be ready to roll. This has worked well for me, maybe it might be something to consider on your next project. That's just my $.03!!!

Dave